White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe packed with shredded chicken, white beans, corn, and spices — a warm, comforting bowl that’s simple to cook.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Small bowl (for prepping ingredients)
- Citrus juicer
- Potato masher (for slightly crushing beans)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed
- 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 can mild green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ cup plain yogurt or light cream optional for extra creaminess
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1 — Build the Flavor Base
- Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and slightly golden. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly — just until fragrant. This step sets the entire tone of the dish.
Step 2 — Add Chicken and Beans
- Stir in shredded chicken and white beans. Let them warm up together for a minute or two so the flavors begin mingling.
Step 3 — Pour in Liquids
- Add chicken broth, corn, and green chilies. Stir gently to combine. The pot should look hearty but soupy at this stage.
Step 4 — Season
- Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5 — Simmer and Thicken
- Let the chili cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. Mash a small portion of beans against the pot wall — this thickens the texture naturally.
Step 6 — Finish and Brighten
- Turn off heat and stir in lime juice and yogurt or cream if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 7 — Serve
- Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro, cheese, or avocado. Serve warm.