Simple White Chicken Chili Recipe: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of chili that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This simple white chicken chili recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual weeknight dinner. It's light, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying meal!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that pungent, savory note.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: The star of the show! You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for even faster prep time.
- 1 (15 ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained: Provides heartiness and protein. Cannellini or great northern beans work wonderfully.
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The base of the chili, ensuring a flavorful broth.
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies: Adds a kick of heat – adjust to your spice preference!
- 1 tsp chili powder: A classic chili ingredient, for warmth and depth.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Earthy and aromatic, complementing the chicken and beans.
- 1/4 tsp oregano: Adds a subtle herbal complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to a flavorful chili!
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, green onions – get creative!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious white chicken chili:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop deeper flavors.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the white beans, corn, chicken broth, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become!
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Slow cooker option: For an even easier approach, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This Simple White Chicken Chili recipe is a winner! It's a delicious, easy-to-make, and versatile meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
