Comforting White Chicken Chili: For Those Busy Days
Introduction
As the chilly weather settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of white chicken chili to comfort your soul. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken with creamy beans and zesty spices, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz diced green bell peppers
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground Coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lime, juice
- For Garnish:
- chopped cilantro
- shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- sour cream
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on the outside.
4. Add the white beans, green bell peppers, chicken broth, lime juice, cumin, oregano, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes.
5. Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to the pot. Stir in sour cream, heavy cream, cream cheese & cheddar cheese until melted..
Tips for Best Results
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer. For substitutions, use rotisserie chicken or swap sour cream for a dairy-free option.
Variations
This chili can also be adapted for slow cookers or Instant Pots for added convenience. Simply follow the same steps and adjust cooking times accordingly. To make a dairy-free version, skip the cheeses & heavy cream and use coconut cream instead.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of Pepper Jack cheese, and serve alongside Frito-Lay’s Chili Cheese corn chips, tortilla chips, or corn bread for a delightful meal.
Storage
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for future enjoyment!