If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that won’t weigh you down, you’ve got to try this low carb white chicken chili! It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a delicious weeknight dinner without the fuss. I remember the first time I made this chili; my family couldn’t stop raving about it! The creamy texture, the gentle warmth from the spices, and the heartiness from the chicken make it a staple in my kitchen. Plus, it comes together in just about 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, this chili is going to become your new favorite!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious low carb white chicken chili! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or you can cook your own chicken breasts ahead of time.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained: These add creaminess and a bit of texture. I prefer cannellini beans for their mild flavor.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies: This gives your chili a nice kick without being overwhelming. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more!
- 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just as well. It’s the base of your chili, so choose a flavor you love.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: This adds depth to the flavor. I usually go for a yellow onion, but white onions work too!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: This spice gives the chili a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Dried oregano adds a delightful herbal note. If you have fresh, you can use that too; just double the amount!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! Start with a pinch of each and adjust as you go.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing your onions and garlic. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil if you prefer!
Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process so much smoother. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Low Carb White Chicken Chili
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious low carb white chicken chili! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the time you’re done.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You’ll want to let it warm up for about 1 minute. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The smell is going to be heavenly—trust me!
Step 2: Add Spices
Now, it’s time to bring in those spices! Stir in the cumin and oregano, cooking for another minute. This is crucial because it helps release all those delicious flavors. Just keep an eye on them; you don’t want them to burn. Give them a good stir and let them mingle with the onions and garlic for that perfect aromatic base!
Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients
Next, add your shredded chicken, rinsed white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth into the pot. Make sure to stir everything together well, so it’s nicely combined. This is where the magic really starts to happen, and the colors will be so inviting!
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Now, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. You can always adjust later, so start with a pinch and crank it up if you need more. Bring your chili to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This will thicken it up and let all those flavors really develop. You can stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
When it’s ready, ladle your chili into bowls and get ready to enjoy! I love to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for that extra creaminess. Fresh cilantro or avocado slices also make fantastic toppings if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve it hot and watch everyone dive in—it’s going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Low carb and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice.
- Perfectly creamy and flavorful, thanks to the combination of spices and ingredients.
- Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable—add your favorite toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- One-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you!
Tips for Success
Making low carb white chicken chili is a breeze, but here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Use leftover chicken: If you have rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken, this recipe becomes even quicker and more convenient. Just shred it and toss it in!
- Adjust your spices: Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to play around with the spices. If you love heat, add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper!
- Experiment with beans: If you prefer a lower carb option, you can reduce the white beans or swap them for cauliflower rice for added texture and fewer carbs.
- Don’t skip the sauté: Sautéing the onion and garlic really enhances their flavors. Make sure they’re softened before adding the spices; it’s worth the extra minute!
- Keep it simmering: Letting the chili simmer for a good 20 minutes allows all those delicious flavors to meld together. Don’t rush this step!
- Store leftovers wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen and taste even better the next day!
- Reheat gently: When reheating, do it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it thickens up too much, just add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious chili. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious low carb white chicken chili. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This low carb white chicken chili is not only comforting and filling but also a great option if you’re watching your calorie intake. Enjoy this nutritious meal without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can even throw the frozen chicken into the pot with the broth and let it cook through before shredding—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I can’t find white beans?
No worries! You can substitute them with cannellini beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas if that’s what you have on hand. The chili will still be delicious!
How can I make this chili spicier?
If you’re a heat lover, feel free to add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. You could even toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet first, then add everything into your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. It’s an easy way to let those flavors meld beautifully!
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels on your chicken broth and any canned goods to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this chili?
It’s delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of low carb tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or even over cauliflower rice for a heartier meal. And don’t forget those toppings—cheese and sour cream are favorites!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your low carb white chicken chili is super easy, and it’s a great way to enjoy those delicious flavors again! Once your chili has completely cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure the lid seals tightly to keep it fresh!
If you want to save some for later, this chili freezes beautifully. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. I like to label mine with the date so I remember when I made it! Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid any condensation that could lead to freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chili, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, you can either warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave. If you’re using the microwave, heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If your chili has thickened up a bit during storage, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious low carb white chicken chili anytime! Happy eating!
Print
Low Carb White Chicken Chili: 5 Steps to Blissful Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious low carb white chicken chili recipe that’s perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in the cumin and oregano, cook for another minute.
- Add shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy your chili!
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker prep.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Top with cheese or sour cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: low carb white chicken chili, easy chili recipe, beginner chili
