This Healthy White Chicken Chili recipe is a delicious take on a classic dish that fits perfectly into your healthy lifestyle. It’s easy to make in the crockpot, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with vegetables, protein, and beans, this chili is creamy yet dairy-free, making it an excellent option for various occasions from cozy dinners to meal prepping for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient Cooking: Simply throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: A blend of spices and wholesome ingredients creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Meal: Customize your chili with different toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich beans, this dish supports a balanced diet without compromising on flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Enjoy a creamy texture without any dairy, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Healthy White Chicken Chili efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Medium skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-free cooking; just set it and forget it until mealtime.
- Medium skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the chili.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of veggies, making preparation quick and safe.
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.
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
- 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.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth along with the beans, corn, green chilis, oregano, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
- Nestle the chicken breasts into the chili mixture by pressing them down to submerge in liquid.
- Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker onto a cutting board.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with cream cheese (if using) and coconut milk or heavy cream.
- Stir until melted and mixed well; add more broth if desired to reach your preferred consistency.
- Taste test; add more salt or pepper as needed before serving with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your warm bowl of healthy white chicken chili!
How to Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili
Serving Healthy White Chicken Chili is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your liking. This dish not only warms the soul, but it also allows for creativity with various toppings and sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.
Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado enhances the texture and richness of the chili.
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish with a zesty kick.
- Diced Red Onions – For a sharp contrast, add some diced red onions on top.
- Sour Cream or Yogurt – Dairy-free sour cream or yogurt provides creaminess without dairy.
- Shredded Cheese Alternatives – Consider using vegan cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread – Soft, warm cornbread pairs perfectly with the chili’s creaminess.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are great for scooping up the chili or enjoying on the side.
- Rice – Serve over brown rice for a filling meal that complements the flavors.
- Salad – A light green salad balances out the hearty nature of the chili.
How to Perfect Healthy White Chicken Chili
To make your Healthy White Chicken Chili even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve optimal flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality chicken enhance overall taste and nutrition.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify spices based on your heat preference; add more chili powder or cumin for warmth.
- Experiment with Broths – Using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
- Let It Sit – Allowing the chili to sit for a while after cooking helps meld flavors together beautifully.
- Double Up on Beans – If you love beans, consider adding more for extra protein and fiber content.
- Customize Consistency – Add more broth if you prefer a soupier chili or allow it to reduce for a thicker texture.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy White Chicken Chili
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy White Chicken Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty dish well.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness and is perfect for dipping tortilla chips.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil provide a healthy contrast to the chili’s warmth.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers freshness alongside your meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with spicy chili flavors.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the rich flavors of the chili.
- Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy, zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy White Chicken Chili, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring the Cooking Time: Not following the recommended cooking time can lead to undercooked or dried-out chicken. Stick to the high/low settings for perfect chicken every time.
- Using Regular Cream Cheese: If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, using regular cream cheese will ruin your recipe. Opt for dairy-free alternatives to keep it creamy.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping spices or using too little can result in bland chili. Taste as you go and adjust spices like cumin and chili powder for a flavorful dish.
- Overloading with Toppings: While toppings can enhance the dish, excessive amounts can overwhelm the chili’s flavor. Choose a few favorites like avocado or cilantro for balance.
- Not Shredding Chicken Properly: Failing to shred the chicken adequately means uneven texture. Use two forks to ensure it’s well shredded and mixed into the chili.
- Skipping the Broth Adjustment: Not adjusting the broth can lead to a too-thick or too-thin chili. Add broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the chili to cool before refrigerating.
Freezing Healthy White Chicken Chili
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as it may expand when frozen.
Reheating Healthy White Chicken Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy White Chicken Chili that may help you while cooking.
Can I make Healthy White Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Yes! This chili can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
What substitutions can I make in this Healthy White Chicken Chili?
You can use turkey or beef instead of chicken, and any white beans if cannellini is unavailable.
How spicy is Healthy White Chicken Chili?
The spice level depends on your choice of green chiles and chili powder; adjust according to your preference.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
What toppings should I use with Healthy White Chicken Chili?
Popular toppings include avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips for crunch!
Final Thoughts
Healthy White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various proteins and veggies. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a comforting meal that suits every palate!
Healthy White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Healthy White Chicken Chili is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together a medley of flavors while keeping your health in mind. This hearty chili is easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days. Packed with lean chicken, fiber-rich beans, and a variety of colorful vegetables, this recipe provides a creamy texture without any dairy. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this chili is sure to satisfy. Serve it with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor!
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
- 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)
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and poblano peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth and add white beans, corn, green chiles, oregano, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Nestle chicken into the mixture and cover the slow cooker. Cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker along with coconut milk or heavy cream. Stir until creamy and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Adjust spices to suit your taste; add more chili powder for extra heat. For added nutrition, feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
