Cozy White Chili Chicken
Introduction
Cozy and Delicious: Dive Into White Chicken Chili
With the colder months creeping in and a desire for comfort food surging, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chili to lift both your spirits and your taste buds. This white chicken chili recipe truly delivers a bowl of pure joy! It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein—a perfect go-to dish for family dinners, easy lunches, or weekend meal prep. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this satisfying dish at home.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
A Flavor-Packed Combination
This white chili is vibrant yet soothing, thanks to the perfect balance of a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
• Chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken (about 1 pound, cooked and shredded)
• Chicken broth (4 cups)
• Cannellini beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• Diced green chilies (1 small can, optional for spice lovers)
• Yellow onion (1 medium, finely diced)
• Garlic cloves (3, minced)
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened)
• Heavy cream (half a cup)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
This combination ensures every bite is hearty, creamy, and bursting with flavor!
Prep Time
Quick and Easy Preparation
To prepare, you’ll need roughly 20 minutes of active prep time. Begin by gathering your fresh ingredients, measuring them, and having everything ready for cooking. Chop, dice, shred, and set aside until cooking begins. With the minimal chopping involved, this recipe is beginner-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
From Start to Finish
Once all ingredients are ready, you’ll spend around 30 minutes cooking. The total time, including prep, clocks in at about 50 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings, making it suitable for a small family meal or leftovers for the next day.
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This simple yet satisfying white chili recipe is bound to become a favorite in your recipe lineup. Warm bowls of comfort like this are more than just food; they’re memories in the making. So grab a spoon, gather loved ones, and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the jalapeño (if using). Rinse and drain the canned beans. Shred the rotisserie chicken or cook your chicken breasts if using fresh.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the sautéd vegetables with the spices. Allow to cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Beans
Pour chicken broth into the pot, followed by the rinsed and drained beans. Stir to combine everything. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Simmer
Add the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it thoroughly with the other ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and allow the chili to simmer for 20-25 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 6: Thicken the Chili
For a slightly thicker consistency, take about 1/3 of the chili and blend it using an immersion blender. Alternatively, transfer the portion to a regular blender, then stir it back into the pot.
Step 7: Add Creaminess
Stir in the cream or milk and cook for another 5-10 minutes over low heat to meld everything together. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the white chicken chili into bowls and top with your preferred garnishes—such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Note: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder to control the level of spiciness in your chili.
Note: Beans
This recipe typically uses white beans such as cannellini beans or great northern beans, but feel free to swap in other types if necessary.
Note: Make-ahead Option
This chili tastes even better the next day. Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy reheating.
Note: Freezing
White chicken chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Note: Thicker Consistency
If you prefer your chili on the thicker side, mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon or add a little cornstarch slurry.
Note: Substitutions
Feel free to use turkey instead of chicken, or substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing Aromatics
This step involves cooking onions and garlic in oil until they’re fragrant and softened. This builds the foundational flavors of the dish.
Cooking Chicken
The chicken is typically cooked thoroughly on medium heat to ensure tender and flavorful meat. Shredding or dicing adds texture to the chili.
Building the Base
Combining broth, cream, and seasonings creates the creamy base of the white chili.
Simmering
Letting the chili simmer allows the flavors to meld together and creates a thicker, more cohesive dish.
Finishing with Toppings
Adding fresh toppings such as cilantro or a squeeze of lime enhances the flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option if you want to save time. Simply shred it and add it to the chili.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut milk.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili can be made in advance and reheated. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen over time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, you can freeze the chili. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with white chicken chili?
It pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crusty bread roll. You can also garnish it with sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado slices.
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Conclusion
This cozy white chicken chili is warm, creamy, and absolutely comforting. It’s the perfect dish for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and a touch of heat makes it a recipe that everyone will love. Whether serving it for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Beef Chili
If you enjoy hearty dishes, try a classic beef chili for a meatier option. The robust flavors pair perfectly with cornbread or rice.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
For a lighter alternative, chicken tortilla soup provides a zesty, tangy twist with its blend of chicken, lime, and crispy tortilla strips.
Creamy Potato Soup
This rich and velvety soup is ideal for those who love comfort food. Add bacon, cheese, and green onions as delightful toppings.
Vegetarian Chili
For a plant-based option, vegetarian chili offers a medley of beans, tomatoes, and spices, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Pair your white chicken chili with a Mexican street corn salad for a vibrant side dish that balances creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors.
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