Oh, let me tell you about my go-to comfort food: Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili! This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want to snuggle up and savor something delicious. The creamy texture combined with the hearty white beans and tender chicken creates such a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! I love how the spices come together to create a cozy aroma that fills my kitchen. Trust me, once you try this chili, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too. It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about warming your heart, one spoonful at a time!
Ingredients for Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
How to Prepare Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
Preparing this Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili is a breeze, and I promise it’ll have your taste buds dancing! Start by heating up a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant—oh, that smell is heavenly!
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, along with the cumin and chili powder. Let those spices mingle for a minute to really bring out their flavors. Then, add the drained white beans and corn to the pot—mix it all up! Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You want it bubbling softly, so keep an eye on it for about 5 minutes.
After that, lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, watching as it transforms the chili into a creamy delight. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything blended beautifully. And just like that, your comforting chili is ready to be garnished with fresh cilantro before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
- Add 2 cans drained white beans and 1 cup corn; mix well.
- Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat and stir in 1 cup heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and heated through.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- It’s incredibly creamy, thanks to the heavy cream, which adds such a luxurious texture to each spoonful.
- The combination of tender chicken and hearty white beans creates a filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
- It’s easily customizable—feel free to tweak the spices or add your favorite veggies!
- The recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great option for everyone at the table.
- Leftovers store beautifully, making for quick and delicious lunches throughout the week.
- With every bite, you’ll experience that perfect balance of comfort and flavor that keeps you coming back for more!
Tips for Success with Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
To ensure your Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First off, don’t rush the sautéing of the onions and garlic; this step builds a flavorful base, so let them soften and become aromatic. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, make sure to shred it finely, as this helps it blend seamlessly into the chili.
Also, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste buds! If you like a little more heat, add extra chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. And don’t forget to taste as you go—seasoning is key! Lastly, if your chili gets too thick after simmering, just stir in a splash more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. These little adjustments can make a big difference, trust me!
Variations of Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
One of the best things about my Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili is how easily it adapts to your cravings! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try that will keep things exciting in your kitchen.
- Different Beans: Swap out the white beans for black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile. You could even mix beans for added texture!
- Spice it Up: If you love a kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot. It’ll bring some heat that pairs beautifully with the creaminess!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a burst of color and nutrients. They’ll add a lovely freshness to the chili.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a fragrant finish!
- Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a deep, smoky flavor that adds complexity to your chili.
- Cheesy Delight: For an extra indulgent twist, stir in some shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack just before serving. It melts into the chili and takes it to another level!
- Coconut Cream Swap: If you want to make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. It’ll give a unique flavor that’s just as comforting!
These variations not only enhance the flavor but also make it fun to play around with this recipe. I love how each twist brings its own vibe to the chili, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Just a little note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so think of these figures as a general guide rather than an exact science. With that said, here’s what you can expect per serving of my Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This chili is not only comforting but also packs a nice protein punch while keeping things gluten-free. It’s a hearty meal that’ll keep you satiated without weighing you down!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili, the sides can really elevate the experience! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement this cozy dish beautifully:
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are a must! They add the perfect contrast to the creamy chili. I love to dip them right into the bowl!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some freshly baked cornbread makes a delightful companion. It’s perfect for mopping up every last drop of that delicious chili.
- Simple Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the chili.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for some extra heartiness. It soaks up the flavors wonderfully!
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds a tangy creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spices in the chili.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices or guacamole not only add a lovely creaminess but also a boost of healthy fats!
These sides can really take your chili experience to the next level. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. Trust me, each bite will be a celebration of flavors!
FAQ About Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can save you some time, and it works just fine in this Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili. Just drain it well and shred it before adding it to the pot.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes! This chili is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even tastier!
Is this chili spicy?
It’s got a mild kick, but if you like more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or some diced jalapeños. You can customize the spice level to fit your taste.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll be good for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the texture won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream—it adds a unique twist!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients while keeping it delicious!
How do I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?
If your chili turns out a bit runny, you can let it simmer uncovered for a little longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash a few of the white beans and stir them back into the pot to thicken it up!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy white chicken chili recipe or this slow cooker chicken ramen recipe.
Print
Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili: 7 Heartwarming Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and creamy chili made with white beans and chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, and chili powder.
- Add the white beans and corn to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili, Chicken Chili, White Bean Chili