Creamy & Zingy Healthy White Chicken Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights

Whipping up a robust white chicken chili recipe can turn an ordinary meal into a nutritious celebration of flavor.

Creamy beans and tender shredded chicken create a comforting blend that warms you from the inside out.

Packed with protein and zesty spices, this dish offers a lighter alternative to traditional red chili.

Southwest-inspired ingredients dance together, promising a satisfying meal in every spoonful.

Lean protein and hearty beans make this chili a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.

Crisp toppings like fresh cilantro and diced green onions add a vibrant finish that makes you want to dig right in.

Grab a ladle and savor every delicious, nutritious bite.

Ingredients For Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and easily shredded during slow cooking.

• Great Northern Beans, Cannellini Beans: Creamy white beans that add texture and protein to the chili.
• Corn: Sweet kernels that provide a mild crunch and natural sweetness.
• Onion: Aromatic base that adds depth of flavor to the chili.
• Green Chiles: Mild peppers that contribute a subtle heat and tangy flavor.

• Garlic: Pungent ingredient that provides a robust and warm flavor profile.
• Cumin: Earthy spice that adds warmth and complexity to the chili.
• Chili Powder: Blend of spices that brings gentle heat and traditional chili flavor.
• Ground Coriander: Mild, citrusy spice that complements the other seasonings.
• Oregano: Herbaceous seasoning that adds a slight Mediterranean touch.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance overall taste.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional spice for those who want extra heat.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Creamy ingredient that adds richness and tanginess.
• Lime Juice: Bright, acidic element that freshens the final dish.
• Fresh Cilantro: Garnish that provides a fresh, herbal note.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Liquid base that adds moisture and additional flavor.

Step-by-Step Healthy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Base

Place chicken breasts in a large pot or slow cooker, creating the foundation for a hearty and nutritious white chili.

Step 2: Load Up Flavor Ingredients

• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Great Northern beans
• Cannellini beans
• Corn kernels
• Diced green chiles

Step 3: Create Spice Blend

• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Ground coriander
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Oregano
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in a slow cooker until chicken becomes incredibly tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Use two forks to shred the chicken directly inside the pot, creating delectable meat pieces throughout the chili.

Step 6: Add Creamy Texture

Stir in plain Greek yogurt until the chili transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step 7: Brighten with Citrus

Squeeze fresh lime juice into the chili, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Plate the hot chili and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a final touch of freshness and color.

Pro Tips For Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Skip the heavy cream and opt for protein-packed Greek yogurt to create a lighter, healthier version of white chicken chili without sacrificing creamy texture.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting cayenne pepper and green chiles, allowing everyone to enjoy their perfect spice balance.
• Reduce cooking time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, cutting preparation steps while maintaining delicious flavor profile.
• Transform this recipe into a meal-prep friendly dish by storing portions in airtight containers for easy weekday lunches that stay fresh up to 4 days.
• Boost nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini during the cooking process for increased vitamins and fiber.

Flavor Variations For Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Vegetarian Bean Fiesta: Replace chicken with extra firm tofu or tempeh, doubling the beans and adding roasted bell peppers for protein-packed plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Southwest Kick: Increase cayenne pepper, add diced jalapeños, include smoked paprika for more intense heat and deeper flavor profile.
• Green Chile Chicken Fusion: Incorporate roasted green chiles, swap Greek yogurt with Mexican crema, sprinkle queso fresco on top for authentic southwestern essence.
• Creamy Poblano Version: Roast poblano peppers, blend them into sauce, use cream cheese instead of Greek yogurt for richer, more indulgent texture.

Serving Ideas For Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Sprinkle crispy tortilla strips for added texture.
• Chop fresh cilantro and squeeze extra lime juice for bright, tangy notes.
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creamy contrast.
• Ladle chili over warm brown rice or quinoa.
• Pair with warm cornbread for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra virgin olive oil for richness.
• Serve chili over crisp mixed greens.
• Add diced avocado for healthy fats.
• Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
• Spread chili over crispy tortilla chips.

Best Ways To Store Healthy White Chicken Chili

• Transfer cooled chili to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring a tight seal to maintain freshness and prevent flavor absorption from other foods.
• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months, labeling with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming, adding a splash of chicken broth if the chili seems too thick.

FAQs

• Is this chili spicy?

The heat level depends on your cayenne pepper amount. Add a pinch for mild warmth or more for extra kick.

• Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken work great as substitutes for chicken breasts.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Add an extra can of beans or stir in additional Greek yogurt for increased protein content.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Why Healthy White Chicken Chili Is Perfect

• Hands-Free Cooking: Unleash the magic of slow cookers that transform complex meals into a stress-free experience without constant monitoring.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort: Blend rich spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create a deeply satisfying meal that warms hearts and tantalizes taste buds.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Adapt toppings and ingredients to suit different preferences, making this chili perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings.
• Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Combine protein-rich ground beef, fiber-packed beans, and vegetables for a balanced, hearty meal that nourishes and delights everyone at the table.

Healthy White Chicken Chili Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty white chicken chili delivers comfort and nutrition in one delightful bowl. Mexican-inspired spices and lean protein create a balanced meal perfect for chilly evenings. Diners will savor each nourishing spoonful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups (946 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 oz or 425 g each) great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) corn, drained
• 2 cans (4 oz or 113 g each) diced green chiles
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Position whole chicken breasts in a spacious pot or slow cooker, ensuring even placement.
2. Incorporate aromatic diced onions, pungent minced garlic, protein-rich great Northern beans, creamy cannellini beans, sweet corn kernels, and zesty green chiles into the cooking vessel.
3. Gently cascade low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients, then sprinkle a harmonious blend of cumin, chili powder, ground coriander, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, robust oregano, and optional fiery cayenne pepper.
4. Secure the lid and allow the mixture to simmer on low temperature for 6-8 hours (or 3-4 hours on high setting in a slow cooker) until chicken reaches tender perfection.
5. Using two forks, methodically shred the cooked chicken directly within the pot, creating delicate, uniform strands.
6. Introduce tangy plain Greek yogurt, stirring thoroughly to transform the chili into a luxuriously creamy consistency.
7. Brighten the flavor profile by squeezing fresh lime juice and integrating it seamlessly throughout the chili.
8. Ladle the steaming chili into serving bowls and garnish with vibrant, chopped fresh cilantro for a final aromatic touch.

Notes

• Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for a vegan version.
• Reduce sodium by using homemade low-sodium chicken broth or water with additional spices.
• Boost protein content by adding quinoa or extra beans during the cooking process.
• Control spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper and chili powder according to personal heat tolerance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 2 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg