Growing up, my grandma’s white chili chicken recipe was the stuff of legends. Whenever she’d whip up a big batch, the entire neighborhood would come over, drawn in by the incredible aroma wafting through the air. I can still remember watching her in the kitchen, carefully chopping vegetables and expertly seasoning the chicken with her secret blend of spices.
There was just something special about that white chili chicken recipe – the way the creamy broth complemented the tender chicken, the subtle heat that built with each bite, the comforting feeling it gave you on a chilly day. It was the kind of dish that brought people together, that made you feel right at home no matter where you were.
As I got older and started cooking on my own, I knew I had to learn how to make Grandma’s famous white chili chicken recipe. It took some trial and error, but eventually I cracked the code – and now, it’s the one dish I turn to whenever I need a little taste of nostalgia or want to impress guests. This white chili chicken recipe has truly become a go-to in my household, and I have a feeling it’s about to become one of your favorites too.
Table of Contents
Why This white chili chicken recipe Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect white chili chicken recipe
The secret to this white chili chicken recipe’s perfection lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Rather than relying on a heavy, tomato-based broth, we’re using a creamy, slightly spicy base that allows the chicken to truly shine. And by simmering the chicken in the broth for an extended period of time, you end up with incredibly tender, juicy pieces that practically melt in your mouth.
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White Chili Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Discover the secret to making a delicious and easy white chili chicken recipe in just 30 minutes. This comforting and creamy dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. – Add the cubed chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. – Stir in the white beans, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, coriander, and cayenne. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. – Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded.
5. – Serve the white chili chicken hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
Notes
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper. For a creamier texture, you can stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
But the real magic happens when you start layering in all the other elements – the earthy, fragrant spices, the crunchy vegetables, the bright pops of fresh cilantro. It’s a symphony of flavors and sensations that come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Trust me, once you try this white chili chicken recipe, you’ll be hooked.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and plump.
– White Beans: Creamy white beans like cannellini or navy beans help create that signature white chili base.
– Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth or stock works best to allow you to control the seasoning.
– Jalapeños: These add the perfect amount of subtle heat to the white chili chicken recipe.
– Spices: A blend of cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and chili powder brings lots of flavor.
– Onion and Garlic: The aromatic foundation that gives the white chili its depth.
– Cream Cheese: A touch of cream cheese makes the broth extra rich and creamy.
– Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the whole dish.
Step-by-Step white chili chicken recipe Instructions
Preparing Your white chili chicken recipe
This white chili chicken recipe is relatively simple to prepare, with just a handful of steps. It takes about an hour from start to finish, including the simmering time, and requires only basic kitchen equipment like a large pot or Dutch oven. Once you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, you’ll be well on your way to a cozy, comforting white chili feast.
1- Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté these aromatics in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant.
2- Next, add the diced jalapeños and cubed chicken breasts to the pot. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the center.
3- Pour in the chicken broth and white beans, then stir in the cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
4- Once the chicken is tender, stir in the cream cheese and continue cooking until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the broth. You’ll know it’s ready when the white chili has a rich, creamy consistency.
5- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
6- Ladle the white chili chicken into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Serve it up hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
– For an extra creamy texture, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to lightly mash some of the white beans against the side of the pot.
– If you like your white chili with a bit more kick, feel free to add an extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
– Customize the spice blend to your taste – you can use more or less of each spice, or experiment with different herbs and seasonings.
– Be patient during the simmering step – the longer the white chili chicken cooks, the more the flavors will develop and meld together.
Serving and Storing Your white chili chicken recipe
Perfect Pairings for white chili chicken recipe
This white chili chicken recipe is the perfect cozy, comforting meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Try serving it with a fresh green salad, some crusty bread for dipping, or a side of roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower. It also makes a great game day or tailgating dish, especially when topped with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover white chili chicken recipe will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well – simply let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for white chili chicken recipe
Creative white chili chicken recipe Variations
While this white chili chicken recipe is pretty perfect as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping out the chicken for shredded turkey or pork for a different protein. You can also experiment with different types of beans, like kidney or pinto, or add in extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, or zucchini. For a thicker, heartier chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot. And if you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, stir in a touch of honey or brown sugar.
Making white chili chicken recipe Diet-Friendly
To make this white chili chicken recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple swaps you can make. Use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese to cut down on the calories and fat. You can also omit the cream cheese altogether and use a bit of broth or milk to achieve a creamy texture. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use a gluten-free chicken broth. And for a low-carb or keto-friendly take, skip the beans and serve the white chili over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey will work just as well in this white chili chicken recipe. Just be sure to cook it through and break it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: To amp up the heat, you can add an extra jalapeño or two, or use a spicier variety like serrano or habanero peppers. You can also stir in a teaspoon or two of cayenne pepper or hot sauce at the end.
Q: Can I make this white chili chicken recipe in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, this recipe translates really well to the slow cooker! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Q: How can I reheat leftover white chili chicken?
A: Leftover white chili chicken reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. For the stovetop, simply place the chili in a saucepan and heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. In the microwave, transfer the chili to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until hot.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This white chili chicken recipe actually gets even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge, or freeze it for up to 3 months for longer-term storage.
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a big bowl of creamy, flavorful white chili chicken. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and brings people together, just like Grandma’s version did all those years ago. Now that you have this white chili chicken recipe in your arsenal, I have a feeling it’s about to become a go-to in your household too. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible white chili chicken recipe!
