White Chicken Chili Recipe
When it comes to comforting meals that satisfy both the palate and the soul, White Chicken Chili stands out as a beloved classic. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and a flavorful broth infused with spices to create a bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or looking for a dish to impress at a potluck, this White Chicken Chili recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (from rotisserie chicken or cooked at home)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Sliced avocado, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream, for garnish (optional)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle ground cumin, dried oregano, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the onion mixture. Stir well to coat the aromatics with the spices.
- Simmer Broth and Beans: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the drained and rinsed white beans. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Chicken and Corn: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and frozen corn kernels. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the chili is heated through and the corn is tender.
- Finish with Cream and Herbs: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or sour cream) until incorporated. Add chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the White Chicken Chili into bowls. Garnish with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and additional cilantro if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips on the side for dipping and crunch.
Tips for Success:
- Make it Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Customize Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the chili before adding the chicken and corn.
Conclusion:
White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken, beans, and spices in a creamy broth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a gathering with friends, this recipe promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a delightful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Try this recipe and discover why White Chicken Chili is a perennial favorite among chili enthusiasts everywhere.