Introduction
If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal, this creamy white chicken chili is sure to satisfy. Packed with flavor and topped with crispy tater tots, it’s a delightful twist on traditional chili. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hearty dish, this recipe is simple and uses everyday ingredients that come together to create a delicious bowl of warmth.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 1 tablespoon avocado oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Two 4-ounce cans diced green chiles
– 1½ teaspoons salt
– 1½ teaspoons cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– One 15-ounce can white beans (such as white chili beans or great northern beans)
– 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast)
– 3 cups chicken broth
– ½ cup sour cream
– ¼ to ½ cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Tater Tots
Cook the frozen seasoned tater tots according to the package instructions. This typically takes 20-30 minutes, so it’s advisable to start this step first.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5-10 minutes.
Add Spices and Chiles
Stir in the diced green chiles, salt, cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add the white beans, shredded chicken, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and the cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water). Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook until the soup has slightly thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve
Ladle the creamy white chicken chili into bowls. Top each serving with a generous portion of the cooked tater tots. Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onion, and add a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Notes
Cooking Time
Ensure that you monitor the cooking time for the tater tots, as different brands may vary slightly in cooking instructions.
Aromatics
Sauté the onion and garlic until soft for the best flavor enhancement in the soup.
Spice Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences, adding more cumin or hot sauce if desired.
Thickening the Soup
The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the soup; ensure it is mixed well before adding to avoid clumps.
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. This technique is used to soften aromatics like onion and garlic, enhancing their flavors before adding other ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking method where ingredients are cooked in liquid at a temperature slightly below boiling. This allows flavors to meld together and for the soup to thicken gradually without burning.
Thickening with Cornstarch
Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent. It should be mixed with an equal amount of water to create a slurry before being added to hot liquids to prevent clumping.
Garnishing
Garnishing adds visuals and extra flavor to a dish. Common toppings like chopped herbs, green onions, and hot sauce can elevate the presentation and taste of the soup.
Cooking Frozen Ingredients
When cooking frozen ingredients like tater tots, refer to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary. Cooking them until crispy enhances their texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter option, although the texture may differ slightly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase spiciness, you can add more diced green chiles or a splash of your favorite hot sauce during the cooking process.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, to make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy white chicken chili topped with seasoned tater tots is a wonderful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and creamy broth creates a satisfying and comforting meal. Adding crispy tater tots not only enhances the dish but also brings a delightful crunch, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Spicy Taco Soup
Swap the white beans for black beans and add corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasonings. Top with tortilla chips and avocado.
Chili Verde
Use pork instead of chicken and incorporate tomatillos for a zesty green chili. Serve with crushed tortilla chips and a dollop of crema.
Vegetable Cream Soup
Replace chicken with mixed vegetables and adjust the broth accordingly. Add herbs like thyme and rosemary for extra flavor, and serve with crusty bread.
Buffalo Chicken Soup
Incorporate buffalo sauce into the soup for a spicy twist. Top with blue cheese crumbles and celery for a buffalo-style experience.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Transform it into a casserole by layering the chili with cooked rice and cheddar cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden on top.
Nacho Chicken Chili
Serve the chili over tortilla chips, add melted cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole for a loaded nacho experience.
