White Bean Chicken Chili

A cozy, clean, and modern heirloom take on a beloved bowl of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Chili

This white bean chicken chili is everything a weeknight meal should be: simple, soulful, and deeply satisfying. With tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, warm spices, and a hint of brightness from lime and herbs, it strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh.

It’s a dish that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. Just real ingredients and a little time on the stove. Whether you’re feeding your family or stocking the fridge for the week, this chili brings that from-scratch feeling without overcomplicating your evening.

Ingredients

Base

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles

Spices

1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Chili Core

2 (15 oz) cans white beans (Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
2½ cups chicken broth
2½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado slices
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
Tortilla strips or cornbread
Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

2. Layer the Flavor

Add the green chiles and all spices: cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, and optional cayenne. Stir and let cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

3. Build the Chili

Stir in the white beans, chicken, and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Thicken and Brighten

Use a spoon or potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans in the pot, thickening the broth. Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes for extra flavor and color.

Kitchen Betty Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing depth.
Add a handful of spinach at the end for a pop of green and nutrients.
Make it vegetarian with veggie broth and roasted cauliflower or jackfruit.
Freezes well for up to 2 months — perfect for meal prep.

Pairing Ideas

Skillet cornbread with flaky salt
Buttered sourdough toast
A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc
Cozy socks and your favorite soup spoon

Final Note

Modern heirloom meals don’t need to be complicated — just thoughtful, nourishing, and made with care. This chili brings together clean ingredients and warm flavors in a way that feels both rooted and refreshed.