Bowl of Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans topped with fresh herbs.

Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans combines delicious flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a convenient cooking method. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend meal with family and friends. The tenderness of chicken combined with creamy white beans and tangy enchilada sauce creates a comforting dish that’s filling and satisfying. Plus, using an Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy. You’ll have a hearty, flavorful chili ready in no time, keeping everyone warm as they savor every bite.

how to make Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans

Making Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans is simple and quick. The pressure cooker method reduces the cooking time while ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.

Ingredients :

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1.5 chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, crushed
1 (28 ounce) can green enchilada sauce
2 cups dry great northern beans, sorted and rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
2 (4 ounce) cans chopped green chiles (such as Hatch®), undrained
1 tablespoon oregano
1 teaspoon cumin
1 cup shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend, or to taste
0.5 cup chopped cilantro, or to taste

Directions :

  1. Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot) and select the Sauté function. Pour in oil.
  2. Add chicken and sauté until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes more.
  4. Add enchilada sauce, dry beans, broth, green chiles, oregano, and cumin.
  5. Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions; set the timer for 45 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
  6. Release pressure using the natural-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions, at least 25 minutes to allow beans to fully cook.
  7. Unlock and remove the lid. Garnish chili with shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend and cilantro.

how to serve Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans

Serve the chili hot, garnished with the shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. You can accompany it with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can even be made in larger batches for a crowd.

how to store Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Instant Pot Yardbird Chili with White Beans

  • Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove any debris and ensure they cook evenly.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to match your heat preference. You can add more cumin or even some chili powder for extra kick.
  • If you like a thicker chili, consider mashing some of the beans after cooking.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding other ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or even different types of beans. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans. Reduce the cooking time to about 10 minutes, since canned beans are already cooked.

Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! You can add jalapeños, chopped hot peppers, or increase the amount of green chiles in the recipe to make it spicier.

Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for the ground chicken.