White Bean Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, this White Bean Chili is just what you need. Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The wonderful combination of spices and fresh herbs makes this chili a standout dish that everyone will love.

This recipe has become a favorite of mine because it’s so easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s wonderfully filling and comforting—just what you want when the weather turns chilly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty chili simmering away in no time.
• Family-friendly: The mild flavors appeal to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Flexible recipe: You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to!
• Nutrient-packed meal: With plenty of beans and veggies, it’s both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a bowl of comfort you’ll crave again and again. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful White Bean Chili:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 ½ pounds chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 1 cup diced onion
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeño (approximately 1 jalapeño pepper)
• 1 packed cup cilantro leaves (roughly chopped, divided)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 (15.8-ounce) cans white beans (drained)
• 6 cups chicken broth or stock
• 16 ounces frozen corn
• 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chile peppers (undrained)
• sour cream (optional, for serving)

Variations

This White Bean Chili is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste or any dietary needs:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or throw in some red pepper flakes.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How to Make White Bean Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the cubed chicken. Sauté the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes until it’s golden brown on the outside. This step locks in moisture and flavor before we combine it with all those delicious spices.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan and reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño. Cook these aromatic ingredients for about 5 minutes until they soften. This not only enhances their flavors but also builds a solid base for our chili.

Step 3: Combine with Cilantro

Once your onions are softened, stir in half a cup of chopped cilantro. Combine everything well before transferring all these lovely sautéed ingredients into a large pot. The cilantro adds freshness that balances out our rich chili perfectly.

Step 4: Add Spices

Set your pot’s heat to medium again, then sprinkle in cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together well so that spices coat all those beautiful veggies. Cooking them briefly helps release their essential oils—this is where all that amazing flavor comes from!

Step 5: Mix in Beans and Broth

Now it’s time to pour in those four cans of drained white beans along with six cups of chicken broth or stock. Stir everything together thoroughly; we want those beans to soak up all those fantastic flavors as they cook!

Step 6: Let It Simmer

Allow your chili mixture to simmer gently for at least30 minutes but up to two hours if you have time! As it simmers, those beans will soften beautifully. Use a potato masher towards the end if you’d like a creamier texture—this adds richness while keeping some bean chunks for bite.

Step 7: Add Chicken and Corn

After your beans are nicely softened, stir in that sautéed chicken along with frozen corn and diced green chiles. Let everything simmer together until the chicken is fully cooked and heated through—about another ten to fifteen minutes should do it!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Right before serving, fold in the remaining half cup of cilantro for an extra burst of freshness. Portion your chili into bowls—and if you’re feeling indulgent—top it off with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy this warm hug in a bowl!

Pro Tips for Making White Bean Chili

Making white bean chili should be a fun and rewarding experience, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance the flavor of your chili. They bring vibrancy and depth that dried or canned alternatives simply can’t match.

• Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. This way, you can create a chili that’s just right for you and your guests.

• Let It Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the more the flavors will meld together. If you have time, aim for that full two-hour simmer for a richer taste.

• Experiment with Beans: While white beans are classic, try mixing in other varieties like kidney or pinto beans for varied texture and flavor. This adds an extra layer of heartiness to your dish.

• Save Leftovers: White bean chili tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and enjoy them as a quick meal later on.

How to Serve White Bean Chili

Serving white bean chili is all about presentation and creating a cozy atmosphere. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the chili beautifully.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices not only look appealing but also add a rich texture that balances spiciness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors in the chili, making each bite refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is perfect for scooping up chili. Its sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a great texture contrast and can be used for dipping. They’re always a hit at gatherings!
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving your white bean chili over cooked rice or quinoa adds bulk to the meal while enhancing its nutritional value.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your white bean chili will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This white bean chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze some for later. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick thawing.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious white bean chili!

Can I make White Bean Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with your choice of veggies or plant-based protein. Vegetable broth can also replace chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

How do I spice up my White Bean Chili?

If you love extra heat, consider adding more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You could also stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chiles while cooking!

Can I use different beans in White Bean Chili?

Yes, feel free to mix and match your favorite beans! Great northern beans, cannellini beans, or even black beans can work well in this recipe.

What should I serve with White Bean Chili?

This hearty chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. You can also top it with avocado or cheese for an extra layer of flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this flavorful white bean chili! It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it during game day gatherings, this chili is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and sides. Happy cooking!