Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili: Taste the Southwest!
Ever feel like a chili, but not that heavy, beefy sort? me too! that's when i reach for this creamy white bean chili recipe .
Honestly, this recipe's a game changer. it's got all the comfort of chili with a lighter, brighter vibe.
What's the Deal with White Bean Chili ?
Bean chili recipe isn't just some trendy thing. it's got roots in southwestern cuisine. it's a lighter take on classic chili, focusing on beans, chicken, and milder spices.
This particular white bean chili recipe is easy medium. it takes about 55 minutes total, prep and cook time included. this makes about 6 servings.
It's perfect for a family dinner or batch cooking for the week.
Why You'll Love This Chili Recipe Easy
First, it's healthy ish! packed with protein and fibre from the chicken and beans, it's surprisingly good for you. it's a total crowd pleaser too.
I love serving this when friends come over. what makes this chicken chili recipe special? it's the creamy texture and the subtle southwestern spice blend that's easy to adjust.
Creamy Goodness and Flavor
Creamy white bean chili gets its texture from the cannellini beans and a touch of heavy cream. but don't worry, you can swap that out if you like.
This easy white chili recipe has a satisfying thickness that's just perfect. it also hits all the right flavor notes.
This southwestern chili recipe is very delicious, and it's hard to resist! i once made a double batch for a potluck, and it vanished!
This white bean chili with chicken has a real story. i remember the first time i tried to make this i totally burned the garlic, and honestly it was a complete disaster.
But after few tries and a little patience, it become a top family recipe. i'm even thinking of trying a white bean chicken chili variation with different veggies soon.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This White Bean Chili Cookin'!
So, you fancy a go at my creamy white bean chicken chili ? ace choice! it's proper lush, and doesn't require a michelin star to pull off.
Honestly, i think a good chili recipe easy is essential for any brit kitchen. it’s a fantastic southwestern chili recipe that you’ll make time and time again.
Here's what you'll need.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
First off, the stuff that really matters. Pay attention to quality - it makes a difference.
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml) . Get a good extra virgin olive oil if you can, its worth it!
- Yellow onion: 1 large , chopped (approx. 150g ). It should be firm and not sprouting.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (approx. 6g ). Fresh is always best!
- Green bell pepper: 1 , chopped (approx. 120g ). Should be firm and vibrant.
- Jalapeno pepper: 1 , seeded and minced (approx. 10g ). Optional, for a kick!
- Chicken breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) , cubed. Buy good quality, free range if you can.
- Cumin: 1 tsp (5 ml) . Ground cumin works great
- Oregano: 1 tsp (5 ml) . Dried oregano
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) . Adds that extra oomph !
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) . Only if you like it hot!
- Chicken broth: 4 cups (950 ml) . Low sodium is your friend.
- Cannellini beans: 2 (15-ounce/425g) cans, rinsed. Quality beans, makes great White Bean Chili .
- Green chilies: 1 (4-ounce/113g) can, undrained. Don’t drain them
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . This adds the creamy touch.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup (60 ml) , chopped. For freshness.
Remember to check your measurements! white bean chili with chicken is all about balance. i used to just chuck everything in, but trust me, measuring makes a difference.
I even made a vegetarian version one time it was basically a bean chili recipe !
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life
These little fellas are crucial for maximum flavour.
- Cumin, oregano, chili powder: The essential Southwestern chili recipe trio.
- Cayenne: For that cheeky bit of heat. Sub with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Aromatics: Onion and garlic. Don't skip these, they're flavour builders!
If you're not keen on cilantro, parsley works in a pinch. I've even seen people use coriander. Oh my gosh. Don't forget to salt and pepper too. It makes all the difference.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make a White Bean Chicken Chili .
- Dutch oven: Or a big pot with a heavy bottom.
- Cutting board and knife: Obvious, innit?
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key.
- Ladle: For serving up the Creamy white bean chili .
If you don't have a dutch oven, any large pot will do. and if you haven't got measuring spoons, just wing it! honestly, sometimes i just eyeball it.
It’s all about having fun whilst making this chicken chili recipe . enjoy your easy white chili recipe !
Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili: A Hug in a Bowl
Fancy a chili recipe easy that's a bit different? forget the usual beefy concoction. let's talk about white bean chili ! honestly, this creamy white bean chicken chili is a game changer.
It's lighter, brighter, and packed with flavour. think sunshine in a bowl!
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First, get your ducks in a row. that means chopping your onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeno. dice the chicken into bite sized pieces.
Rinse and drain those cannellini beans. this is what the french call " mise en place " or "everything in its place".
Having this organized will make the cooking process so much smoother. trust me, it's worth the effort!
step-by-step to Chili Perfection
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how it’s done:
- Sauté the aromatics. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Cook 5- 7 minutes until softened.
