Weeknight White Chicken Chili

Get the ultimate cold weather comfort-food on a busy weeknight. 

This content uses Affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy for more info.

The Bean is making things disappear at her after-school Magic club. The MC and Coach Better Half are off to basketball practice number 1 followed by The Boy’s (and Coach Better Half again!) basketball practice number 2 later this evening. We are used to this hectic schedule and can normally squeeze a meal together in between the two practices, but crammed into the already busy evening schedule is The Boy’s 5th Grade Chorus Concert. We are hopping in two cars, planning our meeting places, arranging to swap kiddies, and eating dinner in shifts tonight.

A night like this definitely calls for a quick and healthy meal that stays warm all night in my favorite Le Creuset dutch oven.  My traditional tomato-based chili is usually made on the weekend when it’s able to cook all day. Tonight though, I need something that can be incredibly quick and easy so Weeknight White Chicken Chili it is!

What is it about winter weather that just brings on thoughts of warm bowls of chili? I could never say no to a loaded, hearty, comforting bowl of it.This White Chicken Chili can be on the dinner table in less than an hour. It’s a one pot meal that everyone will enjoy.In my pot, I sauté chopped onion and garlic in olive oil.For speed and convenience, I buy chicken tenders that I cut into small chunks right into the pot.

After the chicken has had a chance to brown for a bit and I’ve added some water to my pot, it’s all about the dump and the pour.Dump in the seasonings.Dump in the corn.Dump in half of the beans.Dump in the green chilis.While it is simmering and the chicken continues to cook, I add the other half of my white beans and the chicken broth to a blender. And chop, and mix, and stir and…pour!

Add some fresh lime juice for a little zing and that’s it!Now, bring all of this to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes and you’ll get this creamy, every-thing-you-love-about-chili tummy warmer meal.  The tender chicken, beans, and corn with a touch of spice will leave you smiling.

This bowl just hits the spot!

Customize your own garnishes to finish off the delicious warm bowl of chili! It is the perfect quick fix on a busy winter night and anyone can make it!

And a huge bonus, it will last for more than one day and what could be better than leftovers for another night that is bound to be busy too?

For another quick and easy weeknight soup, try my 30 Minute Chicken Parm Soup and my Quinoa Chicken Soup with Lemon and Dill!

Do you have a quick fix winter meal for a hectic night?

5 from 2 votes

Print

Weeknight White Chicken Chili

Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

50 mins

Total Time

55 mins

 

Get the ultimate cold weather comfort-food on a busy weeknight.

Course: Dinner

Servings: 6 -8

Author: Jen Seislove

Ingredients

• 1 medium white onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 packs of chicken tender strips
• 3 cups water
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• dash of cayenne pepper optional
• 64 ounce cans of white beans (4 cans) like cannellini, rinsed and drained
• 14 1/2 ounces low sodium chicken broth
• 16 ounce bag of frozen sweet corn
• 9 ounces cans chopped green chilis (2 cans)
• 3 tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice about 1 whole lime

Instructions

1. Saute onions and garlic in olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. When onions are translucent, add chicken that has been cut into small chunks.
3. Cook until lightly browned.
4. Add water and stir.
5. Add all dry seasonings, the corn, half the beans, and green chilis. Stir.
6. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is done.
7. In a blender, mix half of the beans and the chicken broth until smooth. Add to the pot.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until blended and creamy.
9. Serve with desired garnishes.

Recipe Notes

Cannellini beans or small white beans work well.
Serve with tortilla chips for a quick side option.
Garnish with toppings like sour cream, cilantro, jalapeño, shredded cheese, and avocado.

This content uses Affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy for more info.

Shop my favorite kitchen tools.