This hearty and delicious Chicken and Bacon White Chili recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy white beans, and a blend of aromatic spices to create a mouthwatering chili that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a game night, or simply seeking a cozy meal for a chilly evening, this recipe is a perfect choice.
In this blog post, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making this recipe, share some helpful tips and variations, and suggest food and drink pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Directions
Now let’s dive into the cooking process of this delicious Chicken and Bacon White Chili:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the rendered fat behind.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture becomes fragrant, usually about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink in the center. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the drained and rinsed white beans, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground coriander, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, ensuring that the ingredients are well submerged. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir to incorporate all the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to lightly mash some of the beans.
- To serve, ladle the Chicken and Bacon White Chili into bowls. Top each bowl with the crumbled bacon and chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Kitchen Equipment
To prepare this recipe, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
- Potato masher (optional)
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is highly unlikely because this chili is so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a pot or microwave-safe bowl and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the chili thickens in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.
FAQ
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer turkey or have leftover Thanksgiving turkey to use, you can easily swap it for chicken in this recipe. Simply substitute an equal amount of cooked and shredded turkey for the chicken pieces. The result will be a delightful Turkey and Bacon White Chili.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?
Yes, indeed! To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and bacon and replace them with extra vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh. Increase the amount of beans for added substance and protein.
3. What can I serve with Chicken and Bacon White Chili?
There are several delicious accompaniments that pair well with this chili. You can serve it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for dipping. A side salad or coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Food and Drink Pairings
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing your Chicken and Bacon White Chili with the following food and drink options:
- Food Pairings: Freshly baked cornbread, avocado slices, lime wedges, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapenos.
- Drink Pairings: Mexican lager, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a classic margarita with a hint of spice.
To Summarize
Now that you have the recipe for this scrumptious Chicken and Bacon White Chili, it’s time to gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and savor the delightful flavors.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family who will undoubtedly appreciate a bowl of this comforting chili. Enjoy, and stay tuned for more mouthwatering recipes by subscribing to our blog!