Creamy chili with white beans, tender chicken, subtle heat, and a flavorful secret for cold-weather comfort.
# Components:
→ Poultry
01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
05 - 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
→ Beans & Broth
07 - 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Dairy
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream
10 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
15 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Secret Ingredient
17 - 1/4 cup salsa verde (green tomatillo salsa)
→ Garnishes
18 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
19 - Sliced avocado (optional)
20 - Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional)
21 - Lime wedges (optional)
22 - Tortilla chips (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute longer.
02 - Stir in ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for 30 seconds until spices become fragrant.
03 - Add chicken breasts, diced green chiles, beans, chicken broth, salsa verde, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine.
04 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through.
05 - Remove the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot and mix well.
06 - Add softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until both are completely melted and the mixture is creamy. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with chosen garnishes such as cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, lime wedges, or tortilla chips.
