One-Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe

Cook Time: 90 minutes

This flavorful Chicken and Bean Stew is a hearty dish perfect for any season. Packed with protein and a mix of savory herbs, it's a comforting meal that's easy to make and sure to please everyone around the table.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or to taste
• 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried chives
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 5 (14.5 ounce) cans great Northern beans, divided
• 14 fluid ounces water
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can chopped tomatoes
• 1 (12 ounce) jar salsa
• 1 cup sour cream

Directions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, garlic, chives, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Cook and stir the mixture for about 5 to 8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

Step 2: Add 3 cans of great Northern beans, water, chopped tomatoes, and salsa to the pot. Stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Stir in the remaining 2 cans of great Northern beans and the sour cream. Increase the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 25 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken.

Step 4: Once the stew has reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 10g (13% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (24% DV)
• Cholesterol: 42mg (14% DV)
• Sodium: 403mg (18% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 60g (22% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 14g (50% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 32g (64% DV)
• Vitamin C: 9mg (10% DV)
• Calcium: 232mg (18% DV)
• Iron: 7mg (38% DV)
• Potassium: 1221mg (26% DV)

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

This easy-to-make One-Pot White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Combining chicken breast, Great Northern beans, salsa, and a medley of herbs, this dish is a hearty yet light alternative to traditional chili recipes.

History of White Chicken Chili

The origins of White Chicken Chili can be traced back to the Southwestern United States, where chili is a beloved dish with a deep cultural history. Traditionally, chili was made with beef or pork, beans, and chili peppers, but the concept of a "white" version using chicken instead of red meats emerged in the 1980s. This variation gained popularity as people sought lighter, healthier alternatives to the classic chili. Its often considered a new take on a traditional American dish, bringing a creamier and less spicy alternative to the table.

Regional Variations of White Chicken Chili

While the basic concept of White Chicken Chili remains largely consistent, regional differences in ingredients and flavor profiles can be found. In the American Southwest, the dish may include a variety of fresh chilies, such as jalapeos or Anaheim peppers, adding a mild heat. On the West Coast, the use of avocados and fresh cilantro can give the chili a fresh, vibrant twist. In contrast, the Midwest may lean towards a more creamy version, with the addition of sour cream and cheese to thicken the broth and enhance the flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chili, which is often tomato-based and uses ground beef, White Chicken Chili is lighter, made with white beans and chicken. The absence of tomatoes gives the dish a different flavor profile, and the use of beans such as Great Northern beans adds a creamy texture. The salsa in the recipe introduces a mild, tangy flavor that further distinguishes it from its tomato-based counterparts. Another key difference is that White Chicken Chili is typically creamier due to the addition of sour cream, whereas classic chili is often more broth-based.

Where It Is Typically Served

White Chicken Chili is commonly served in homes, restaurants, and diners across the United States, especially during colder months when hearty, warming meals are desired. It's a popular choice for family gatherings, game day parties, or as a comforting weeknight dinner. You can often find it in Southwest-inspired restaurants or eateries that specialize in American comfort food. Additionally, it's frequently served as a main dish with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips to balance its richness.

Interesting Facts About White Chicken Chili

• Despite its name, White Chicken Chili doesnt contain any tomatoes, which makes it different from the classic red chili.
• The creamy texture of the chili comes from the use of sour cream, which is stirred in near the end of cooking to thicken the soup and add a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
• Some variations of White Chicken Chili incorporate corn, avocado, or lime to add a fresh contrast to the richness of the chili.
• The dish is a versatile one, allowing cooks to experiment with different beans and even adjust the spiciness by adding or omitting certain chili peppers.
• White Chicken Chili is often considered a healthier alternative to traditional chili due to the lean protein in chicken and the high fiber content from the beans.

Conclusion

One-Pot White Chicken Chili offers a lighter, creamy alternative to the traditional chili. Its unique flavor profile, the result of a combination of chicken, beans, and salsa, sets it apart from other chili dishes. Whether you're enjoying it in a cozy home kitchen or serving it at a party, this dish is sure to impress with its warmth, flavor, and versatility.

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