Creamy White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt Delight

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself craving something warm and satisfying yet light enough to usher in the evening. That’s when I decided it was time for a comforting bowl of White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt. This delightful recipe not only comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also adds a healthy twist with creamy Greek yogurt, elevating the flavor without the guilt. With a blend of tender chicken, zesty spices, and a hint of creaminess, this chili feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for seconds. So, are you ready to ladle out some warmth and delight your loved ones with this simple yet satisfying dish?

Why is this White Chicken Chili special?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish—ideal for busy weeknights.

Healthier Twist: The addition of creamy Greek yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also packs in protein, making it a guilt-free choice.

Robust Flavor: With tender chicken and zesty spices, every spoonful is bursting with warmth that everyone loves.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings—expect requests for seconds! For more hearty options, try my Buffalo Chicken Stuffed shells or Cajun Chicken Bell which are equally satisfying.

Versatile: Customize the toppings or add beans for extra heartiness—it’s your bowl of comfort!

White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt Ingredients

For the Chili
• Chicken breast – diced, this lean protein adds heartiness to your chili.
• Onion – finely chopped, it provides a sweet, aromatic base for deep flavor.
• Garlic – minced, for that fragrant, savory essence that elevates every bite.
• Green bell pepper – chopped, it adds a crisp texture and bright color.
• Canned diced tomatoes – they bring juicy tanginess and a rich tomato base.
• White beans – drained and rinsed, they offer creaminess and extra protein.
• Chicken broth – a flavorful liquid that ties all the ingredients together harmoniously.
• Cumin – this spice adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the chicken.
• Chili powder – for a bit of heat without overpowering the dish.

For the Topping
• Greek yogurt – use this as a creamy, healthier alternative to sour cream, adding a zesty kick.
• Fresh cilantro – chopped, it brightens up the chili and adds a lovely garnish.
• Lime wedges – squeeze on top for a refreshing zing that enhances the flavors.
• Shredded cheese – for a melty finish, adding richness to every spoonful.

This White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Low-Calorie White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This is the perfect time to let those fragrant aromas fill your kitchen, setting the base for your creamy low-calorie white chicken chili.

Step 2: Add the Spices
Stir in the cumin, oregano, and chili powder, allowing the mixture to cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll notice the spices bloom, releasing their earthy scents, which will enhance the depth of flavor in your chili. Make sure to stir continuously, ensuring the spices don’t stick or burn as they infuse their warmth into the sautéed onions and garlic.

Step 3: Prepare the Beans
In a separate bowl, mash 1 cup of drained white beans with a little bit of the chicken broth until smooth. This will help create a creamy texture for the chili. Reserve the remaining beans for later; they’ll provide delightful pieces in your chili. Set this bean mixture aside while you continue to build the dish.

Step 4: Combine the Main Ingredients
Add the mashed bean mixture, the remaining whole white beans, corn, diced green chiles, diced chicken breast, and chicken broth to the Dutch oven. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot using tongs. Place them on a cutting board and shred them using two forks until you achieve bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be tender and will easily pull apart, blending effortlessly back into the creamy low-calorie white chicken chili for a comforting bite.

Step 6: Finish with Greek Yogurt
Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, along with the juice of one lime. The yogurt will lend a creamy texture without the heaviness, while the lime juice will brighten the overall flavor of your chili. Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed with salt and pepper to ensure every spoonful is deliciously satisfying.

Step 7: Serve the Chili
Ladle the creamy low-calorie white chicken chili into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick. Consider offering optional toppings like shredded cheese or avocado slices for an added layer of flavor. Savor this bowl of comfort and enjoy the delightful warmth it brings to your table!

Expert Tips for White Chicken Chili

• Yogurt Addition: To avoid curdling, add Greek yogurt directly to individual servings instead of the pot if you plan to use a “Keep Warm” setting.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with an equal amount of chickpeas or additional beans to create a hearty vegetarian version of this white chicken chili.

• Heat Adjustment: For those who enjoy a kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or spicier green chiles, and adjust the spices to your taste preference.

• Thickening Trick: If you want a creamier texture, mash more white beans and stir them in along with the Greek yogurt; this enhances both the flavor and consistency.

