Name: Protein White Bean Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 cup sour cream (optional); 1 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chili to lift your spirits. That’s where my Protein White Bean Chicken Chili comes in! Packed with protein-rich chicken and creamy white beans, this dish not only fills you up but also delights your taste buds with its vibrant flavors. I remember cozy nights huddled on the couch, savoring every spoonful while snow fell softly outside. It’s that perfect comfort food that warms you from the inside out. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious meal that’s great for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for those chilly evenings! So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delicious chili that’s both satisfying and good for you!

Ingredients List

To make my flavorful Protein White Bean Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 cup onion, chopped

For serving, I recommend:

1 cup sour cream (optional, but it adds a creamy touch)
1 cup cilantro, chopped (optional for freshness)

These ingredients come together to create a hearty and protein-packed chili that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

How to Prepare Protein White Bean Chicken Chili

Now, let’s dive into the steps to prepare my delicious Protein White Bean Chicken Chili. It’s simple, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together!

Step 1: Cooking the Chicken

First, grab your large pot and heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. This step is crucial for adding that rich base flavor!

Step 2: Adding Aromatics and Spices

Next, add the chopped onion, cumin, and chili powder to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want the onions to become soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with those mouthwatering aromas. Trust me, this is the moment you’ll start getting excited!

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans along with the chicken broth. Give it a good mix to combine everything evenly. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

When you’re ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls. I love to top mine with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch. It adds a creamy and fresh contrast to the hearty chili. Enjoy it hot, and watch everyone go back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein: Packed with chicken and white beans, this chili provides a wholesome boost to your diet.
Simple to Prepare: With just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of spices and creamy beans delivers a warm, satisfying taste that’s perfect for chilly nights.
Versatile: Feel free to customize the spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences!
Freezes Well: Make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious meals ready for busy days ahead.

Tips for Success

To make your Protein White Bean Chicken Chili truly shine, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t rush the browning: Taking the time to brown the chicken properly adds depth to the flavor, so let it get a nice golden color!
Taste as you go: Adjust the spices to your liking. If you love heat, feel free to add some cayenne or jalapeños!
Let it rest: Allowing the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld even more.
Double the batch: This chili freezes beautifully, so consider making a larger batch for quick meals later.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a perfect pot of chili every time!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying my Protein White Bean Chicken Chili, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not just delicious but also nutritious! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 40g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 10g
Sodium: 600mg
Potassium: 800mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. This chili is a fantastic way to fuel your day with protein and fiber while keeping things cozy and satisfying!

FAQ Section

Can I use canned chicken?

Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a great time-saver for my Protein White Bean Chicken Chili. Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the pot. Since it’s already cooked, you can reduce the cooking time slightly, adding it in the last 10 minutes to heat through.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers of my chili are easy to store! Let it cool down completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating!

Can I customize the spices?

Definitely! One of the best parts of making this Protein White Bean Chicken Chili is personalizing the spice levels. Feel free to add more chili powder for heat, toss in some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or even throw in diced jalapeños. Make it your own!

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out my Pinterest page!