Healthy White Chicken Chili

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s a creamy delight that can be made in your crockpot. Enjoy this clean-eating recipe that’s not only satisfying but also dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Combination: With a blend of spices, chicken, and beans, every spoonful is packed with deliciousness.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken, veggies, and beans for a wholesome meal that nourishes your body.
• Dairy-Free Option: The creamy texture comes from coconut milk or dairy-free cream cheese, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Healthy White Chicken Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their taste before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for dicing onions and peppers quickly and safely.

Ingredients

The following ingredients are required to create this delicious Healthy White Chicken Chili:

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 poblano peppers (seeded and diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2-3 cups chicken broth (or chicken stock)
• 2 (15-ounce) cans white cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn (drained)
• 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 3 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Freshly cracked pepper and kosher salt (to taste)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (dairy-free if needed, optional)
• 1 cup full fat coconut milk (or heavy cream)
• Toppings as desired (see notes)

How to Make Healthy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and poblano peppers; sauté for about 3–4 minutes until soft. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add 2 cups of chicken broth, white cannellini beans, corn, diced green chiles, oregano, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt into the slow cooker. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Nestle the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the chili mixture. Press down gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on high for approximately 4–6 hours or low for about 6–8 hours.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Finish Chili

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker onto a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker along with cream cheese (if using) and coconut milk or heavy cream. Stir until well combined. You can add up to an additional cup of broth if you prefer a thinner consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili

Serving Healthy White Chicken Chili is all about enhancing its flavors and textures. You can choose various toppings and sides that complement the chili’s creamy, hearty base.

Toppings

• Avocado slices – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Fresh cilantro – Brightens up the dish with a fresh herbal note.
• Sour cream or yogurt – A dollop adds a tangy contrast (use dairy-free options if needed).
• Shredded cheese – Provides a savory richness; try dairy-free alternatives.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime elevates the flavors with acidity.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – The sweet, crumbly texture pairs beautifully with the chili.
• Tortilla chips – Adds crunch; perfect for scooping or snacking alongside.
• Rice or quinoa – Serve it over for added heartiness and fiber.
• Salad – A light side salad balances the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect Healthy White Chicken Chili

To make your Healthy White Chicken Chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh veggies enhance flavor and nutrition compared to canned options.
• Adjust spice levels – Tailor the seasoning to your taste; add more chili powder for heat or reduce it for milder flavor.
• Let it sit – Allowing the chili to rest after cooking can deepen its flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with proteins – Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein source and flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy White Chicken Chili can create a complete meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter complements the chili nicely.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds freshness; opt for a vinegar-based dressing for brightness.
3. Grilled vegetables – Seasonal veggies provide additional nutrients and texture.
4. Baked potatoes – These are hearty and perfect for soaking up any extra chili broth.
5. Pico de gallo – This fresh salsa adds zesty flavor and a crisp texture contrast.
6. Stuffed peppers – These can be filled with rice or quinoa, adding more substance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Healthy White Chicken Chili can be a simple process, but there are common mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality chicken or canned products can impact flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible.

• Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the crockpot too long can make it tough. Keep an eye on cooking times to achieve tender, juicy meat.

• Not adjusting spices: Every palate is different. Start with less spice and adjust according to your taste preferences as you go.

• Skipping toppings: Toppings add flavor and texture to your chili. Don’t forget to include items like avocado, cilantro, or lime juice for added zest.

• Neglecting consistency: If your chili is too thick or thin, you can adjust it by adding broth or simmering longer. Aim for a creamy texture that isn’t overly watery.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
• item Allow the chili to cool before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Healthy White Chicken Chili

• item Freeze in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• item Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Healthy White Chicken Chili:

Can I use other types of beans?

You can substitute other beans such as black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this healthy white chicken chili is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, including broth and any additional toppings.

Can I make this chili spicy?

Absolutely! You can add jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder for extra heat. Adjust according to your preference!

How do I make it dairy-free?

To keep it dairy-free, simply omit cream cheese and use full-fat coconut milk instead, which gives a creamy richness without dairy.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking time varies based on your slow cooker settings. On high, it takes about 4-6 hours; on low, about 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste. Perfect as a hearty dinner option, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!

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Healthy White Chicken Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this creamy, dairy-free dish is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and vibrant veggies. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 poblano peppers (seeded and diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2–3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans white cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can corn (drained)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk

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Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and poblano peppers for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute before transferring to a slow cooker.
2. In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, beans, corn, spices, and salt. Mix well.
3. Nestle the chicken into the mixture, submerging it slightly. Cover and cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir in cream cheese and coconut milk until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg