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Healthy White Chicken Chili

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is a hearty yet lightened-up version of a classic dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts provides protein and structure
  • 1 small onion, diced adds a sweet flavor and moisture
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced enhances flavor with a pungent note
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil for sautéing and richness
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth base for moisture and flavor
  • 2 15 ounces cans great Northern beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed adds texture and protein
  • 2 cups corn adds sweetness and texture
  • 4 ounces can diced green chilies provides a mild heat
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin adds earthy depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano for herbal notes
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder adds warmth
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper provides subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances all flavors
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper adds a touch of spice
  • 1 small bunch cilantro, finely chopped freshness and flavor
  • 1/2 cup plain or Greek yogurt, fat 2%+ adds creaminess and tang
  • 1 lime juice of adds brightness and acidity
  • to taste Tortilla chips for crunch
  • to taste Avocado for creaminess and richness
  • to serve More yogurt
  • to serve Limes

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by preheating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding avocado oil to coat the bottom.
  • Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and diced onion, then sauté for about three minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Cooking

  • Sprinkle in the ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  • Mash one cup of the beans in a small bowl and add this mixture to the pot along with the chicken broth, remaining beans, corn, diced green chilies, and whole chicken breasts.
  • Cover the pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low-medium and simmer for about 20 minutes.
  • After simmering, carefully remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and return it to the pot with lime juice, chopped cilantro, and yogurt; stir to combine.

Notes

Use a Dutch oven for better heat retention, rinse the beans to remove excess sodium, and taste as you adjust seasonings.
Keyword Chicken Chili, comfort food, Easy Recipes, family dinner, Healthy Chili