White Chicken Chili: Best Cozy Dinner for Busy Nights
Introduction
Ah, mes amis! Today, we’re diving into the warm, comforting world of White Chicken Chili. This delightful dish is a perfect blend of creamy textures and bold flavors, ideal for those chilly evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. As a chef who’s traversed the globe, I can assure you that this recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why is it Perfect for You?
In our fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a nutritious, delicious meal can be challenging. That’s where Easy recipes like this White Chicken Chili shine. It’s a quick dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. This creamy chili is not only a healthy recipe but also a gluten-free meal, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients List
◾ 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
◾ 1 medium onion, chopped
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
◾ 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
◾ 1 tsp ground cumin
◾ 1 tsp dried oregano
◾ 1/2 tsp white pepper
◾ 1/4 cup heavy cream
◾ Salt to taste
◾ Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its aromatic oils.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, stirring occasionally. This step usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Beans and Spices
Now, it’s time to add the white beans, green chilies, cumin, oregano, and white pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and coat the chicken and beans with the spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through completely.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information
This White Chicken Chili is packed with protein from the chicken and beans, making it a nutritious choice for a healthy recipe. It’s also rich in fiber and various vitamins and minerals.
Calories per Person
Each serving of this White Chicken Chili contains approximately 320 calories.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this dish even healthier, consider using low-fat cream instead of heavy cream. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chili with a side of whole grain tortilla chips, a sprinkle of low-fat cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein. A fresh green salad also complements this dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing this White Chicken Chili, avoid overcooking the chicken as it can become tough. Also, be careful not to add too much salt, as the canned ingredients often contain sodium.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This chili stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients except the cream to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more green chilies or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer it spicier.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it when you put in the beans and spices.
Conclusion
This White Chicken Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a versatile dish that adapts to your needs. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to delight your taste buds with this creamy, flavorful chili. Bon appétit!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