• Freezer Friendly: This chili freezes well! Prepare a big batch and store leftovers in individual containers for up to 2 months for a quick meal.

• Flavor Boost: Fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, can elevate the dish—add them as a garnish or mix them in before serving for added vibrancy and freshness.

How to Store and Freeze White Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store any leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures it’s ready for a quick meal.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the white chicken chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it appears too thick. Stir gently until warmed through.

Serving Tip: For the best texture, add the Greek yogurt to each bowl just before serving rather than reheating the entire pot, which helps maintain its creamy consistency.

White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt Variations

Make this flavorful dish your own with these fun and tasty variations!

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with an equal amount of chickpeas or extra white beans for a satisfying meat-free meal. It will still pack in all the creamy goodness!

• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute Greek yogurt with cashew yogurt or omit it entirely, using a slurry of cornstarch and water for thickening. You’ll still enjoy a velvety texture!

• Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by folding in chopped spinach or kale. This adds color and enhances the health benefits without compromising flavor.

• Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, swap the diced green chiles with jalapeños, or add a teaspoon of chipotle powder. This brings a smoky kick that elevates each spoonful.

• Creamy & Lighter: Use a flaxseed meal slurry instead of Greek yogurt for a lighter version. This maintains the creamy texture while also keeping calories in check!

• Flavor Infusion: Add zest by incorporating additional spices like smoked paprika or coriander. Each brings a unique layer of flavor to this already delightful chili.

• Herbaceous Notes: Experiment by mixing in fresh herbs like dill or basil. This can add a fresh twist that’s not traditionally found in chili, making your dish stand out.

For even more hearty comfort food inspiration, don’t forget to try my Bbq Chicken Coleslaw wraps or Green Chile Chicken soup! Each offers a delicious twist perfect for satisfying your cravings.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Low-Calorie White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily prep the base of the chili up to 3 days in advance by sautéing the aromatics and combining the spices, chicken, beans, corn, and broth in the pot. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, avoid stirring in the Greek yogurt until right before serving, as this prevents curdling. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, shred the chicken, stir in the yogurt and lime, and you’ll have a warm, satisfying bowl of chili in no time!

What to Serve with Creamy Low-Calorie White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt

A bowl of this comforting chili is delicious all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights.

• Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping, these add a satisfying crunch that balances the chili’s creaminess. Enjoy the contrast!

• Zesty Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a wonderful textural contrast and richness that pairs beautifully with the chili’s flavors.

• Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens, tossed with lime dressing, add brightness and a refreshing crunch, complementing the hearty chili perfectly.

• Cornbread Muffins: These warm, slightly sweet muffins are an ideal companion to the chili, soaking up those delicious flavors in every bite.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: The light flavors of lime and fresh cilantro in the rice enhance the chili, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

• Sliced Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, they add a spicy kick for those who crave heat, enhancing the overall experience of the dish.

• Savory Grilled Cheese: Pair it with a gooey grilled cheese for a classic comfort-food combo that feels indulgent, yet still light.

• Pineapple Salsa: This sweet-tart salsa brings a burst of freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the creamy chili beautifully.

White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken for the chili?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for those that are plump, moist, and free of any dark spots or blemishes. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color, and it’s best to choose free-range or organic options for better flavor and quality.

How long can I store leftover white chicken chili in the fridge?
You can store leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it to preserve freshness.

Can I freeze white chicken chili, and if so, how?
Yes, this white chicken chili freezes wonderfully! To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili if it’s too mild?
Very! If you find your chili needs a bit more heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount; you can always add more as needed. Remember, the flavors develop during cooking, so give it a taste before adjusting.

Is this white chicken chili suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, absolutely! This white chicken chili is gluten-free as long as you ensure the chicken broth and toppings (like yogurt) are certified gluten-free. Always check the labels when purchasing.

What if I have dairy allergies; can I still enjoy this chili?
Of course! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the Greek yogurt with cashew yogurt or omit it altogether. You can create a creamy texture by mashing more white beans and using a cornstarch slurry to thicken the chili without dairy. Enjoy experimenting!