Picture this: A chilly evening with clouds rolling in as the sun sets, casting a soft glow over everything. The comforting aroma of tender chicken simmering with a tantalizing blend of spices fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in. This Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for those cold nights when you crave something hearty yet healthy.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a week of meal prepping, and it quickly became a family favorite. With its creamy beans, vibrant corn, and rich spices, it offers a nutrition-packed punch that keeps everyone satisfied. Plus, the beauty of this chili lies in its versatility—you can easily swap chicken with turkey or plant-based proteins, making it a go-to solution for every dietary preference.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip together a dish that impresses guests and delights your family, proving that wholesome meals can also be easy to prepare. Join me as we dive into the simple, yet flavorful ingredients that make this chili a winner!
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe
Simplicity at Its Best: The cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Flavorful and Inviting: A zesty blend of spices and creamy beans guarantees a comforting and rich taste.
Customizable to Fit Every Taste: Easily swap chicken for turkey or plant-based proteins for a personalized twist.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking—store leftovers for quick meals on busy days!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this chili consistently impresses and satisfies!
Try serving with savory Chicken Caesar for an exciting combo!
Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – The main protein source ensures a hearty texture; you can swap it with turkey or plant-based protein for variations.
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth – Acts as the flavorful liquid base; vegetable broth is a great option to keep it vegetarian.
For the Vegetables
• 1 small onion, diced – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used if you want a milder flavor.
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced – Essential for rich aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is best for optimal taste.
• 2 cups corn – Contributes natural sweetness and texture; frozen corn is easy and convenient.
• 4 ounces canned diced green chilies – Adds mild heat and flavor; swap out for fresh green chilies for a spicier kick.
For the Beans
• 2 x 15-ounce cans great Northern beans – Delivers creaminess and essential protein; cannellini beans work well as a substitute.
For the Spice Blend
• 1 teaspoon cumin, ground – Adds earthy warmth and depth of flavor, a must-have spice for chili.
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano – Enhances the overall aroma; fresh oregano can elevate the taste even further.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – Introduces a nice level of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper – For an added kick; use sparingly or omit for less heat.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – Elevates the overall taste; freshly ground is recommended for the best flavor.
For the Final Touch
• 1 small bunch cilantro, finely chopped – Adds a bright, fresh note; feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
• 1/2 cup plain or Greek yogurt – Provides creaminess and tang; a delicious topping!
• 1 lime, juice of – Brightens up the dish; don’t skip this for that refreshing finish.
For Serving
• Tortilla chips, avocado, more yogurt, limes – Perfect for customization, adding crunch and creaminess with every bowl.
This Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe is sure to impress!
How to Make Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili
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Sauté Aromatics: Preheat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
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Add Spices: Stir in the cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to unlock their full flavors and intensify the aroma.
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Mash the Beans: In a small bowl, mash 1 cup of the great Northern beans until smooth. This will add creaminess to your chili.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed beans, chicken broth, the remaining whole beans, corn, green chilies, and chicken breasts to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
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Shred the Chicken: After simmering, remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
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Final Touches: Add lime juice, cilantro, and yogurt into the chili. Stir well until everything is combined and serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Optional: Top with avocado slices and extra cilantro for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights! You can sauté the aromatics and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before proceeding with the recipe. Additionally, the chili can be fully cooked and kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its delicious flavor and creamy texture, refrigerate it promptly once cooled, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. When ready to serve, simply sprinkle fresh cilantro and lime juice just before enjoying this comforting dish, ensuring it remains just as delightful as when it was first made!
What to Serve with Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili?
Picture a cozy dinner setting where each bite of chili is complemented by flavors and textures that bring the meal to life.
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Creamy Avocado Slices: These add a rich, buttery texture that balances the chili’s spices, making each bite delightful.
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Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, their crispy texture and salty flavor provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy chili.
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Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile and adding a refreshing note.
Pair you chili with a crisp Garden Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a light, crunchy side that adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
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Savory Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread beautifully complements the chili, soaking up flavors while providing a comforting side.
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Chilled Beer: A light lager or a refreshing pale ale pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the chili and complementing its spices perfectly.
These pairing options ensure that your meal feels complete and satisfying, making every spoonful of chili even more enjoyable.