- Brown the chicken and bloom those spices. Add chicken and cook until browned. Stir in 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano, 0.5 tsp chili powder, and 0.25 tsp cayenne. Cook for 1 minute.
- Simmer, simmer, simmer! Pour in 4 cups chicken broth, cannellini beans, and 1 (4-ounce) can of green chilies. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes .
- Creamy dream. Stir in 0.5 cup heavy cream and 0.25 cup cilantro. Season with salt and pepper. Heat through, but don't boil!
- Serve and enjoy your creamy Southwestern chili recipe !
Pro Tips and Tricks for Epic White Bean Chili
- Spice it up! The amount of jalapeno and cayenne is up to you. Add more to taste.
- Don’t boil after adding cream. Boiling can make it curdle. Nobody wants that!
- Rinse those beans! Rinsing removes starch and prevents gloopy chili.
Honestly, this easy white chili recipe is one of my go-to meals. it's super simple and satisfying. this bean chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser and the perfect dish on any day, don't you know? i made a similar dish for my friends a couple of years ago and they love it so much.
Try this white bean chili with chicken recipe out today, you might even love it too!
Recipe Notes for Your Perfect White Bean Chili
Right, so you're ready to tackle this absolutely banging white bean chili recipe ? fantastic! before you crack on, here are a few bits and bobs i've picked up along the way like those sneaky cooking tips your nan would never tell you, you know?
these will help you nail that white bean chili with chicken and make it your own.
Serving Up a Treat: Plating and Presentation
Honestly, presentation matters. even if it's just you shovelling it down in front of the telly! ladle your white bean chili into a rustic bowl for a homely vibe.
A swirl of sour cream (or greek yogurt if you're feeling virtuous). and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro? chef's kiss .
Sides, you say? how about some warm cornbread, perfect for dunking into the creamy bean chili recipe ? or a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a bit of crunch.
A simple green salad is a good shout, too. and don't forget a lime wedge for an extra bit of zing!
Storage Like a Pro
Leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken chili recipe actually tastes even better the next day.
- Fridge rules: Pop the white bean chicken chili into an airtight container and it'll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days . Sorted.
- Freezing for later: Fancy a creamy white bean chili hit in a few weeks? Freeze it! Again, airtight container is your friend. It'll be good for up to 3 months . When reheating, just make sure it's piping hot all the way through. Honestly, it's easy peasy.
Variations to Spice Things Up!
Fancy a change? Here are a few ideas to make it your own special chili recipe easy .
- Going veggie?: Ditch the chicken and chuck in some corn and sweet potatoes for a banging vegetarian option. That easy white chili recipe gets a whole new lease on life.
- Spice it up: Sub some of the chicken with cooked chorizo if you are looking for that Southwestern chili recipe kick to your white bean chili . Game changer, seriously!
Nutrition Gist
Okay, so i'm no nutritionist, but here's the basic idea. this white bean chili is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Each serving is roughly 420 calories. plus, it's a good source of vitamins and minerals. win-win!
Right, go on then, get cooking! Remember, cooking should be fun, so don't stress too much. Even if you mess up, it'll probably still taste alright. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this white bean chili vegetarian? I'm trying to cut down on meat like a good sport!
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian white bean chili, simply omit the chicken. To replace the body it provides you can add 1 (15-ounce) can of corn, drained, and 1 cup of chopped sweet potatoes for a bit of sweetness and texture. You might also consider adding some extra veggies like zucchini or squash.
My white bean chili is too thin! How do I thicken it up without using flour?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! An easy trick is to mash about 1/2 to 1 cup of the cannellini beans before adding them back into the chili. The mashed beans act as a natural thickening agent. Alternatively, you can simmer the chili uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
How long does white bean chili last in the fridge, and can I freeze it for later?
White bean chili will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. To freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
I want to spice things up a bit, what can I add to my white bean chicken chili to make it hotter?
Glad you're feeling adventurous! You can increase the amount of jalapeno pepper, keeping the seeds if you're feeling brave. A pinch (or more!) of cayenne pepper will also do the trick.
For an extra layer of flavour, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce - just a little goes a long way, mind!
Is white bean chili healthy? I'm trying to eat a bit better these days, you know?
Yes, it can be a very healthy option! White bean chili is packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and beans. These will keep you feeling full and satisfied. To keep it on the lighter side, use low-sodium chicken broth and consider swapping the heavy cream for half and-half or Greek yogurt.
Load up on the veggies, and you've got a winner!
I don't have cannellini beans. Can I substitute another type of bean in this white bean chili recipe?
Absolutely! Great Northern beans are an excellent substitute for cannellini beans as they have a similar creamy texture and mild flavour. Navy beans would also work in a pinch. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before adding them to the chili.
You can also experiment with other beans like butter beans, but the flavor profile will change slightly!
Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 420 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 8g |
