White Bean Chicken Breast Chili Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

White Bean Chicken Chili

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1 large onion, diced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• teaspoon chipotle pepper powder
• teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fine cornmeal
• 2 cups chicken broth, divided
• 2 (15 ounce) cans white beans, drained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• teaspoon white sugar, or to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• cup chopped green onions
• cup sour cream
• cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Heat 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, flip breasts, cover the pan, and cook until browned on the other side, about 5 minutes. Remove to a plate and allow to cool before chopping into cubes.
2. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir until the onion turns translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the ancho chili powder, cumin, flour, chipotle pepper powder, and oregano into the onion mixture. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cornmeal and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the drained beans and 1 more cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the cooled, cubed chicken breasts and bring the chili to a simmer.
7. Pour in the remaining cup of chicken broth. Season the chili with salt, black pepper, white sugar, and cayenne pepper to taste. Cook until the chili is heated through.
8. Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	410
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	41mg
Sodium	772mg
Total Carbohydrate	55g
Dietary Fiber	12g
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	29g
Vitamin C	7mg
Calcium	213mg
Iron	8mg
Potassium	1240mg

White Bean Chicken Breast Chili is a modern take on the traditional chili, offering a lighter, yet equally flavorful alternative to the classic beef-based chili. This hearty dish features tender chicken breast, creamy white beans, and a variety of aromatic spices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Origin and History

Chili, as we know it today, originated in the southwestern United States, with many variations across different regions. While the classic red chili often features ground beef or pork, the white bean chicken chili is a modern variation that emerged in response to the growing demand for lighter, healthier meals. This version swaps out beef for chicken and uses white beans instead of kidney or pinto beans, making it a great option for those looking for a less fatty alternative. Though its exact origins are unclear, it has gained popularity due to its ability to blend the warmth and comfort of traditional chili with a lighter, more refreshing profile.

Regional Variations

White bean chicken chili can be found in various forms across the United States, with regional variations depending on local tastes and available ingredients. For instance, in some parts of the Southwest, you may find this chili spiced with a generous amount of cumin, while others might add tomatillos or green chilies to introduce a tangy flavor. Some versions also incorporate corn for added texture and sweetness, while others focus on the richness of the beans and chicken. Despite these variations, the core of the dish remains consistent: tender chicken, creamy beans, and a flavorful, slightly spicy broth.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While white bean chicken chili shares some similarities with classic chili, there are notable differences. Traditional chili is typically made with beef or pork, often accompanied by red beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. White bean chicken chili, on the other hand, uses chicken breast as the primary protein and white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), which provide a creamier texture and a milder flavor. The spices used in this dish are also generally lighter, with an emphasis on ancho chili powder, cumin, and chipotle, providing a depth of flavor without overwhelming heat. This makes it a good option for those who prefer a less spicy chili.

Where Its Typically Served

White bean chicken breast chili is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. It is a popular choice for family dinners, as it is easy to make in large batches and can be kept warm in a slow cooker. Its also a favorite at potlucks and casual gatherings, where its mild spiciness appeals to a broad range of tastes. This chili can be served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges, and crunchy tortilla chips. It pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad, making it a perfect all-season dish.

Fun Facts

• White bean chicken chili is sometimes referred to as "white chili" to distinguish it from traditional red chili.
• This chili is often considered a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili because its lower in fat and calories, especially when made with lean chicken breasts.
• Many variations of this dish include different types of beans, such as navy beans or great northern beans, each bringing its unique texture and flavor to the dish.
• The combination of chipotle pepper and ancho chili powder in the recipe provides a smoky depth of flavor without the intense heat of traditional chili peppers.
• Some chefs experiment by adding a dash of cinnamon or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors and enhance the dish's complexity.

Whether youre looking for a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening or a hearty dish to serve at a gathering, white bean chicken breast chili is a delicious and satisfying choice. Its rich flavors, healthy ingredients, and flexibility make it a favorite in kitchens across the United States.

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