Low Carb White Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on the traditional chili that boasts all the comforting flavors you love but without the heavy carbs. Packed with tender chicken, creamy white beans (or a low-carb substitute), and a medley of spices, this dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. With its zesty flavor profile and creamy texture, this chili will warm you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this low carb white chicken chili recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! With a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, paired with tender chicken and creamy broth, each bite is a burst of savory goodness. Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly easy to cook, making it perfect for weeknight meals or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it fits seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle—providing a filling meal without the guilt of high-carb ingredients. This dish is sure to impress both family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and toss it in for a quick meal.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the spice levels by adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Thicken the Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, blend a small portion of the beans (or cauliflower if following strict low-carb) and stir it back into the pot for a creamy texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t skimp on the cilantro; it brightens up the dish and adds a fresh flavor that complements the chili perfectly.
Make Ahead Tips
This low carb white chicken chili is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. You can cook the entire chili and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance, storing them separately until you’re ready to cook. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with cauliflower or chickpeas and use vegetable broth to create a vegetarian white chili.
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp for a unique twist.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or oregano, to create your signature chili flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream towards the end of cooking for a richer, creamier chili.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb white chicken chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocados, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. For a colorful presentation, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top and serve with lime wedges on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or low-carb tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager complements the chili without overpowering it. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lime is refreshing. For sides, consider serving a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For dessert, a light berry salad or a piece of low-carb cheesecake would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep the chili longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large pot or Dutch oven to prepare this chili. If you prefer, you can also use a slow cooker. For those looking for a faster option, an Instant Pot can be a great alternative.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of sour cream and skip the cheese. If you need it nut-free, ensure that any additional toppings or sides do not contain nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider using fresh corn to add sweetness and texture to the chili. In the fall, adding pumpkin puree can create a seasonal twist. During the winter, use hearty greens like kale or spinach for extra nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Yes, you can absolutely use canned beans; just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the chili.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken? If using fresh chicken, cook for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. If using rotisserie chicken, simply heat it through.
- What can I substitute for the chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch, but broth will give the chili more flavor.
How To Make low carb white chicken chili recipe
Low Carb White Chicken Chili
Low Carb White Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on the traditional chili that boasts all the comforting flavors you love but without the heavy carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans (or low-carb substitute)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 avocado, diced (for topping)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot along with the chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the white kidney beans and heavy cream (if using). Allow the chili to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 449Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 131mgSodium 640mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 7gSugar 3gProtein 42g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this low carb white chicken chili is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Its flavors are versatile, and it can easily be tailored to fit your personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weekday meal, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and the satisfaction of knowing you’re indulging in a healthy yet delicious dish!