Looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that brings a zesty twist to your table? Meet the Zesty Lime White Chicken Chili — a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any season. Bursting with citrus and spice, it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Chicken breasts: These provide a lean protein base that's tender and absorbs all the wonderful spices. You can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps sauté the onion and garlic, bringing out their sweetness.
Onion and garlic: The aromatic foundation of our chili, adding depth and flavor.
White beans: Creamy and mild, they add bulk and nutrition, making the chili hearty and filling.
Chicken broth: The liquid base that marries all the ingredients together. Opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
Green chilies: These give a mild heat and tangy flavor, enhancing the chili's taste.
Cumin, chili powder, and paprika: A trio of spices that add warmth and complexity without overwhelming the dish.
Lime juice: The star of the show, bringing a zesty freshness that brightens up the whole chili.
Cilantro: Adds a burst of color and an herbaceous note that complements the lime beautifully.
Avocado: Optional, but it provides a creamy contrast and a dose of healthy fats when used as a garnish.
This chili is fantastic on its own, but serving it with warm cornbread or crusty bread can make it even more satisfying. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. Don’t forget the toppings — a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can take it to the next level.
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until the onion turns translucent and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Let them brown nicely on each side — about 5 minutes per side should do the trick. This browning step is crucial for flavor, so don’t rush it.
Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. With two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s easier than it sounds, and this step ensures every bite of chili has some of that tender chicken.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the white beans, chicken broth, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens — the ingredients meld together to create a harmonious, flavorful chili.
Finally, stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, top with diced avocado for that extra creamy touch.
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