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White Bean and Chicken Chili

A comforting bowl of chili that combines tender chicken with creamy white beans and flavorful ingredients, perfect for any time of year.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the base

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil adds richness and moisture
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast cut into cubes provides protein and texture
  • 1 cup diced onion for sweetness and flavor
  • 5 cloves garlic minced adds aromatic depth
  • 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeño contributes mild heat
  • 1 packed cup cilantro leaves roughly chopped, divided adds brightness and freshness

For seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon cumin brings earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon oregano enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon paprika adds smokiness
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper provides a touch of spice
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper for warmth
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt to enhance all flavors

For the chili

  • 4 15.8-ounce cans white beans drained creates creaminess
  • 6 cups chicken broth or stock provides a savory base
  • 16 ounces frozen corn adds sweetness and texture
  • 2 4-ounce cans diced green chile peppers undrained offers tangy heat

For serving

  • 1 dollop sour cream optional adds creaminess

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by warming a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until the oil glistens, indicating it’s ready, then add the cubed chicken. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  • Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same pan on medium heat. Once hot, incorporate the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño. Stir frequently, allowing them to soften for approximately 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and tender.
  • Add ½ cup of the chopped cilantro to the pan and stir well. Transfer this mixture to a large pot, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Set the heat to medium under the pot. Add cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir thoroughly and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Add the drained white beans and chicken broth to the large pot with the seasoned vegetables. Stir well and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time.
  • Once the beans have softened to your liking, use a potato masher to mash them to the desired consistency for thickness.
  • Add the sautéed chicken back to the pot, along with the frozen corn and the diced green chiles with their liquid. Stir to combine and continue to simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until everything is cooked through.
  • Just before serving, stir in the remaining ½ cup of chopped cilantro. Portion into serving bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

Brown the chicken well for added flavor. Adjust jalapeño to your heat preference. Simmer longer for richer flavor.
Keyword chicken, Chili, comfort food, Easy Recipe, White Bean