Introduction
Creating a delicious and hearty chili can elevate any gathering, and this chicken and white bean chili recipe is sure to impress. With a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy textures, this dish is comforting and satisfying. Ideal for chilly evenings or entertaining friends and family, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with a variety of toppings. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delightful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 onions, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (1 carton)
62 ounces great northern white beans, fully drained and rinsed (4 cans of 15.5 ounces each)
12 ounces diced green chiles, drained (3 cans of 4 ounces each)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, cubed
1 cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings:
Tortilla chips or strips
Jalapeños
Cilantro
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Avocado
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Enjoy preparing and serving this rich and flavorful chicken and white bean chili, perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a 6-quart Dutch oven or stock pot, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil and lime juice over medium-high heat until the onions are fragrant and translucent.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken, chicken broth, drained beans, diced green chiles, kosher salt, ground black pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and chopped fresh cilantro. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, or until the chili reaches your desired thickness, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream
Turn off the heat and stir in the cubed cream cheese until it melts and fully incorporates into the chili. Then, stir in the heavy cream.
Step 4: Serve and Add Toppings
Serve the chili hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings such as tortilla chips, jalapeños, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Spice Level Adjustment
You can adjust the level of heat by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper or adding more based on your preference.
Cream Cheese Tip
To ensure that the cream cheese melts smoothly, it’s best to cube it into smaller pieces before stirring it into the chili.
Additional Flavor
For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika when combining the ingredients.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where ingredients are cooked quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, diced onions and minced garlic are sautéed in olive oil and lime juice until fragrant and translucent.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature. In this chili recipe, after the mixture comes to a boil, it is reduced to a simmer to allow the flavors to meld and thicken the dish. Stirring occasionally ensures even cooking.
Incorporating
Incorporating is the technique of blending ingredients together until smooth. After turning off the heat, cubed cream cheese is stirred into the chili until it melts, followed by the addition of heavy cream for a creamy texture.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but you’ll need to cook it first before adding it to the chili.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut cream, or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the texture and richness may vary.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
How can I make the chili spicier?
To increase the spiciness, add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or include fresh chopped jalapeños in the mixture.
What are some good topping options for the chili?
Some great toppings include tortilla chips, jalapeños, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This creamy white chicken chili is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices. The addition of cream cheese and heavy cream adds richness, making it a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings to enhance the experience, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
More recipe suggestions and combinations
Vegetarian White Bean Chili
Replace cooked chicken with extra beans, using the same spices and base for a hearty vegetarian option.
Chicken and Quinoa Chili
Add cooked quinoa to the chili for an extra protein boost and added texture.
Spicy Southwest Chicken Soup
Increase the cayenne pepper and add corn for a spicier, more southwestern flavor profile.
Creamy Tortilla Soup
Blend in some tomato puree and top with crispy tortilla strips and avocado for a flavorful twist.
White Bean and Spinach Chili
Stir in fresh spinach leaves before serving for added color and nutrients.
Chipotle Chicken Chili
Incorporate chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Cilantro-Lime Chicken Soup
Enhance lime flavor by adding more lime juice and fresh lime zest right before serving.
Slow Cooker Version
Prepare the chili in a slow cooker for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Chili Stuffed Peppers
Use the finished chili to stuff bell peppers and bake for a fun and visually appealing dish.
White Chicken Enchiladas
Use the chili mixture as a filling for corn tortillas, top with cheese, and bake for delicious enchiladas.
