Zesty White Bean Chicken Chili with Lime

Name: Zesty White Bean Chicken Chili with Lime
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Lime wedges for serving

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're craving a warm and comforting dish with a kick of zest, this Zesty White Bean Chicken Chili with Lime is your answer. It's a delightful twist on traditional chili, bringing a refreshing limey flavor that brightens up your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy dinner or any gathering with friends and family.

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Ingredients for Zesty White Bean Chicken Chili with Lime

The heart of this recipe is the chicken breasts, which provide a lean protein base. Olive oil is used for sautéing, adding a subtle richness. Onion and garlic form the aromatic foundation, enhancing depth. White beans not only bulk up the chili but also add creaminess and fiber. The diced green chilies introduce a mild heat, while cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper contribute earthy, spicy notes. Chicken broth ties everything together with its savory warmth, and fresh lime juice adds a burst of acidity that elevates the dish. Finally, cilantro and lime wedges bring a fresh, herby finish.

Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it on hand.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference; a little goes a long way.
If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork before adding them in.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty chili pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a side of buttery cornbread. You can also serve it over rice for a more filling meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the chili’s flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness to the dish.
How long does this chili keep?: Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to three days in the fridge.
Can I freeze it?: Yes, this chili freezes well for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when needed.

Zesty White Bean Chicken Chili with Lime Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides, which should take about five minutes. This step ensures the chicken is sealed with flavor and cooked through.

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onion turns translucent, usually around three minutes. This softens the onion and mellows the garlic, creating a beautiful aroma.

Now, stir in the white beans, diced green chilies, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another couple of minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors and coat the ingredients.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken nicely.

Finally, add the fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes. The lime juice adds a bright, tangy finish that balances the spices.

Serve your chili hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Loaded with bold flavors thanks to the lime and spices.
Hearty yet light, making it a versatile dish for any season.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

4 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

3. Stir in the white beans, diced green chilies, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

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