There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s a comforting low carb white chicken chili. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was looking for something hearty yet healthy, and oh boy, did this recipe deliver! It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings when you just want to cuddle up with a cozy blanket and a good book. The creamy texture, the gentle spice from the green chilies, and the satisfying taste of shredded chicken all come together to create a dish that’s not just food but pure comfort. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! You can have it on the table in about half an hour, which is fantastic for those busy nights. And the best part? You can customize it to suit your dietary needs, making it suitable for nearly everyone. Trust me, once you try this low carb white chicken chili, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best low carb white chicken chili. I’ve made sure to keep it simple and straightforward, so you can easily gather your ingredients and get cooking!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover chicken, or even a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained: Great for adding creaminess and protein. If you prefer, you can substitute with chickpeas for a different flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought is just fine too. Look for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened: This gives the chili its rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well too!
- 1 cup green chilies, diced: You can use fresh or canned. If you like it spicy, go for the hot variety!
- 1 onion, diced: Adds wonderful flavor. Yellow or white onions work best for this dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a lovely aroma; it’s worth the little bit of extra effort to mince it yourself!
- 1 tsp cumin: A key spice that adds depth to the chili.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adjust this to your taste for a little kick!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season as you go for the best flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This is for sautéing the onions and garlic. Feel free to use another oil if you prefer.
How to Prepare Low Carb White Chicken Chili
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful low carb white chicken chili! I promise it’s super easy, and I’ll walk you through every step. Just take your time, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil: In a large pot, place it over medium heat. This should take a minute or so. You want the oil hot enough to sauté the onions but not smoking, so keep an eye on it!
- Add the onion and garlic: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent. Wow, the smell will be heavenly! Just be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter if it gets too dark.
- Incorporate the chicken: Now, add your shredded chicken to the pot. Stir it in so it mixes well with the onion and garlic. This step adds so much flavor!
- Add in the rest of the ingredients: It’s time to add the drained white beans, chicken broth, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. You’ll want to bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, so keep an eye on it and adjust the heat if needed.
- Let it simmer: Allow the chili to simmer for about 15 minutes. This is when all those lovely flavors meld together. If you find it’s getting too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken broth!
- Stir in the cream cheese: After the simmering time is up, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated. It should become creamy and luscious—just perfect!
- Serve it up: Once everything is combined and heated through, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve the chili hot in bowls. You can garnish with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a sprinkle of cheese!
And there you have it! Your comforting low carb white chicken chili is ready to be enjoyed. Remember, cooking is all about having fun, so don’t stress too much. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be amazed at what you’ve created!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This low carb white chicken chili is not just another meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Here’s why you’re going to adore this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can have a hearty meal on the table without a fuss.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture and delicious blend of spices make every spoonful a delight.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits into many diets.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or swap in ingredients that suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option!
Once you try it, I promise you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. It’s simply that good!
Tips for Success
To make your low carb white chicken chili truly shine, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chicken and broth. If you have some homemade chicken broth lying around, that’s even better!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step develops the base flavor, so let them soften and become fragrant—it’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with Beans: While white beans are traditional, feel free to try black beans or even navy beans if you prefer. Just remember, different beans may alter the chili’s texture a bit.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of chili that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutrition, this low carb white chicken chili is a fantastic choice! Each serving is packed with protein and keeps the carbs low, making it great for many dietary needs. However, keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For a general idea, here’s a breakdown:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 15g
As always, it’s good to check your specific ingredients if you’re tracking nutritional information closely!
FAQ Section
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! While white beans are a classic choice for this low carb white chicken chili, you can definitely experiment with different types. Black beans or navy beans can be good substitutes, each bringing its own unique flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that if you use a bean that has a firmer texture, it might change the overall consistency of the chili a bit. But hey, cooking is all about making it your own, so feel free to try what you have on hand!
How do I store leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is often the case with this delicious chili!), it’s simple to store them. Just transfer the chili to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if you find it’s thickened up too much. Stir occasionally and heat until it’s warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but I recommend doing it in short intervals to avoid overheating!
Can I make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level in your low carb white chicken chili. You can add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you mix in the spices. If you really want to turn up the heat, consider tossing in some chopped jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce at the end. Just remember to taste as you go, so you can find the perfect balance for your palate!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your low carb white chicken chili is ready to be savored, let’s talk about some delightful ways to serve it! I love to top my chili with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor. Avocado slices or guacamole add a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the chili’s spices. If you’re in the mood for something cheesy, a handful of shredded cheese or crumbled queso fresco on top can elevate the dish even more!
As for sides, crispy tortilla chips are a fun option for dipping, or you could serve it alongside a simple green salad to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, consider some warm, low-carb cornbread or even cauliflower rice to soak up all that delicious broth. Each of these additions will make your chili experience even more enjoyable, so feel free to mix and match based on your cravings!
Equipment List
To make your low carb white chicken chili effortlessly, here’s a simple list of the equipment you’ll need. Don’t worry, it’s all very straightforward!
- Large Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for sautéing and simmering your chili.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: You’ll need this for stirring everything together and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the flavors just right!
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping your onion, garlic, and any toppings you’d like to add.
- Can Opener: This will come in handy for opening the can of white beans and green chilies.
With just these few items, you’ll be all set to create a delicious bowl of chili. Happy cooking!
Print
Comforting Low Carb White Chicken Chili for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A comforting low carb white chicken chili that warms your soul.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup green chilies, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft.
- Add shredded chicken, white beans, chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in softened cream cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Add more spices if you prefer a spicier chili.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: low carb white chicken chili, healthy chili, comfort food
