White Chicken Chili with Rice Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This hearty and flavorful chicken and vegetable soup is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and rice, its a nutritious and filling dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds roasted chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups hot water
• 2 (14 ounce) cans fat-free chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can navy beans
• 2 (5.6 ounce) packages creamy chicken-flavored rice mix (such as Knorr Rice Sides)
• head broccoli, coarsely chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks

Directions

1. In a large Dutch oven, combine the roasted chicken, hot water, chicken broth, navy beans, creamy chicken-flavored rice mix, broccoli, carrots, and red bell pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are tender.
4. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice mixes well with the broth and vegetables.
5. Once everything is cooked through, serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	225
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	56mg
Sodium	320mg
Total Carbohydrate	11g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	22g
Vitamin C	22mg
Calcium	44mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	309mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

White Chicken Chili with Rice is a comforting and creamy dish that has quickly become a favorite in many homes across the United States. Combining tender chicken, beans, rice, and an array of vegetables, it offers a lighter take on traditional chili while retaining all the flavor and satisfaction of a hearty meal. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, as it is both simple to prepare and sure to please a crowd.

Origin and History

White Chicken Chili is a relatively modern variation of traditional chili, which originated in the American Southwest. Unlike the classic red chili that uses tomatoes and beef, white chili substitutes these ingredients with chicken and white beans, creating a lighter but equally flavorful alternative. The dish began to gain popularity in the 1990s, particularly in the southwestern United States, where it was introduced as a healthier and milder option compared to its spicy counterpart. As it evolved, recipes began incorporating a variety of ingredients, including rice, which adds a comforting texture to the dish.

Regional Features

While White Chicken Chili is enjoyed nationwide, it has particular significance in the southwestern U.S., where chili is a staple of local cuisine. The use of white beans, chicken, and the absence of tomatoes is characteristic of the region's preference for lighter, more aromatic stews. The dish is often seasoned with spices like cumin, garlic, and oregano, which are prevalent in Southwestern cooking. Additionally, the use of rice as a filler ingredient adds a regional twist, drawing from the areas tradition of combining rice with various stews and soups.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets White Chicken Chili apart from other chili variations is its distinctively lighter flavor profile. Traditional chili uses ground beef or pork, tomatoes, and red beans, making it a hearty, rich dish with deep, savory flavors. In contrast, White Chicken Chili replaces beef with chicken and opts for white beans (like navy or cannellini beans) instead of the more commonly used kidney beans or pinto beans. Furthermore, it typically lacks the tomatoes that give red chili its bright red color and tangy taste. The result is a milder, creamier dish that still delivers plenty of comfort but with less heaviness.

Where Is It Typically Served?

White Chicken Chili with Rice is often served in casual settings such as family dinners, potlucks, or during cozy gatherings. Its a popular choice for weeknight meals because it is quick to prepare, requiring only about 40 minutes from start to finish. The dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips and can be topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. Its also a hit during the colder months, offering a warm and filling option to combat chilly weather. You can often find it featured on the menus of restaurants that specialize in southwestern or Tex-Mex cuisine.

Interesting Facts

• The inclusion of rice in White Chicken Chili is a nod to the many stews and soups in southwestern cuisine that utilize rice as a thickener and texture enhancer.
• Although White Chicken Chili was popularized in the United States, variations of chili with beans and poultry have existed for centuries in various parts of the world, particularly in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine.
• Some variations of White Chicken Chili are made with a creamy base, often using sour cream or cream cheese, which gives the dish a rich, velvety texture.
• The dish is often made in large batches, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Leftovers can be stored and enjoyed for several days.

FAQ about White Chicken Chili with Rice Recipe

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