Healthy White Chicken Chili

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With a hearty combination of chicken, beans, and spices, this dish delivers flavor without sacrificing health. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize toppings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s made in a crockpot, making it a convenient option for anyone seeking a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, this chili is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips for a personal touch.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Enjoy a creamy texture without dairy by using coconut milk or dairy-free cream cheese.
• High Protein Content: With chicken and beans as the main ingredients, this dish is high in protein to keep you full.

Tools and Preparation

To make this healthy white chicken chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools on hand will make preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows you to cook the chili slowly at low temperatures, enhancing flavors while requiring minimal supervision.
• Medium Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker; this step builds depth of flavor in your chili.
• Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: These are essential for easily chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients quickly.

Ingredients

This healthy white chicken chili recipe is a clean-eating meal you can throw in the crockpot and forget about. It’s made with veggies, protein, beans and is still creamy even though it’s dairy free.

Main Ingredients

• 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 Vegetables

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth along with drained cannellini beans, corn, diced green chiles, and all spices.
2. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Nestle the chicken breasts into the mixture; press down slightly to ensure they are submerged in liquid.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about 4–6 hours or on low for approximately 6–8 hours.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Finish Chili

1. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Return shredded chicken back into the crockpot along with cream cheese (if using) and coconut milk or heavy cream.
4. Stir until melted; if desired consistency isn’t reached, add up to an additional cup of broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of healthy white chicken chili!

How to Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili

Serving Healthy White Chicken Chili can be as creative as you want. This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides to enhance its flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your bowl of chili.

Classic Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado complements the chili’s richness.
• Diced Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy contrast to the warm chili.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens up the entire dish.

Crunchy Additions

• Tortilla Chips – Serve alongside for a satisfying crunch or crumble on top.
• Shredded Lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess.
• Chopped Green Onions – A mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.

Dairy-Free Options

• Nutritional Yeast – Sprinkle for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Dairy-Free Sour Cream – Offers creaminess while adhering to dietary preferences.

How to Perfect Healthy White Chicken Chili

Achieving the perfect Healthy White Chicken Chili requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you master this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your chili.
• Adjust Spices Gradually – Start with recommended spices, then taste and adjust according to preference for heat and flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow – For optimal tenderness, cook on low heat longer; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Shred Chicken After Cooking – Shredding chicken ensures it’s tender and easily distributed throughout the chili.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with Healthy White Chicken Chili can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread – A classic pairing, cornbread’s sweetness complements the savory chili perfectly.
2. Garden Salad – A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm chili, enhancing your meal’s nutrition.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor alongside your hearty bowl of chili.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad that adds texture and balances out the meal nicely.
5. Rice or Cauliflower Rice – Serve underneath for added bulk or texture without overwhelming flavors.
6. Guacamole with Veggies – A healthy dip made from avocado served with crunchy vegetables for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Healthy White Chicken Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onions and peppers can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always start by cooking these ingredients until soft before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If you don’t add sufficient broth, your chili may end up too thick. Always start with at least 2 cups of chicken broth and adjust as needed for your desired consistency.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Leaving the chicken in the slow cooker for too long can make it dry. Monitor cooking times closely—4-6 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low is ideal.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to check salt and pepper levels after cooking, as flavors can change during the process.
• Choosing Low-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Healthy White Chicken Chili in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Healthy White Chicken Chili.

Can I make Healthy White Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can skip cream cheese altogether or use a dairy-free alternative made from nuts or soy. This keeps the chili creamy without dairy.

How spicy is Healthy White Chicken Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted easily! Use less chili powder and omit green chiles if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even plant-based protein sources like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. It’s an easy meal that fits perfectly into any clean eating plan, making it a must-try!

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Healthy White Chicken Chili

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

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Description

Healthy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This creamy yet dairy-free chili features tender chicken, hearty beans, and a blend of spices that create an explosion of flavor in every bite. Made in a slow cooker, it’s not only convenient but also versatile, allowing you to customize toppings to suit your taste. With wholesome ingredients and high protein content, this healthy meal will keep you satisfied without compromising on taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this chili is sure to become a family favorite.

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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)
• Toppings as desired (see notes)

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Instructions

1. 1. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and poblano peppers for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. 2. Transfer the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, drained beans, corn, diced green chiles, and spices; mix well.
3. 3. Nestle chicken into the mixture, cover, and cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
4. 4. Once cooked, shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker along with coconut milk or cream cheese. Stir until combined and adjust consistency with more broth if needed.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. For added creaminess without dairy, consider using nutritional yeast or dairy-free sour cream as toppings.