Healthy White Chicken Chili

This healthy white chicken chili is the perfect clean-eating meal that you can prepare in your crockpot and let it work its magic. It’s packed with nutritious veggies, protein-rich chicken, and hearty beans, offering a creamy texture without any dairy. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this dish stands out for its comforting flavors and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With a blend of spices and fresh ingredients, each bowl is bursting with taste.
• Versatile Options: Customize your toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili keeps you full without unnecessary calories.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy a creamy texture without dairy, making it suitable for various diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious healthy white chicken chili, you’ll need a few essential tools to help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, infusing flavors over hours while you focus on other tasks.
• Medium skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies and preparing ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through vegetables, making preparation quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 poblano peppers (seeded and diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Chili Mixture

• 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)

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 3 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Freshly cracked pepper and kosher salt (to taste)

For the Protein and Creaminess

• 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

Refer to your favorites to add extra flavor!

How to Make Healthy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and poblano peppers; sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Add 2 cups of chicken broth to the slow cooker along with the beans, corn, green chilis, and spices.
2. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Nestle the chicken breasts into the chili mixture; press down gently to submerge them in liquid.
2. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Step 4: Cook

• Cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 6-8 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken & Final Touches

1. Remove cooked chicken from the pot; place it on a cutting board.
2. Shred with two forks before placing it back into the slow cooker.
3. Add cream cheese (if using) and coconut milk; stir until melted and combined.
4. If needed, add more broth to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Serve warm topped with your favorite garnishes!

How to Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili

Healthy white chicken chili is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enhance the flavor and presentation with different toppings and sides that complement its creamy texture and savory taste.

Toppings

• Fresh cilantro: Adds a vibrant flavor and freshness to each bowl.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado provides healthy fats and a smooth texture.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish with a tangy kick.
• Chopped green onions: Offers a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Dairy-free sour cream: Provides a cool, creamy contrast to the chili’s warmth.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A sweet, fluffy side that pairs perfectly with chili.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips are great for dipping or sprinkling on top for added texture.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve it over rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal.
• 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 for achieving optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your chili.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to customize the heat by adding more or less chili powder or cumin based on your taste preference.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the chili to cook longer helps flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
• Add more broth if needed: If you prefer a thinner consistency, gradually stir in additional chicken broth until you reach your desired thickness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like shredded lettuce or diced tomatoes to keep things interesting.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy White Chicken Chili

Pairing healthy white chicken chili with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that work well.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds flavor and richness, making each bite delightful.
2. Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection provides a healthy crunch alongside the chili.
3. Crispy baked tortilla strips: These offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy chili.
4. Cilantro lime rice: This zesty rice dish brings out the flavors of the chili and makes for an excellent side.
5. Stuffed bell peppers: Filled with grains and veggies, they serve as a hearty accompaniment to your meal.
6. Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Healthy White Chicken Chili, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that might affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can lead to subpar flavors. Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it may become dry. Follow the suggested cooking times and check for doneness to keep it juicy.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in a bland chili. Always taste before serving and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Not using enough broth: A lack of broth can lead to a thick chili that isn’t enjoyable. Make sure to add enough liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
• Forgetting toppings: Toppings enhance the flavor and presentation of your chili. Don’t skip them; consider options like avocado, cilantro, or lime juice for extra zest.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for optimal freshness.

Reheating Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer chili to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Healthy White Chicken Chili that may help you with your cooking journey.

Can I make Healthy White Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili tastes even better when made a day in advance as the flavors meld together overnight.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini or corn based on what you have on hand.

How can I make Healthy White Chicken Chili spicier?

To add spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or increasing the chili powder amount according to your taste preferences.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese or omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter version of this chili.

How do I serve Healthy White Chicken Chili?

Serve it hot with your favorite toppings such as fresh herbs, diced avocado, or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different veggies or toppings according to your taste. Try making it today for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Healthy White Chicken Chili

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in this Healthy White Chicken Chili, a wholesome and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Packed with lean protein, hearty beans, and nutritious vegetables, this chili delivers a creamy texture without any dairy. With flavors that meld beautifully as it cooks in your slow cooker, you’ll love the effortless preparation and satisfying taste. This recipe is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a clean-eating meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Customize your toppings for a personal touch, making each bowl uniquely yours!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Sauté onion and poblano peppers in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly before transferring to the slow cooker.
2. In the slow cooker, combine sautéed vegetables with chicken broth, beans, corn, green chiles, and spices.
3. Nestle chicken breasts into the mixture and cover with the lid.
4. Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours until chicken is tender.
5. Shred chicken before returning it to the pot, then stir in coconut milk until well combined.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg