Mexican White Bean Chili
A hearty, flavorful white bean chili with salsa and optional chicken, perfect for comforting meals and adaptable to spice preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the undrained, unrinsed white beans with salsa in a large pot or crock-pot.
- Add cooked, cubed chicken if desired.
- Simmer for at least one hour, or in a crock-pot all day.
- Add milk a little at a time if the chili is too thick.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top and serve with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing onions or garlic before adding the beans and salsa. You can substitute any white beans, like cannellini or navy beans, if Great Northern is unavailable. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This chili also works great with leftover chicken from recipes like Quick Salsa Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican White Bean Chili with a side of warm tortilla chips for dipping. It pairs beautifully with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices on top. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or pairing it with recipes like Baked Enchilada Casserole for a satisfying Tex-Mex feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican White Bean Chili contains roughly 78 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for heartiness. You can also enhance the protein content by including more beans or using a plant-based protein substitute.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, a teaspoon of chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. Adjust to your heat preference, and remember that toppings like pepper jack cheese can also add a kick.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).