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White Chicken Chili

This white chicken chili is a hearty stew made with tender shredded chicken, cannellini beans, and a creamy broth flavored with cumin and garlic. The dish has a smooth, velvety texture and an inviting aroma, with a bright splash of lime adding freshness. It is simmered until the ingredients meld into a flavorful, comforting soup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, shredded after cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning the chicken
  • 1 cup diced onion yellow or white
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels optional
  • 0.5 cups sour cream for creaminess, optional
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice brightens the flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pot and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. Add diced onions to the same pot and sauté until transparent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.
  3. Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with the ground cumin. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
  4. Carefully remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in drained cannellini beans and corn kernels if using. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Stir in sour cream for creaminess and add lime juice. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes to incorporate all flavors.
  6. Serve the white chicken chili hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime if desired. Enjoy the smooth, hearty texture and warm aroma of this comforting dish!

Notes

Adjust seasoning with more lime or cumin to suit your taste. For a thicker chili, mash some beans before adding them back in. Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors deepen.