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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili recipe image
This hearty White Chicken Chili is a comforting American favorite that balances mild heat with creamy richness. Unlike traditional red chilis, this version uses white beans and green chiles for a lighter, tangier profile. The chicken breasts simmer until fork-tender, then shred easily into the broth, ensuring every spoonful is packed with protein. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and cumin build a deep flavor base, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish right before serving. Its perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or feeding a crowd. Serve it hot with crushed tortilla chips and shredded Monterey Jack cheese for the ultimate texture contrast. This recipe is simple to make with pantry staples and delivers a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 8
Calories: 380.6
Description
This hearty White Chicken Chili is a comforting American favorite that balances mild heat with creamy richness. Unlike traditional red chilis, this version uses white beans and green chiles for a lighter, tangier profile. The chicken breasts simmer until fork-tender, then shred easily into the broth, ensuring every spoonful is packed with protein. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and cumin build a deep flavor base, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish right before serving. Its perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or feeding a crowd. Serve it hot with crushed tortilla chips and shredded Monterey Jack cheese for the ultimate texture contrast. This recipe is simple to make with pantry staples and delivers a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin seed
  • 4 Chicken Breasts without skin
  • 1 cloves Garlic; chopped finely
  • 1 cup Onion
  • 16 ounce Green chiles; undraned
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 3 tablespoon Lime juice
  • 28 ounce Great northern beans; undrai
  • 2/3 cup Tortilla chips; crushed
  • 2/3 cup Fat-free monterey jack chees
Directions
  1. 1
    In a large pot, combine chicken breasts, water or broth, lemon pepper, and whole cumin seeds.
  2. 2
    Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  3. 3
    Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until chicken is fork-tender and juices run clear.
  4. 4
    Remove chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
  5. 5
    Discard the whole cumin seeds from the broth.
  6. 6
    Shred the cooked chicken into small pieces using two forks.
  7. 7
    In a separate skillet, saut minced garlic in a little oil or cooking spray for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. 8
    Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until tender.
  9. 9
    Return the chicken broth to the large pot and add the shredded chicken.
  10. 10
    Add the sauted onion and garlic, green chiles, ground cumin, and lime juice to the pot.
  11. 11
    Stir in the drained great northern beans.
  12. 12
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to blend flavors.
  13. 13
    Ladle hot chili into bowls, topping each with crushed tortilla chips and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 380.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18.1g28%
Saturated Fat 9.1g46%
Cholesterol 34.8mg12%
Sodium 285.1mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 47.8g16%
Dietary Fiber 11.1g45%
Sugars 13.5g
Protein 11.0g22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Substitutions: You can use canned rotisserie chicken to save time. Swap great northern beans for cannellini or navy beans. Use regular Monterey Jack if fat-free is unavailable.

Tip: For a creamier texture, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the very end of cooking.

Safety: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) before serving.

Variation: Add diced jalapeos for extra heat or a can of corn for added sweetness and texture.

Keywords: white chili, chicken chili, green chiles, great northern beans, cumin, monterey jack, tortilla chips, lime juice, comfort food, american cuisine, warm soup, protein rich, family dinner, easy recipe, slow cooker, stovetop, spicy, savory, winter meal, meal prep
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/white-chicken-chili/