Description
White chicken chili delivers a nutritious twist on classic comfort food. Mexican-inspired spices and lean protein make this hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Warm bowls welcome hungry diners with robust flavors you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breast, diced
Beans and Vegetables:
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can green chilies
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 4 cups (946 milliliters) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat, gently sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce cubed chicken to the pot, cooking and stirring until exterior turns golden brown and edges become slightly crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
- Sprinkle cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the chicken, thoroughly coating and allowing spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, carefully adding white beans and chopped green chilies, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing heat to low and covering the pot to allow flavors to meld and develop depth, cooking for 22-25 minutes.
- Verify chicken is fully cooked by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F and beans are tender.
- Remove from heat and swirl in Greek yogurt, creating a velvety, creamy consistency that softens the chili’s spicy undertones.
- Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and zesty lime wedges for a bright, refreshing finish.
Notes
- Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for vegan or lactose-intolerant diners.
- Reduce cayenne pepper for a milder version or add extra for heat lovers who enjoy spicy dishes.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein and easier preparation with minimal fat content.
- Enhance nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach during the simmering process for increased fiber and vitamins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg