This white chili is a warm and creamy dish packed with tender chicken, white beans, and a hint of spice. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days!
I love topping mine with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s so good, you might just want to eat it straight from the pot! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing due to its mild flavor, but you can switch it for avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works best for a nice flavor. If you’re low on onions, try shallots for a slightly milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
Ground Chicken/Turkey: I love using chicken for its light flavor. If you prefer something richer, ground pork works well too. For a vegetarian option, consider crumbled tofu or a meat substitute.
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans are perfect in this recipe. If you don’t have those, navy beans can be a good alternative.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat based on your preference. If you like mild chili, try green bell peppers instead, or use serrano peppers for more heat.
Cilantro: This adds a fresh touch on top, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can be a nice substitute. You can also skip the garnish altogether!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Sautéing Ingredients?
Sautéing the onions, garlic, and jalapeños is crucial. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil on medium heat before adding the veggies. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add diced onions first and let them cook for a few minutes until translucent.
- Next, add the garlic and jalapeños. Garlic cooks faster, so this prevents it from burning.
- Keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, and watch for that lovely aroma! This usually takes about 5 minutes.
With this technique, your chili will have a fuller, richer flavor that everyone will love!
How to Make White Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
- 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making an approximate total of 40 minutes to enjoy a delicious bowl of white chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add in the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeños. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and transparent. This will give a wonderful base flavor to your chili!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground chicken or turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown and become no longer pink. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Add Spices:
Once the meat is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute until the spices are fragrant, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!
4. Combine Your Ingredients:
Now, carefully pour in the chicken broth and add the drained white beans and frozen corn if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
5. Simmer and Let Flavor Develop:
Increase the heat until the mixture starts boiling. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and thicken the chili slightly.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, stir in the lime juice for a refreshing zing! Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot chili into bowls and add your favorite garnishes: a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for an extra touch. Enjoy your comforting bowl of white chili!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground chicken or turkey is recommended for a lighter option, you can also use ground beef or pork for a richer flavor. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you’d like more heat, try adding more jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce when mixing in the spices. Adjust according to your personal heat preference!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chili and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Should I Serve with My White Chili?
White chili pairs nicely with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. Don’t forget your favorite toppings like avocado or shredded cheese!
