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Are you craving a hearty meal that can be made in one pot with minimal cleanup? Look no further than One-Pot White Chicken Chili. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a medley of spices to create a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings. With its rich flavor profile and numerous health benefits, this recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to savor a home-cooked meal without fuss. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a mouthwatering One-Pot White Chicken Chili that is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic source of protein and fiber.

Table of Contents

What Is One-Pot White Chicken Chili?

One-Pot White Chicken Chili is a creamy, savory blend of chicken and white beans traditionally spiced with cumin, garlic, and green chilies. Its popularity has grown due to its simplicity and robust flavor, resulting in a dish that is ideal for busy individuals and families alike. Unlike classic chili, which often features red beans and tomatoes, this version’s unique white ingredients provide a delightful twist while still being hearty and satisfying.

Quick Facts about One-Pot White Chicken Chili

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 kcal

One-Pot White Chicken Chili is packed with protein thanks to the chicken and beans, making it a nourishing option for lunch or dinner. Its creamy consistency often comes from the addition of sour cream or cheese, adding an indulgent layer to its healthy base.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) of chicken, minced garlic (3 cloves), chopped chives (1/4 cup), and herbs like oregano (1 tsp), thyme (1 tsp), basil (1 tsp), along with salt (1 tsp), pepper (1/2 tsp), and 1 bay leaf. Cook and stir until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes.
Stir in 3 cans (15 oz each) of great Northern beans, 2 cups of water, 1 can (14.5 oz) of chopped tomatoes, and 1 cup of salsa. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer, stirring occasionally for about 1 hour. This step enhances the flavors and melds the ingredients.
Stir in the remaining 2 cans (15 oz each) of great Northern beans and 1 cup of sour cream into the chili. Increase heat to medium-low and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 25 minutes. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Variations & Substitutes

Spicy Option: Add jalapeños for heat.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or jackfruit.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream.
Low-Carb: Skip the beans and add cauliflower for bulk.

Each variation adjusts the flavor and nutritional content, allowing you to cater the recipe to your dietary preferences and tastes.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Aim for just cooked through.
Skipping steps, like simmering, can result in bland chili.
Forgetting seasoning can dull the flavor. Always season in layers.
Adding too much liquid can dilute the flavors. Stick to the suggested amounts.
Not tasting while cooking prevents you from tweaking to perfection.

Checklist to Avoid Errors

Check chicken doneness regularly.
Simmer adequately for flavor integration.
Taste and season throughout the process.
Measure liquid accurately.
Adjust spices according to preference.

Storage & Reuse

One-Pot White Chicken Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, cool the chili completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to bring back the creamy consistency as it may thicken while stored.