There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty chili to wrap you in comfort, especially on a chilly evening! My Green Chile White Chicken Chili brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and vibrant green chiles for a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and wholesome. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal that feels special. I remember the first time I made this chili; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in! Topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, it’s a bowl of happiness that warms the soul. Trust me, once you try this chili, it’ll be your new go-to comfort food!
Ingredients for Green Chile White Chicken Chili
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious Green Chile White Chicken Chili. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own for a fresh taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans: Make sure to drain and rinse them well to get rid of any canning liquid.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles: These add a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine!
- 1 tsp cumin: This spice gives the chili that warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: For that savory depth that garlic brings.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: A dash of onion flavor without the chopping hassle.
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adjust these to your taste!
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This will give your chicken a nice sauté.
- 1/2 cup corn (optional): Adds a sweet crunch if you like!
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving): This makes the perfect creamy topping.
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish): It adds a fresh touch and color!
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to a flavorful chili that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Green Chile White Chicken Chili
Making this Green Chile White Chicken Chili is a breeze, and I can’t wait for you to dive into the process! Here’s how to whip it up step-by-step:
- First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm to get that chicken sizzling!
- Next, add the 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken to the pot. Sauté it for about 2 minutes just to warm it through and let those flavors mingle.
- Now, it’s time to add the good stuff! Toss in 1 can of drained and rinsed white beans, 1 can of diced green chiles, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will start smelling incredible!
- If you’re using corn, go ahead and add 1/2 cup of corn during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
- Once everything is nice and warm, it’s time to serve! Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of 1/2 cup of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that fresh finish.
And there you have it—an easy, delicious chili that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Green Chile White Chicken Chili comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Packed: The combination of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and zesty green chiles creates a chili that’s bursting with flavor.
- Healthy Comfort Food: With lean protein and fiber-rich ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends!
Trust me, once you taste this chili, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Tips for Success
To make your Green Chile White Chicken Chili truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t be shy with the spices—if you love heat, feel free to add more diced green chiles or even a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch. Fresh ingredients always make a difference, so opt for high-quality chicken broth and fresh cilantro for garnish. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver; just shred it and you’re ready to go! Oh, and if you want a thicker chili, mash some of the white beans before adding them; it adds creaminess without needing extra ingredients. Lastly, let your chili sit for a few minutes after cooking—it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy every spoonful!
Variations of Green Chile White Chicken Chili
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Green Chile White Chicken Chili! One of my favorite variations is to add bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and color—just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. You could even stir in some spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients! For those who love a little more heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you want a smoky flavor, throw in some smoked paprika or even a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. And don’t forget about the toppings—switch up the sour cream with Greek yogurt or add some crumbled queso fresco for a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional information for a serving of my Green Chile White Chicken Chili. Each bowl contains approximately:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 2g, Unsaturated Fat: 5g)
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g (Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 1g)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
FAQ About Green Chile White Chicken Chili
Got questions about my Green Chile White Chicken Chili? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions:
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh chicken, just dice it and sauté it in the pot for about 5-7 minutes before adding the other ingredients. It’ll be delicious!
How can I make this chili spicier?
If you’re a spice lover, feel free to add more diced green chiles or even some jalapeños. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a great way to let those flavors develop!
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, cornbread, or even a simple green salad. You can also top it with avocado slices for a creamy touch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of my Green Chile White Chicken Chili is super easy and ensures you can enjoy it later! Just let the chili cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it’ll last for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your chili again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it’s a bit thick after being in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual servings—just cover it and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot. Easy-peasy!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my Green Chile White Chicken Chili, the right accompaniments can take your meal to the next level! I love serving it with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy chili. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, cornbread is a classic choice—its sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the chili. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette can brighten up the meal. And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of avocado slices, a handful of shredded cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate each bowl to new heights. Trust me, these little touches make all the difference, turning a cozy dinner into a truly memorable feast!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
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Green Chile White Chicken Chili: 5 Ways to Love It More
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful green chile white chicken chili.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup corn (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add cooked chicken and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add white beans, green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- If using, add corn and heat through.
- Serve hot, topped with sour cream and cilantro.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more green chiles.
- This dish can be made in a slow cooker for easier preparation.
- Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Green Chile White Chicken Chili, chili recipe, chicken chili, soup