This White Bean Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, sweet corn, and roasted jalapeños, all simmered together in a savory broth. It’s an excellent choice for a comforting meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

3 jalapeño peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups yellow onion, diced (¼-inch)
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup canned roasted green chilies, divided
2½ cups white beans (two 15-ounce cans), drained
1 cup unsalted chicken stock, divided
1½ cups corn (15-ounce can)
1¼ teaspoons kosher salt, more as needed
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Roast the Jalapeños: Preheat the oven’s broiler. Place jalapeños on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil until skins are browned and blistered, turning as needed, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam until cool. Peel, remove stems, and deseed for a milder chili; set aside.
Prepare Aromatics: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine olive oil, diced onions, minced garlic, and cumin. Microwave for 3 minutes, stir, then microwave for an additional 2 minutes until onions are tender.
Assemble in Slow Cooker: In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the prepared aromatics, chicken breasts, ½ cup of roasted green chilies, corn, 1 cup of white beans, and ½ cup of chicken stock.
Blend for Creaminess: In a blender, puree the roasted jalapeños, remaining ½ cup of green chilies, 1 cup of white beans, and remaining ½ cup of chicken stock until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker.
Cook: Season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred or cube it, then return it to the pot and stir to combine.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as avocado, cilantro, green onions, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, radishes, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 372 kcal
Protein: 37.8 g
Fat: 7.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
Carbohydrates: 39.0 g
- Fiber: 7.8 g
- Sugars: 6.6 g
Cholesterol: 69.5 mg
Sodium: 1429.0 mg
Potassium: 695.6 mg
Calcium: 100.2 mg
Iron: 5.1 mg

History and Origins of White Bean Chicken Chili

Chili is a dish that has a rich and storied history, with its roots tracing back to various parts of the world, including Mexico and the American Southwest. While the exact origins of chili are debated, it is widely accepted that the dish was popularized in Texas in the 1800s, where it became a staple in many homes and eateries. Traditionally, chili was made with beef, tomatoes, and beans, but over time, the dish has evolved and adapted to regional tastes and dietary needs.

The concept of White Bean Chicken Chili is a more recent innovation that arose as people began experimenting with chili recipes and looking for lighter alternatives to the traditional beef-based versions. This version replaces the typical red kidney beans with white beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, which have a creamy texture and milder flavor. The use of chicken breast instead of ground beef offers a leaner protein option, making this dish a popular choice for those looking to reduce their intake of saturated fat while still enjoying the comforting flavors of chili.

The addition of roasted jalapeños and green chilies further sets this recipe apart from traditional chili, adding a smoky and slightly spicy kick to the dish. These ingredients enhance the complexity of the flavor without overpowering the dish, making it a great option for people who enjoy a bit of heat but prefer a milder spice profile than traditional chili.

Nutritional Benefits of White Bean Chicken Chili

White Bean Chicken Chili is not only a delicious dish but also a highly nutritious one. The combination of chicken, beans, and vegetables provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, maintaining a healthy immune system, and producing enzymes and hormones. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
Fiber: White beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is rich in several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps the body absorb iron, while potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Folate is important for cell growth and development, especially during pregnancy.
Low in Fat: Unlike traditional chili, which is often made with fatty cuts of beef, White Bean Chicken Chili is lower in fat due to the use of skinless chicken breast. This makes it a heart-healthy choice for those looking to reduce their intake of saturated fats and maintain a healthy weight.
Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for people with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet. It’s also easily customizable to accommodate other dietary preferences, such as dairy-free or low-sodium versions.

Why White Bean Chicken Chili is a Perfect Comfort Food

Comfort food is about more than just taste; it’s about the feeling of warmth and satisfaction that comes from eating a hearty, home-cooked meal. White Bean Chicken Chili checks all the boxes when it comes to comfort food. The creamy texture of the beans, the tender chicken, and the savory broth provide a sense of coziness and satisfaction that is perfect for a cold winter’s night or when you’re feeling under the weather.

There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of chili. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. The fact that it’s also healthy adds to its appeal, as it offers the indulgence of comfort food without the guilt.

Additionally, White Bean Chicken Chili can be customized to suit a variety of preferences, making it a great dish to serve to guests or family members with different tastes. Whether you prefer it spicier, creamier, or with more vegetables, this chili is versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of modifications. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeños or green chilies, or make it creamier by adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.

Creative Variations of White Bean Chicken Chili

While the classic version of White Bean Chicken Chili is already delicious on its own, there are several creative variations that can be made to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Spicy White Bean Chicken Chili: If you like your chili with a bit more heat, try adding extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or even chipotle peppers to intensify the spiciness. You can also top the chili with sliced fresh chilies or spicy salsa for an extra kick.
Vegetarian White Bean Chili: For a vegetarian version of this dish, simply replace the chicken with plant-based protein sources, such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, to enhance the flavor and nutritional content.
Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili: For a richer and creamier texture, you can add a cup of heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese to the chili during the last stages of cooking. This will give the soup a velvety texture and a more indulgent feel.
Low-Sodium White Bean Chicken Chili: To make this dish lower in sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the chili. You can also reduce the amount of salt added to the recipe and rely on herbs and spices to boost the flavor.
White Bean Chicken Chili with Cheese: If you love cheese, you can top your chili with shredded cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. The cheese will melt into the soup, adding a rich and savory element that complements the other flavors.

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili

White Bean Chicken Chili can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences. Traditionally, it’s served in bowls with a variety of toppings and sides. Some popular toppings include sliced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. These toppings add extra flavor and texture to the dish and allow you to personalize each serving to your taste.

Conclusion

White Bean Chicken Chili is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dish that has earned its place as a comfort food favorite. With its tender chicken, creamy beans, and flavorful broth, this dish offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal, a family gathering, or as a comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this chili is sure to satisfy.

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