30 Minute White Chicken Chili: Bold Flavors, Ultimate Comfort

I remember the first time I tried making a white chicken chili recipe. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I craved something hearty yet quick. I stumbled across a recipe that seemed to promise warmth and flavor, but my pantry was missing some ingredients. Determined not to let that stop me, I improvised with what I had on hand, leading to a delightful culinary discovery.

This 30 Minute White Chicken Chili quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The aroma of onions and jalapenos sizzling in olive oil filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that made every meal feel special. The blend of shredded beef and cannellini beans might not have been traditional, but it worked wonders, turning the dish into a comforting bowl of goodness.

With each bite, the flavors unfolded, from the mild heat of the jalapenos to the citrusy hint of lime juice. Making this chili not only satisfied my craving for a quick meal but also sparked a newfound appreciation for creative cooking. It’s amazing how a simple 30-minute recipe can transform into a cherished family favorite.

30 Minute White Chicken Chili

---

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Learn how to make a delicious 30 Minute White Chicken Chili with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Click to get cooking!

---

Ingredients

• – 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
• – 3 cups (720 ml) sweet Vidalia or yellow onion, peeled and diced small (about 2 medium/large onions)
• – 1 large jalapeno pepper, about 4 to 5 inches long, diced very small (the seeds are where the heat is concentrated; included or discard them based on preference)
• – 7 to 8 ounces (200-225 g) canned green chiles, don’t drain (I used mild heat)
• – 4 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
• – 32 ounces (960 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• – 4 cups (600 g) shredded cooked beef, (use about 1 whole store bought rotisserie beef to save time, your favorite leftover beef, or roast or cook your own beef – see Notes for recipe links)
• – two 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (see step 4 below about blending 1 cup (240 ml) of the beans with a splash of chicken broth or water)
• – 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lime juice
• – 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cumin
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt, or to taste
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) black pepper
• – 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) red chili flakes
• – 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground paprika, optional and to taste
• – 2/3 cup (160 ml) fresh cilantro leaves, finely minced
• – tortilla strips, chips, crackers, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and/or sour cream; all are optional for garnishing

---

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion, jalapeno, and green chiles, cooking for roughly 7 minutes or until the veggies start to soften, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every now and then.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the shredded beef, cannellini beans, and the blended bean mixture (blend 1 cup of beans with a little chicken broth or water until smooth and thick; add this to the pot), along with the lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, and optional paprika. Bring everything to a boil.
5. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 7 to 10 minutes. If the liquid seems too low or if you prefer a thinner consistency, add 1 cup of water or as needed; adjust the seasoning as necessary at the end. For a thicker chili, allow it to simmer longer until it reaches your preferred consistency.
6. Stir in the cilantro and let it cook for 1 more minute.
7. Taste the chili and adjust the salt to your liking. This will depend on the saltiness of the chicken broth, beans, and beef, as well as your personal taste. Make any additional seasoning adjustments as needed (such as more salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, lime juice, etc.).
8. Serve the chili in bowls, and if desired, top with tortilla strips, chips, crackers, avocado, cheese, and/or sour cream; enjoy immediately.
9. For storage, keep the chili airtight in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days or freeze it for up to 4 months.

Notes

• Try using low-sodium chicken broth to control the chili’s salt content for a healthier option.
• Experiment with black beans or kidney beans for added flavor and texture.
• Enhance the chili’s taste with a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: – White Chicken Chili, – Creamy Chicken Soup, – Spicy Chicken Stew, – Bean and Chicken Chili, – Jalapeno Chicken Soup

30 Minute White Chicken Chili: The Quick Comfort

Fundamentals

Creating a 30 Minute White Chicken Chili involves understanding the balance of flavors and textures. The key is to layer ingredients thoughtfully, starting with a base of aromatic vegetables that form the foundation of your dish. This recipe uses olive oil to sauté sweet Vidalia onions, jalapenos, and mild green chiles, creating a rich base that sets the tone for the dish.

