Bowl of spicy white chili with chicken garnished with cilantro

Spicy White Chili with Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Spicy White Chili with Chicken is a delicious and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The flavors of chicken, beans, and spices come together to create a satisfying meal. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in just over an hour.

How to Make Spicy White Chili with Chicken

Ingredients :

1 tablespoon olive oil  
1 onion, chopped  
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped  
3 cloves garlic, minced  
4 cups chicken broth  
2 (15.5 ounce) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed  
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained  
1 cup corn kernels  
1 (7 ounce) can diced green chiles  
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro  
1 tablespoon lime juice  
2 teaspoons ground cumin  
1 teaspoon ground black pepper  
4 cooked chicken breast halves, cubed  
0.25 cup cold water  
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions :

  • Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic; cook and stir until onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Add chicken broth, Great Northern beans, garbanzo beans, corn, green chiles, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in chicken. Cover and simmer chili for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Whisk water and cornstarch together in a bowl. Stir this mixture into the chili and bring to a boil.
  • Cook and stir until the chili is thickened, about 5 minutes.

How to Serve Spicy White Chili with Chicken

Serve Spicy White Chili warm in bowls. You can top it with extra cilantro, diced avocado, or sour cream for added flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal that will please everyone.

How to Store Spicy White Chili with Chicken

To store leftovers, let the chili cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Spicy White Chili with Chicken

  • For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add more spices.
  • If you don’t have Great Northern beans, any white bean can work.
  • Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition.

Variation

You can make this chili vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. Add extra beans or tofu for protein.

FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw chicken. Just cook it in the saucepan with the onions and other ingredients until it’s fully cooked through.

2. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the onions, jalapeño, and garlic in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

3. Is this chili spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on how much jalapeño you use. You can also add more spices or include hot sauce for extra heat.