Peggy'S White Chili
Peggy's White Chili offers a comforting and flavorful experience with tender chicken, hearty beans, and a mild spicy kick from green chilies and spices. Its creamy Monterey Jack cheese topping makes it perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy a smooth, savory chili with a twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Great Northern beans ⓘ
- 2 lb. boneless chicken breasts ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 2 onions, chopped ⓘ
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 2 (4 oz.) cans green chilies, chopped ⓘ
- 2 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 2 tsp. oregano leaves ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground cloves ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne ⓘ
- 6 c. chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 c. Monterey Jack cheese, grated ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add boneless chicken breasts, cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in green chilies, ground cumin, oregano leaves, ground cloves, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then return to the pot.
- Add Great Northern beans and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, or tortilla chips as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream during the last few minutes of cooking. If you're short on time, canned Great Northern beans can substitute dried; just add them towards the end of cooking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. This white chili is inspired by classic American recipes, offering a comforting twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with grated Monterey Jack cheese, and accompany with sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or cornbread. This dish is also a great option for gatherings, where it can be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S White Chili contains roughly 1376 calories, with 46g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (252% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1422mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of bean in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute Great Northern beans with other white beans like cannellini or navy beans. Each will add a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all complement the spices and chicken well. Just ensure that if you're using canned beans, you adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Peggy's White Chili is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat ingredients. Just be sure to check the labels on your chicken broth and any additional toppings like salsa or tortilla chips to ensure they are also gluten-free, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers while cooking. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce just before serving for an extra kick. If you enjoy spicy chicken recipes, consider trying some of the variations that include additional spices or peppers.
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).