Description

Cozy up with this easy White Chicken Chili packed with tender chicken, white beans, spices, and creamy plant-based cheese for a comforting and hearty meal. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures with a smooth, creamy broth and a gentle spicy kick. Simple to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, it brings freshness and richness to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

2 cups chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Beans

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed

Aromatics

1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

Liquids & Sauces

4 cups chicken broth (natural)
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
2 tablespoons lime juice

Vegetables & Flavorings

1 can (4 oz) green chiles, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin (freshly ground recommended)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (freshly ground recommended)

Thickener & Creaminess

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (natural gelling agent)
1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or chopped

Fresh Garnishes

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the aromatics until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, laying the flavor foundation for the chili.
Add the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, ensuring tenderness and flavor absorption.
Incorporate Spices and Liquids: Sprinkle in cumin and oregano. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and diced green chiles. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow to cook for about 15 minutes to meld flavors.
Add Beans and Thicken: Drain and rinse the white beans. Add them to the pot. Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry, then stir it in gradually to thicken the chili to a velvety consistency without overpowering creaminess.
Finish with Cheese and Fresh Elements: Lower the heat and stir in the plant-based cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth. Squeeze in fresh lime juice and scatter chopped cilantro on top for a bright and refreshing finish.

Notes

Use freshly ground cumin and oregano for maximum flavor.
Let the chili simmer to deepen and blend the flavors.
Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Add the natural gelling agent slowly to avoid over-thickening.
Layer seasonings gradually and taste frequently to balance flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: White Chicken Chili, plant-based cheese, creamy chili, white beans, chicken chili, easy weeknight meal, comforting stew