The warmth of this Spicy White Bean Chicken Chili hits all the right notes. With a rich broth infused with spicy salsa verde, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chiles, every spoonful is bold, zesty, and deeply comforting. Tender shredded chicken and creamy white beans create the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s freezer-friendly and meal prep approved. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or looking for a cozy solo dinner, this chili comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes even better the next day. Top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for an irresistible finishing touch.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
2 tablespoons avocado oil
-
3/4 cup yellow onion, diced (1/4″ pieces)
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon cumin
-
1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
-
2 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or high quality)
-
18 ounces hot salsa verde (Mrs. Renfro’s used in testing)
-
16 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes
-
7 ounces canned green chiles
-
3/4 cup frozen corn kernels
-
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
-
15 ounces white beans, rinsed (e.g., cannellini or Great Northern beans)
-
Optional: Cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced fresh tomatoes for garnish
Directions:
-
Heat a heavy-bottomed 5-quart pot over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes.
-
Add avocado oil, onion, garlic, and half of the salt. Sauté until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
-
Stir in oregano and cumin, cooking for 1 more minute.
-
Add chicken broth, salsa verde, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
-
Taste and adjust salt if needed.
-
Add corn, chicken, and white beans. Cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Serve hot with optional garnishes of cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh diced tomatoes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 238 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Flavor Profile and Key Characteristics
One of the standout elements of this chili is its depth of flavor despite its relatively short cooking time. The combination of onion, garlic, cumin, and oregano creates a savory base, while the salsa verde and green chiles deliver heat and tang that elevate the dish beyond a traditional soup. Fire-roasted tomatoes add subtle smokiness and acidity that complement the creamy texture of the white beans. Using chicken instead of beef or pork lightens the dish, making it ideal for those seeking a hearty yet leaner option. The corn adds a subtle sweetness and textural contrast, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
Why It’s a Go-To Weeknight Meal
What sets this dish apart for many home cooks is its speed and simplicity. With a prep time of around 10 minutes and a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight wonder that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. It’s also a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup—another major bonus for busy households. Using cooked chicken, either from leftovers or a store-bought rotisserie, shaves off additional time without compromising taste. This chili is ideal for meal prepping, too, as it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or packing into lunch containers.
Nutritional Value and Dietary Benefits
Nutritionally, this dish strikes a balance between comfort and wholesomeness. Chicken provides lean protein, while white beans add fiber, complex carbohydrates, and additional plant-based protein. The use of avocado oil instead of butter or lard keeps the fat content healthier, and the absence of heavy cream or cheese in the base keeps it dairy-light (unless garnished at the end). It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to dairy-free or low-sodium needs. For those watching calorie intake, it clocks in at approximately 238 calories per serving—surprisingly low for such a hearty and satisfying dish.
Customizations and Add-Ins
One of the joys of this chili is its versatility. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit different taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply swap out the chicken for more beans or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also adjust the heat level by choosing a milder salsa verde or omitting the green chiles. If you want more richness, a splash of cream or a handful of shredded cheese stirred into the pot will turn it into a creamy, indulgent variation. Toppings such as sliced avocado, lime wedges, chopped cilantro, or tortilla strips allow each diner to personalize their bowl.
Serving Suggestions and Occasions
Spicy White Bean Chicken Chili is wonderfully adaptable to various dining occasions. It’s cozy enough for a cold winter night, yet light enough for spring or fall. Serve it with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at casual gatherings, potlucks, or game day parties. Thanks to its mildly spicy, tangy flavor and chunky texture, it appeals to both adults and children. For a more elevated presentation, serve it in bread bowls or alongside crusty artisan bread with herb butter.
Storage and Freezer Tips
This chili stores exceptionally well, which makes it an excellent option for meal planning. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. In fact, the flavors deepen and meld over time, making it even more delicious on the second or third day. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and nourishing meal.
What Makes This Version Stand Out
While there are many recipes for white bean chicken chili, this particular one from Feast and Farm stands out for its use of salsa verde as a foundational flavor. This not only simplifies the recipe by reducing the need for multiple individual spices and herbs but also gives the dish a vibrant, zesty base. The inclusion of fire-roasted tomatoes adds a layer of smokiness that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully. Additionally, the measured use of seasoning and aromatics ensures that the final dish is well-balanced—not overly spicy, salty, or bland.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
Even though it carries a bit of heat, the spiciness of this chili is generally mellow enough for most children, especially if a milder salsa verde is used. The chunky ingredients and colorful presentation make it visually appealing to kids, and it’s easy to sneak in extra veggies if needed. The flexibility in toppings also encourages kids to get involved in serving themselves, which can make mealtime more engaging and fun. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can help temper the heat for more sensitive palates.
Perfect for All Seasons
Though traditionally associated with colder weather, this chili is versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Its brightness and tangy notes from the salsa verde and lime-friendly garnishes make it feel fresh and lively, even in spring or early summer. In warm weather, serve it with a light slaw or chilled avocado salad. In winter, add a pinch of cayenne or a little chipotle powder for extra warmth and depth. It’s truly a recipe that transitions well from one season to the next.
Cultural and Culinary Fusion
This chili is a beautiful example of how American comfort food has evolved through the incorporation of global flavors. The Mexican influence is clear in the use of salsa verde, cumin, and green chiles, yet the dish retains its American roots in its structure and spirit. It brings together pantry staples and convenience items like canned beans and salsa, but in a way that feels intentional and crafted. This makes it an ideal dish for those who appreciate comfort food with a modern, slightly international twist.
Conclusion
Spicy White Bean Chicken Chili is a recipe that checks all the boxes: quick, hearty, nutritious, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you turn to on busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or when you need something reliable and soul-warming. The combination of salsa verde, shredded chicken, white beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that’s surprising for how simple and accessible the ingredients are. It’s easy to customize, meal-prep friendly, and beloved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry crowd, this chili belongs in your regular recipe rotation.