An alternative to the traditional beef chili, this hearty and healthy Chicken Chili Recipe is easy to make and inexpensive too. It is one of our family’s favorite weeknight meals and I know it will become a fast-favorite in your home too!

FOOD & RECIPES

Easy Chicken Chili Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 85 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenderloins; 14 oz corn (1 can, drained); 14 oz pinto beans (1 can, rinsed and drained); 14 oz white beans (1 can, rinsed and drained); 32 oz chicken broth; 16 oz green salsa; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt (adjust as necessary, we prefer 1/2 tsp); 1/4 tsp pepper (adjust as necessary, we prefer 1/2 tsp)

August 8, 2022

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Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

A friend of mine recently said how annoying it is when searching for an “easy” dinner recipe and the first thing you have to do is cut an onion. Her rule on easy recipes is, “If you have to break out the cutting board, it’s not easy enough.”

I had never thought of it that way, but I can definitely relate with the sentiment. There are just some days where you really don’t feel like cooking, but would still like to provide your family with something that resembles a homemade meal.

While I have made many variations of this, this is my go-to recipe for an easy white chicken chili. No chopping, dicing, or browning required! Loaded with protein heavy beans and chicken, this recipe will leave you feeling full without weighing you down.

Although perfect in the fall when the weather is cooler, this warm and satisfying meal is a perfect addition to your weeknight meal plan throughout the year.

Ingredients:

Unlike a creamy white chicken chili which relies on cream cheese for its flavor, this healthy chicken chili recipe uses green salsa and seasonings for a tasty and lighter alternative.

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins – chicken breasts are fine but take a little longer to cook through. If you are really short on time, a shredded rotisserie chicken will suffice.

• 14 oz. corn – 1 can, drained

• 14 oz. pinto beans – 1 can, rinsed and drained

• 14 oz. white beans – 1 can, rinsed and drained (cannellini is preferred, but any white bean will work)

• 32 oz. chicken broth

• 16 oz. green salsa – choose heat based on your personal preference. We use mild.

• 2 tsp. cumin

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp salt – adjust as necessary to taste (we prefer ½ tsp of salt)

• ¼ tsp pepper – adjust as necessary to taste

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat.

2. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for one hour, or until chicken is tender and cooked through.

3. Remove chicken and transfer to a cutting board. Shred chicken with two forks and return to pot.

4. Bring chili back to a simmer for additional 25 minutes.

5. Ladle chicken chili into bowls. This easy chicken chili recipe is delicious on its own, but can be served over rice or with toppings. Enjoy!

Additional Toppings:

While this easy chicken chili recipe is delicious on its own, adding some toppings takes it to a whole new level. Like with traditional chili, chicken chili tastes amazing with the addition of:

• Shredded cheese (cheddar cheese, Mexican blends, etc.)
• Sour cream (sub non-fat plain Greek Yogurt for a healthy alternative)
• Sliced avocado
• Cilantro
• Sliced jalapenos (use pickled for a milder heat)
• Hot sauce
• Sliced red onion
• Tortilla chips

Can You Make Chicken Chili in the Crockpot?

Yes! While the stovetop version is our preferred method for cooking chicken chili, you can definitely make it in the crockpot.

To white chicken chili in the crockpot, add the corn, beans, chicken broth, and salsa. Stir the seasonings into the bean mixture and then add the chicken.

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Remove chicken from crockpot and shred on a cutting board. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot on the “Keep Warm” setting for at least 15 minutes to blend all the flavors.

Can You Make Chicken Chili in Advance?

Absolutely! Chicken chili is one of those delightful meals that tastes even better the next day, so it is the perfect recipe to make in advance. After making it, allow it to cool to room temperature before putting it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Just reheat it on the stove or microwave, and dinner is served! Because of its flexibility, this is a a great meal option to bring to a family with a new baby or sick friend.

Can You Freeze Chicken Chili?

Of course! If you have leftovers or you are making it in advance, chicken chili can be stored in the freezer. To freeze the chicken chili, allow it to cool to room temperature before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep in the freezer up to 3 months.