Let me tell you, if you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down, this Healthy White Chicken Chili is your new best friend! I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly evening, and I needed something warm and comforting. I whipped up this chili, and wow, the creamy texture from the Greek yogurt had me hooked! It’s such a smart swap for heavy creams, giving you that luscious mouthfeel without the extra calories. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and beans, making it a fulfilling choice for any night of the week. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how it keeps well, too. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Healthy White Chicken Chili. I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward!
- 1 lb chicken breast – Make sure it’s cooked and shredded. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach it quickly!
- 1 can white beans – Drain and rinse them well. This helps reduce sodium and gives a fresher taste.
- 1 can corn – Also drain this one! Sweet corn adds a lovely pop of flavor and texture.
- 1 onion – Dice it finely. This is your flavor base, so don’t skip this step!
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced garlic really amps up the taste. Feel free to use more if you’re a garlic lover like me!
- 2 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. It adds depth to the chili.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – This is the secret ingredient for creaminess! It’s a healthier alternative to sour cream.
- 1 tsp cumin – This spice gives your chili that warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder – Adjust this based on how spicy you like it! It really brings the heat.
- Salt and pepper – To taste. Always taste as you go to get it just right!
How to Prepare Healthy White Chicken Chili (Greek yogurt)
Now let’s dive into making this fabulous Healthy White Chicken Chili! It’s a breeze, and I promise you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of flavor for your chili. In a large pot, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat, then toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft. The aroma will be heavenly—trust me, you’ll know they’re ready when they smell sweet and fragrant!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your onions and garlic are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to combine all the goodness! Add your cooked and shredded chicken, drained white beans, corn, and chicken broth to the pot. Sprinkle in your cumin and chili powder, and give everything a gentle stir. Make sure all the ingredients are well distributed—this way, every spoonful is packed with flavor!
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Now comes the magic of simmering! Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. You’ll know it’s done when everything is warmed through and the chili has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Stir in Greek Yogurt
Here’s where the creaminess comes into play! Once your chili is ready, remove it from heat and gently stir in the Greek yogurt until it’s fully combined. This step is key to achieving that rich, velvety texture without the extra fat. To avoid clumping, I like to add a spoonful of the chili to the yogurt first, mix it well, and then stir that back into the pot—this smooths everything out nicely!
Step 5: Seasoning
Finally, it’s time to taste and adjust! Add salt and pepper to your liking, and don’t be shy—seasoning is everything. If you want to elevate the dish even more, top your chili with fresh cilantro or creamy avocado slices just before serving. Yum!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the numbers, I want to remind you that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, while I’m sharing some typical values here, they’re just estimates and a great starting point for your dietary needs!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep these values in mind as you enjoy your Healthy White Chicken Chili, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to better suit your tastes and dietary goals!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy Twist: With Greek yogurt replacing heavy cream, you get a creamy texture without the guilt—it’s low in fat but high in flavor!
- Protein-Packed: Each serving is loaded with lean protein from the chicken and beans, keeping you satisfied and energized.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This chili holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep for the week.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust spices or add your favorite toppings to make it your own—it’s all about what you love!
Tips for Success
Here are some pro tips to make sure your Healthy White Chicken Chili turns out absolutely amazing! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference.
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best flavor and texture. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, make sure it’s not overly seasoned, so the chili flavors shine through.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and onions. They add a depth of flavor that dried or powdered versions just can’t match!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. This step is crucial for building flavor, so let them get soft and fragrant before moving on.
- Adjust the Spices: Everyone has different heat preferences. Start with the recommended spices, but feel free to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier!
- Simmer Low and Slow: Keep the heat low while simmering to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix in the Yogurt Gently: When you add the Greek yogurt, do it off the heat to keep it from curdling. Stir it in slowly and evenly for that creamy texture we all love.
- Taste As You Go: Always taste your chili as you cook! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. A little tweak here and there can elevate your dish to perfection.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, let the chili cool before storing it in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within three days!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious, healthy white chicken chili that everyone will rave about!
Variations
One of the best things about this Healthy White Chicken Chili is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or to use up what’s in your fridge! Here are some fun and accessible variations to consider:
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even chopped spinach for a nutritional boost. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies!
- Switch Up the Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using shredded turkey or even canned tuna for a different take. For a vegetarian option, swap in extra beans or lentils instead!
- Spice It Up: Want more heat? Try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can take your chili to the next level. Add a handful of chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Try Different Beans: While white beans are a classic, feel free to mix it up with black beans or chickpeas for added flavor and texture.
- Cheesy Goodness: For a bit of indulgence, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving. It’ll melt into the warm chili and add a delicious creaminess!
- Make It Creamier: If you want an extra creamy texture, replace some of the Greek yogurt with a splash of coconut milk or add a bit of cream cheese.
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative with whatever ingredients you love or have on hand. That’s the beauty of cooking—make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Healthy White Chicken Chili is a breeze, and it keeps well for those busy days ahead! After you’ve enjoyed your delicious bowl, let any leftovers cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the chili into an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it if you’re a meal prep enthusiast like me!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple! You can either warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you’re using the stovetop, pour the chili into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the flavor and texture—plus, it gives you a chance to check the seasoning again!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine! Just transfer the chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on it, though—nobody wants a chili explosion in their microwave!
And if you happen to have a larger batch that you want to save for longer, you can freeze it! Simply let it cool, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Easy peasy!
Leave Your Feedback
I’d love to hear from you! If you try this Healthy White Chicken Chili, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Did you make any fun variations? What toppings did you choose? Sharing your experiences not only makes my day but also helps others in our cooking community find inspiration!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to give it a rating! Your feedback means the world to me and helps others find this delicious dish. Let’s keep the conversation going—feel free to ask any questions or share your tips for making this chili even better. Happy cooking, friends!
For more healthy recipes, check out this healthy cheesecake recipe or another variation of white chicken chili.
Print
Healthy White Chicken Chili (Greek yogurt) for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy take on classic white chicken chili using Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add cooked chicken, white beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in Greek yogurt until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Top with fresh cilantro or avocado, if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Healthy White Chicken Chili, Greek yogurt, low fat, soup, chicken chili