Storage Tips for Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili
Fridge: Allow the chili to cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making meal prep easy and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label and date the containers!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive its creamy texture if needed.
Leftovers: Don’t waste any chili! This dish is not only tasty but also high in protein, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or fast lunches.
Expert Tips for the Best High Protein White Chicken Chili
- Sear for Flavor: Consider searing the chicken before cooking to enhance its moisture and flavor, creating a richer base for your chili.
- Spice Adjustments: If you’re cautious about spice, start with half the cayenne pepper and add more later to suit your taste without overwhelming the dish.
- Bean Blending: Don’t forget to mash some of the great Northern beans; this adds a delightful creaminess to your Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili.
- Prep Toppings Early: While the chili simmers, prep your toppings like avocado, lime, and extra yogurt to make serving quick and easy.
- Storage Savvy: Chill leftovers promptly and store them in airtight containers. This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making meal prep a breeze!
Variations & Substitutions for Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili
Get ready to personalize your chili experience with exciting twists and swaps that will tickle your taste buds!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a leaner protein option; the flavor remains rich and comforting.
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Plant-Based Protein: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken for a vegetarian delight. This adds a hearty texture while keeping it light.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color. Each addition creates a delightful burst of healthiness.
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Extra Spice: If you love heat, amp up the cayenne or add jalapeños or fresh habaneros for an exciting kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Creamy Addition: Mix in some heavy cream or coconut milk for an extra creamy texture. It transforms the chili into a luxurious experience, perfect for chilly nights.
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Tomato Twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy flavor and a wetter chili. This can brighten up the overall taste!
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Herb Variation: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or green onions for a different herbal note. Each option brings a unique freshness to the dish.
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Crunchy Toppings: Experiment with toppings like crushed tortilla chips, diced radishes, or even jalapeño slices for an exciting textural contrast. These add delightful crunch and enhance the overall experience!
Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the chili?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness. However, you can easily swap them for turkey if you prefer a leaner option, or use a plant-based protein like jackfruit or lentils for a vegetarian version.
How should I store leftover chili?
To keep your Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove and add a little chicken broth if it thickens too much!
Can I freeze the chili?
Certainly! To freeze, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. It will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat slowly on the stove, adding liquid as needed.
How can I adjust the spice level in the chili?
Very! Start with the recommended amounts of spices, particularly cayenne pepper. You can add more after a taste test, allowing you to control the heat. If you want to tone it down, skip the cayenne entirely or incorporate dairy (like yogurt) to balance the spice.
What can I replace great Northern beans with?
If you can’t find great Northern beans, don’t worry! Cannellini beans make an excellent substitute and offer a similar texture and flavor. You can also try black beans for a different color and taste, but be mindful that it will change the overall look and flavor profile of your chili.
Can I make this chili ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chili is perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together. Just prepare it on a Sunday and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Your future self will thank you!
Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe That's Healthier and Heartier
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with turkey or plant-based protein.
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth Vegetable broth works for vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced Can use shallots for milder flavor.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced Fresh garlic is best.
- 2 cups corn Frozen corn is convenient.
- 4 ounces canned diced green chilies Fresh chilies can be used for spicier flavor.
For the Beans
- 2 cans great Northern beans Each can is 15 ounces; cannellini beans can be substituted.
For the Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon cumin, ground Essential spice for chili flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano Fresh oregano enhances the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to spice preference.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper For added kick.
- 1 teaspoon salt Balances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper Freshly ground recommended.
For the Final Touch
- 1 small bunch cilantro, finely chopped Adjust amount based on taste preference.
- 1/2 cup plain or Greek yogurt Creamy topping.
- 1 lime juice of Brightens the dish.
For Serving
- tortilla chips For added crunch.
- avocado Optional for serving.
- more yogurt For topping.
- limes For serving.
Instructions
How to Make Ultimate High Protein White Chicken Chili
- Preheat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to unlock their full flavors and intensify the aroma.
- In a small bowl, mash 1 cup of the great Northern beans until smooth. This will add creaminess to your chili.
- Add the mashed beans, chicken broth, the remaining whole beans, corn, green chilies, and chicken breasts to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- After simmering, remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add lime juice, cilantro, and yogurt into the chili. Stir well until everything is combined and serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Notes
Nutrition
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