I still remember the first time I made this Whole30 white chicken chili. It was a chilly evening in early fall, perfect for cozying up with a hearty, warm bowl of goodness. I had just embarked on my Whole30 journey, curious about the transformative power of whole foods, and I was eager to find recipes that would satisfy my cravings without compromising on flavor. This chili not only warmed me from the inside out but also filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that even my non-Whole30 friends couldn’t resist. As each spoonful melted in my mouth, I realized that I had stumbled upon a meal that would become a staple in my household, a nourishing hug in a bowl.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Duration: 45 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 350
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbs: 40 grams
- Fats: 9 grams
- Fiber: 10 grams
- Sugars: 2 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why You’ll Love This Whole30 White Chicken Chili
If you’re looking for a meal that brings all the cozy vibes without the guilt, then this Whole30 white chicken chili is your answer. It’s creamy without the cream, hearty without the heaviness, and packed with protein to keep you feeling satisfied. The combination of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and zesty green chiles creates a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds). Plus, it’s an easy one-pot wonder that requires minimal cleanup—a total win in my book!
The Complete Cooking Journey
This recipe is a delightful mix of sautéing, simmering, and seasoning that crafts a chili bursting with flavor. It starts with the basics: olive oil, onions, and garlic. As they sauté, you’ll get a glimpse of the incredible aroma that makes cooking so rewarding. The chicken, seasoned and tender, gets tossed back into the pot, soaking up all the delicious juices. And, of course, a squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro add that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes. This step is where the magic begins as the kitchen fills with a savory aroma.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Cook until they’re nicely browned on both sides, around 6-8 minutes, then remove them from the pot and set aside. We’re just getting started on building those flavors!
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Return to the pot and add the drained white beans, chicken broth, diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together to combine the ingredients beautifully. The mixture should look inviting and creamy already!
Step 4: Simmer with Care
Put the browned chicken back into the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb all those wonderful spices.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot once it’s cooked through. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot. The chicken should be tender, making this step a breeze!
Step 6: Add a Zesty Kick
Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning if necessary. This brightens up the chili and really elevates the flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Dish out the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. This is where you can admire your handiwork before diving in!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This chili is perfect on its own, but pairing it with a side of crispy plantain chips or a fresh avocado salad takes it to the next level. You could also serve it with a dollop of cashew cream if you’re feeling fancy.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
This white chicken chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, feel free to do so for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to your freezer-friendly container.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- When shredding the chicken, consider using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment; it’s a game changer!
- If you prefer a spicier chili, add more green chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Using homemade chicken broth can make a big difference in flavor, but store-bought works just fine!
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to customize this chili by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition. You can also switch out the beans for kidney or black beans if you prefer a different texture.
Reader Questions & Solutions
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Can I use frozen chicken?
- Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it longer until it’s fully thawed and cooked through.
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What can I substitute for white beans?
- Great alternatives include chickpeas or black beans, which will still hold up nicely in the chili.
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How do I make it spicier?
- Add more green chiles or sprinkle in some chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
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Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can! Sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
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What if I don’t have lime?
- You can use lemon juice instead, or even apple cider vinegar, which will add a nice tanginess.
Wrapping Up
There you have it—a simple yet deeply satisfying Whole30 white chicken chili that will have you craving healthy meals without feeling deprived. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and let the aromas fill your home. Cooking should be fun, nourishing, and enjoyable. So, roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!
Print
Whole30 White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Whole30
Description
A hearty and flavorful Whole30 white chicken chili that’s creamy without the cream and packed with protein, perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Cook until browned on both sides, around 6-8 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Add the drained white beans, chicken broth, diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Put the browned chicken back in and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the lime juice, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For a spicier chili, add more green chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper. This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
