White Chicken Chili With Cannellini Beans
Warm up with this creamy white chicken chili featuring tender chicken and hearty cannellini beans. A comforting classic perfect for chilly nights!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring Spoons/Cups
- Ladle
- Serving Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast (skinless, diced)
- 15 oz cannellini beans (1 can)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion (medium, diced)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 4 oz green chiles (1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tsp cumin (ground)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- cilantro (fresh, for garnish)
- lime wedges (for serving_
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables and SpicesTo kick off the preparation process, gather your cutting board, knife, and measuring cups. It's time to plunge into vegetable prep and spice selection for your creamy white chicken chili.Start by dicing the onion into small, uniform pieces. Don't forget to mince the garlic cloves finely – they'll pack a punch of flavor! As you're chopping, why not take a moment to appreciate the fresh aroma filling your kitchen?Next, measure out your spices. The cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika will give your chili its distinctive flavor profile. Have you considered adding a pinch of cayenne for extra heat? Now's the time to get creative!Open the can of green chiles and drain the cannellini beans, giving them a quick rinse. These ingredients will add texture and depth to your chili.
- Cook Chicken With SpicesThe sizzle of oil in your pot signals the start of cooking your chicken with aromatic spices. You're about to begin a culinary journey that'll transform simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. As you add the diced chicken to the hot oil, listen for that satisfying sizzle. It's music to a chef's ears, isn't it?Now, it's time to release the power of spice combinations. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Can you smell that enticing aroma? These spices aren't just for flavor; they're the heart and soul of your chili.As you stir, watch the chicken turn from pink to golden brown. This is where your cooking techniques come into play. Keep the heat medium, stirring occasionally to guarantee even cooking.Don't rush this step. Give the chicken time to absorb those spices, about 5-7 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's no longer pink in the center. Remember, patience is key in creating depth of flavor. Isn't it amazing how a few simple spices can elevate your dish?
- Add Beans and ChiliesAs you reach for the canned beans and chilies, your chili's transformation begins. You're not just adding ingredients; you're infusing your dish with nutritional benefits and flavor enhancement that'll take it to the next level.Drain and rinse those cannellini beans - they're packed with protein and fiber, making your chili heartier and more satisfying. Don't you love how they'll absorb all those delicious spices?Now, it's time for the green chilies. These little powerhouses bring a mild heat and tangy flavor that'll dance on your taste buds.As you stir them in, imagine how they'll complement the chicken and beans. You're creating layers of flavor that'll make your chili unforgettable.
- Add Broth and SimmerReaching for the chicken broth, you're about to transform your chili from a mixture of ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful dish. As you pour in the liquid gold, consider the broth benefits: it's not just adding moisture but infusing your chili with depth and richness.Ever wondered why simmering is so essential? It's all about the magic of slow cooking.Now, let's talk simmering techniques. You'll want to bring the chili to a gentle bubble, not a rolling boil. Why? It's the key to tender chicken and perfectly melded flavors.As you watch the steam rise, imagine the aroma filling your kitchen. Isn't it tempting to dig in right away? But patience pays off here. Give it about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when the real alchemy happens – flavors mingling, spices blooming, and chicken becoming irresistibly tender.Are you noticing how the consistency is changing? That's the sign of a chili coming together beautifully. Remember, the longer you simmer, the more intense the flavors become.Ready to take your chili game to the next level?
- Add Cream, Simmer GentlyNow's the moment to elevate your chili to creamy perfection. You've simmered your ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld, but it's time to take it to the next level. Grab that cup of heavy cream and get ready to transform your chili into a velvety delight.As you pour in the cream, notice how it swirls through the chili, creating mesmerizing patterns. Doesn't it look inviting already? Gently stir to incorporate the cream evenly, ensuring every spoonful will be luxuriously smooth. Remember, cream incorporation is key to achieving that perfect consistency you're after.Now, it's time for some gentle simmering. Lower the heat to maintain a barely-there simmer, letting those flavors continue to develop without risking separation.As you watch the chili bubble softly, take a moment to appreciate the aroma. Can you smell the enticing blend of spices and cream? Give it a taste – does it need a touch more seasoning? This is your chance to perfect the flavor profile.After about 5 minutes of gentle simmering, your creamy white chicken chili will be ready to serve and savor.
- Add Toppings and ServeThe final step in preparing your creamy white chicken chili is to add toppings and serve. This is where you get to personalize your dish and make it truly your own. Have you considered the variety of topping ideas that can elevate your chili?Start with classics like shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado. For a burst of freshness, sprinkle on some chopped cilantro or sliced green onions. Craving a bit of crunch? Crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions are excellent choices.When it comes to serving tips, presentation matters. Ladle your chili into deep bowls to showcase its creamy texture. Set up a toppings bar, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.Don't forget to provide lime wedges on the side – a squeeze of citrus can brighten the flavors beautifully. For a fun twist, serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa.And remember, this dish pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or cornbread. Ready to dig in? Grab a spoon and savor your homemade creation!
Nutrition
Calories: 319kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 23gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 902mgPotassium: 393mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 795IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 89mgIron: 2mg