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Protein White Chicken Chili Recipe

4.7 from 105 reviews

This Protein White Chicken Chili is a creamy, hearty, and nutritious chili made with shredded chicken, white beans, corn, and a blend of spices. Unlike traditional chili, it skips tomatoes and beef, opting instead for a lighter yet protein-packed version perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, and freezer meals. Topped with avocado, cilantro, and cheese, this dish offers a comforting yet energizing meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained & rinsed
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced avocado
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Lime wedges
  • Extra cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Beans, Chicken & Spices: Stir in the drained cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, shredded chicken, diced green chilies, corn, and chicken broth. Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the chili for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors and prevent sticking.
  4. Make It Creamy: Stir in the plain Greek yogurt and shredded cheese. Continue simmering for 5 more minutes until the chili becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of fresh cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, lime wedges, or extra cheese for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • You can make this chili in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients except for the Greek yogurt and cheese; cook on low for 6-7 hours and stir in dairy before serving.
  • Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut to save time.
  • You can substitute dry beans if you cook them beforehand.
  • For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt and cheese with coconut milk.
  • Adjust spiciness with extra jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce as desired.
  • This chili freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
  • For a low-carb version, omit beans and corn and add more chicken and vegetables like zucchini.

Keywords: white chicken chili, high protein chili, healthy chili, chicken and bean chili, creamy chili, one pot meal, meal prep chili