This light yet creamy white chicken chili is loaded with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and bright Southwestern flavors. It comes together in one pot with simple pantry ingredients for an easy, weeknight-friendly dinner.
1mediumjalapeño, seeded and mincedLeave some seeds for extra heat if desired
2teaspoonsground cumin
1teaspoondried oregano
0.5teaspoonground corianderOptional but adds brightness
0.5teaspoonchili powderOptional for a touch of warmth
4cupslow-sodium chicken broth
1.5poundsboneless skinless chicken breastsThighs also work
2canscannellini beans, drained and rinsed15-ounce cans
1candiced green chiles4-ounce can, mild or hot
1cupcorn kernelsFrozen or canned, drained
0.75cupplain nonfat Greek yogurtFor creaminess without heavy cream
2tablespoonsfresh lime juice
0.25cupfresh cilantro, chopped
1.25teaspoonskosher saltMore to taste
0.5teaspoonblack pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and jalapeño; cook, stirring, until softened, 4 to 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, cumin, oregano, coriander, and chili powder. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth. Add chicken breasts, 1 can of beans, diced green chiles, and corn. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer uncovered until chicken is cooked through and tender, 12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness.
Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks.
Thicken the chili: In a bowl, mash the remaining can of beans with a ladle of hot broth until mostly smooth (or blend). Stir this mixture back into the pot.
Return shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt until creamy. Do not boil after adding yogurt.
Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve hot with optional toppings like avocado, extra cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime.
Notes
For extra ease, swap the raw chicken with 3 cups cooked shredded chicken and simmer for 10 minutes. For dairy-free, omit yogurt or use unsweetened cashew yogurt. Adjust heat by adding more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. Chili thickens as it stands; add broth to loosen when reheating. Stores 4 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.