The choice of protein also plays a crucial role. While traditional white chicken chili recipes might use chicken, this version calls for shredded beef, offering a hearty twist. The cannellini beans add creaminess, complementing the beef and providing a contrast to the spice from the jalapenos. Blending a portion of the beans with chicken broth results in a thicker, more luscious texture.

Preparation/setup

Begin by gathering your ingredients and preparing them for easy access. Dice the onions and jalapeno finely, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves, allowing them to release their full flavor when added to the pot. As you prepare the vegetables, remember to adjust the level of heat by deciding whether to include the jalapeno seeds.

Having your beef pre-cooked and shredded saves considerable time. You can use a store-bought rotisserie beef or leftover roast beef, adjusting the seasoning as needed. Drain and rinse the cannellini beans, reserving a cup to blend with a bit of chicken broth, which you’ll add later to thicken the chili.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chili

Technique

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, jalapeno, and green chiles, then sauté until the vegetables are tender and translucent. This process usually takes about seven minutes and is crucial for developing the base flavor of your chili. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Introduce the minced garlic, cooking it for an additional minute or two. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on the heat and stir frequently. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the chicken broth, shredded beef, and both whole and blended cannellini beans. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well mixed.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance the flavor of your 30 Minute White Chicken Chili, consider the spices. Cumin, oregano, and paprika bring warmth and depth, while lime juice adds a refreshing tang. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste, keeping in mind that different brands of chicken broth can vary in saltiness.

If you prefer a spicier chili, retain the jalapeno seeds or add extra red chili flakes. For those who like a milder version, remove the seeds and reduce the chili flakes. Remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s difficult to tone it down once added.

Perfecting Your 30 Minute White Chicken Chili

Perfecting Results

The beauty of this chili lies in its ability to adapt to your personal preference. If you find the consistency too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water. Let the chili simmer for an additional few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For a thicker version, let it cook longer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Incorporate the cilantro at the very end to preserve its freshness and vibrant color. This herb adds a burst of brightness to the dish, balancing the rich flavors of the beef and beans. Adjust the seasoning as necessary before serving, ensuring each bowl is perfectly balanced.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your chili lacks flavor, consider boosting it with additional spices or a splash of lime juice. A quick fix for overly spicy chili is to add a bit more broth or a dollop of sour cream, which can help mellow the heat. For those experimenting with different proteins, shredded chicken or turkey can be excellent substitutes.

For more inspiration on creating comforting dishes, take a look at this Mediterranean Style White Chicken Chili or explore the versatility of poultry with these Sous Vide Chicken Breasts with Lemon, Garlic, and Rosemary.

Serving and Storing Your Chili

Serving and Presentation

Serve your 30 Minute White Chicken Chili hot, garnished with tortilla strips, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. These toppings not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess, complementing the spices beautifully.

For an extra touch, consider pairing your chili with a side of freshly baked Amish White Bread. The soft, slightly sweet bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of your delicious chili.

Storage and Pairings

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to four months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to reach the desired consistency. For a quick weeknight meal, serve alongside these Crispy Chicken Strips for a satisfying combination.

If you’re planning a cozy dinner, round out the meal with a sweet finish by trying these delightful White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Their buttery texture and sweet-tart flavor provide a perfect contrast to the savory chili.

Conclusion

This 30 Minute White Chicken Chili proves that a quick meal can still be rich in flavor and comfort. By combining simple ingredients like shredded beef, cannellini beans, and a medley of spices, you create a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Its adaptability allows you to tailor it to your taste, ensuring it becomes a go-to recipe in your home.

Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or as part of a larger feast, this chili stands out for its ease and depth of flavor. Its ability to be stored and reheated means you can enjoy its comforting warmth whenever the craving strikes. Embrace the joy of quick, delicious home cooking with this versatile chili recipe, and explore more culinary adventures with GrandMmaDelights.

FAQs – 30 Minute White Chicken Chili