Ever craved a warm, comforting bowl of chili that satisfies your hunger without compromising your health goals? As winter approaches, there’s nothing quite as soothing as a steaming bowl of High Protein White Chicken Chili that’s both hearty and nutritious. This delicious twist on traditional chili is perfect for health-conscious food lovers and those following a white chicken chili keto diet. By making this recipe at home, you’ll control the ingredients, customize the flavors to your preference, and create a protein-packed meal that supports your dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
High Protein White Chicken Chili Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 green chilies, diced
– 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and diced (optional for extra heat)
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– ½ teaspoon white pepper
– 4 cups chicken bone broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (substitute with cauliflower florets for keto)
– 8 ounces cream cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Kitchen Tools:
– Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
– Wooden spoon
– Cutting board
– Chef’s knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Can opener
– Blender or immersion blender (optional for creamier texture)
– Ladle for serving
High Protein White Chicken Chili Prep & Cooking Time
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
This recipe is perfect for weekend batch cooking or a weeknight dinner if you prep some ingredients ahead. The active cooking time is minimal, with most of the hour being simmer time where you can attend to other tasks.
How to Make High Protein White Chicken Chili
1. Season and prepare chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, green chilies, and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add spices: Stir in cumin, oregano, coriander, and white pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return chicken and simmer: Add the seared chicken back to the pot along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
6. Shred chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
7. Add beans and dairy: Stir in white beans (or cauliflower for white chicken chili keto version), cream cheese, and heavy cream. Simmer for another 15 minutes until the High Protein White Chicken Chili thickens.
8. Finish with fresh elements: Just before serving, stir in cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
High Protein White Chicken Chili Nutritional Benefits
This protein-rich chili provides approximately 35g of protein per serving, making it ideal for muscle recovery and satiety. The chicken delivers lean protein while beans offer fiber and additional protein (or cauliflower adds vitamins and minerals in the keto version). The dairy components provide calcium and vitamin D, while the spices like cumin and coriander contain anti-inflammatory compounds. Green chilies are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, boosting your immune system during colder months.
High Protein White Chicken Chili Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips
– Slow Cooker Method: Place all ingredients except cream cheese, heavy cream, cilantro, and lime juice in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred chicken and add remaining ingredients for the last 30 minutes.
– Instant Pot Version: Use the sauté function for the first steps, then pressure cook for 15 minutes with a natural release.
– Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
– Extra Protein Boost: Add a scoop of unflavored protein powder when adding the dairy components.
– Bean Alternatives: For lower carbs, replace beans with diced zucchini or more cauliflower.
High Protein White Chicken Chili Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking the chicken: This leads to dry, rubbery meat. Cook just until tender.
2. Adding dairy too early: This can cause curdling. Always add dairy products toward the end of cooking.
3. Not allowing flavors to develop: This chili tastes even better the next day, so don’t rush the simmering process.
4. Skimping on spices: Taste and adjust seasonings before serving for the most flavorful result.
High Protein White Chicken Chili Storage & Reheating Tips
Store cooled chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the chili seems too thick after storage. Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious High Protein White Chicken Chili at home gives you the perfect balance of comfort food satisfaction and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re following a white chicken chili keto approach or simply looking for a protein-rich meal, this versatile recipe adapts to your dietary needs while delivering incredible flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy texture, and warming spices makes this dish a year-round favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try this week and discover your new favorite comfort food with health benefits!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What can I serve with white chicken chili?
For regular diets, cornbread or tortilla chips complement this chili perfectly. For keto diets, try keto-friendly cheese crisps, sliced avocado, or a side salad.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop for best results.
Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?
Yes, simply skip the chicken cooking steps and add about 4 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken when you would normally return the chicken to the pot.
How can I make this chili spicier?
Keep the seeds in the jalapeño, add a diced serrano pepper, incorporate cayenne powder to taste, or serve with hot sauce on the side for customizable heat levels.
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