Why You’ll Love White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
This recipe is quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s made in one pot, uses simple ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. The blended beans create a naturally creamy texture without needing heavy cream, making it both comforting and balanced.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 white or yellow onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
8 ounces diced green chiles, from a can
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 to 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 tablespoon lime juice
cilantro, avocado, and tortilla chips for topping
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Stir in the garlic and diced green chiles, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
Mix in the cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken broth, beans, corn, and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Start with 2 cups of broth and add more if you prefer a thinner chili.
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to come together. Scoop out about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the chili and blend until smooth.
Return the blended portion to the pot and stir in the shredded chicken.
Simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Stir in the lime juice just before serving.
Serve hot with fresh cilantro, avocado, and tortilla chips.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Total time: 28 minutes
Variations
For a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra green chiles.
For a dairy-free version, omit the Greek yogurt or sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
For extra vegetables, add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
For a thicker chili, blend more of the mixture before adding the chicken.
For a different protein, swap the chicken for turkey or keep it vegetarian by adding extra beans.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
This chili can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of beans?
Yes, cannellini beans or navy beans work well as substitutes for great northern beans.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté the onions, garlic, and chiles first, then add everything except the yogurt, lime juice, and chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low, then blend a portion, add the chicken, and finish as directed.
Is rotisserie chicken necessary?
No, you can use any cooked, shredded chicken such as baked or poached chicken breast.
How do I make it thicker?
Blend more of the chili or simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime all work well.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans or vegetables for a hearty result.
Why blend part of the chili?
Blending part of the chili creates a creamy texture without adding heavy cream.
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly. Just add it directly to the pot.
How do I adjust the consistency?
Add more broth to thin it out or simmer longer to thicken it to your preference.
Conclusion
White Bean Chicken Chili is a quick, cozy meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy texture, zesty finish, and customizable ingredients make it a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
