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Creamy Freezer White Bean Chicken Chili

Creamy Freezer White Bean Chicken Chili - featured image
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A quick, one-pot comfort food made with frozen chicken thighs and white beans that naturally thicken into a creamy sauce without dairy. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (frozen or thawed)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder blend
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt; cook until translucent (4-5 minutes).
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  3. Add cumin, chili powder, and oregano; stir constantly for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add chicken thighs and green chiles. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until chicken is cooked through (20-25 minutes for frozen thighs, 15-20 for fresh). Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  6. Remove chicken from pot and shred using two forks. Discard skin/fat and set aside.
  7. Mash about one-third of the white beans directly in the pot with a potato masher or spoon.
  8. Stir in remaining whole beans and shredded chicken. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken.
  9. Stir in lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add more broth if too thick, or simmer longer if too thin.

Notes

Mashing a portion of the beans creates a creamy texture without dairy. If using fresh chicken breasts, check for doneness earlier to prevent drying out. This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. For a spicy version, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken chili, white bean chili, creamy chili, one pot meal, freezer friendly, gluten free, healthy comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/creamy-freezer-white-bean-chicken-chili-5-ingredient-easy-meal/