Healthy White Chicken Chili is a warm and cozy dish that brings comfort to any meal. With a creamy texture, it’s packed with flavor and is perfect for chilly nights. This recipe is simple enough for busy families and makes great leftovers, too. Serve it any night of the week for a delicious, filling meal.

Why You Will Love This Healthy White Chicken Chili

This recipe is great for families! It’s easy to whip up and uses everyday ingredients you might already have at home. The cooking is mostly hands-off, which leaves you time to focus on your loved ones. Plus, it’s a tasty way to enjoy chicken and beans. Everyone’s going to love the creamy goodness.

How to Make Healthy White Chicken Chili

Making this white chicken chili is straightforward. You’ll start by sautéing some vegetables, then combine everything in a slow cooker. From there, just let it simmer and do its thing. It’s a great dish that requires minimal effort but is packed with flavor.

What You Need

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)

Step-by-Step

Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and poblano peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add 2 cups of chicken broth, beans, corn, green chilis, and spices; mix to combine. Nestle the chicken breasts in the chili and press them down to submerge in the liquid. Cover and cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Place it back in the crock pot with the cream cheese (if using) and heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir to melt and combine. You can add up to 1 cup more broth to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve with your favorite chili toppings.

How to Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili

This chili is versatile! Consider serving it with tortilla chips for dipping or over rice for a heartier meal. Toppings such as shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or avocado add flavor and freshness. It works great for a cozy family dinner or a game day gathering.

How to Store Healthy White Chicken Chili

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well, so feel free to portion some out for later! Just ensure it cools completely before freezing. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Recipe Tips

Cook Time: Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker.
Texture: For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth.
Substitutions: Swap chicken for turkey or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat.
Spice: Kick it up a notch by adding jalapeños or chili flakes.
Extras: Serve with sour cream or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.

Variations & Swaps

Creamy Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and skip the chicken.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a plant-based meal.
Holiday Twist: Add some pumpkin puree for a seasonal flair, perfect for fall gatherings.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This chili can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat it?
You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. It can also be microwaved in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use beans or lentils as a great alternative for chicken, making the dish vegetarian or vegan. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Shred it after cooking to keep it moist. Also, be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.