Are you still clinging to the myth that healthy recipes mean flavorless meals or hours in the kitchen? Think again! High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili is rewriting the rules for easy, nutritious dining—packing bold taste, creamy texture, and substantial protein with surprisingly few carbs. In fact, this dish has become a top choice for those seeking delicious, goal-oriented eating. If you’re looking for a meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying, read on to discover the data-driven reasons why High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili could be your new kitchen staple.
Discover more flavorful, high-protein bowls like the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl here!
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Ingredients List
This protein-packed white chicken chili delivers hearty satisfaction while staying low on carbs. Here’s everything you’ll need for a batch that’s sure to impress:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs; rotisserie chicken works for speed)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed — or swap for cannellini or navy beans for a creamier finish
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles, mild or hot for your preferred spice level
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or low-fat sour cream for creamy tang)
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, rough chopped for garnish
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Substitution Tips:
To reduce carbs further, replace beans with extra chicken or cauliflower florets. Chopped jalapeños can substitute green chiles if you crave more heat. Greek yogurt adds protein, but coconut yogurt offers a dairy-free option.
For another twist on protein-rich, globally-inspired dishes, see the Asian Style Tuna Cakes recipe.
Try Asian Style Tuna Cakes for another high-protein meal.
Timing
One of the joys of High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili is efficiency. Here’s how much time you’ll need:
- Prep time: 10 minutes (a swift chop of fresh veggies and chicken)
- Cook time: 25–30 minutes (on the stovetop; 5–7 hours on low in a slow cooker)
- Total time: 40 minutes (20% faster than most traditional chili recipes, which often clock in near an hour)
Thanks to minimal chopping and zero need to simmer for hours, this is an ideal weeknight dinner—nutritious, balanced, and quick.
Consider pairing this rapid chili with an equally speedy side, like Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
For a quick, refreshing side, check out this Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in diced onion and garlic, sautéing until onion turns translucent—about 3 minutes. Add chicken, searing both sides until lightly golden.
Pro Tip: Cutting chicken into 1-inch pieces cooks it more evenly and speeds up the process.
Step 2: Mix in Spices and Chiles
Sprinkle in cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously so spices bloom and coat the chicken. Add diced green chiles and cook for another minute.
Insight: Toasting spices directly in the pot intensifies their flavors, giving the chili robust complexity.
Step 3: Simmer with Beans and Broth
Pour in drained beans and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Tip: For ultra-thick chili, use the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans against the pot for extra creaminess.
Step 4: Finish with Greek Yogurt and Cheese
Turn off the heat. Mix in Greek yogurt and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Bonus: Greek yogurt delivers an unbeatable creamy tang, extra protein, and replaces the need for heavy cream!
Step 5: Serve with Garnishes
Ladle chili into bowls, topping generously with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy piping hot!
Want more cozy, high-protein bowls? See this Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole for another hearty dinner.
Explore the Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole here.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutrition behind High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili can help you meet your dietary goals:
Per Serving (1/6 recipe) | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 290 |
Protein | 30g |
Net Carbs | 13g |
Total Fat | 7g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sodium | 540mg |
Cholesterol | 78mg |
Compared to classic red chili—which can contain 40g+ carbs per serving—this white chili recipe slashes carbs by over 60%, while piling on lean protein.
Curious about macro-rich snacks? See DIY Keto Vanilla Protein Powder for homemade protein blends.
Learn how to make your own Keto Vanilla Protein Powder.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Customize your High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili while keeping nutrition on point:
- For dairy-free: Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or blended silken tofu.
- Go bean-free: Increase chicken and veggies, such as cauliflower rice or zucchini, to lower carbs even further.
- Lower sodium: Use homemade low-sodium chicken broth or rinse canned beans thoroughly.
- Add more fiber: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost.
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices—fresh oregano, smoked paprika, or a dash of turmeric all add depth and potential health benefits!
Explore more creative, protein-forward dishes like Cottage Cheese and Chickpeas Salad for alternative protein boosts.
Check out this Cottage Cheese and Chickpeas Salad recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Make your High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili even more memorable with these creative serving ideas:
- Tortilla-less bowls: Top with avocado slices, diced jalapeño, or radish for crunch.
- Lettuce wraps: Spoon chili onto crisp romaine leaves—a low-carb, high-fiber vessel.
- Mini chili “shooter” cups: Perfect for parties or game day.
- Add a squeeze of citrus: Lime not only boosts flavor, but also enhances iron absorption from beans and chicken, according to nutritionists.
For heartier appetites, serve with a side of refreshing Cucumber Lemonade!
Fans of healthy, filling bowls will also enjoy this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Try the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for another zesty option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like High Protein Low Carb White Chicken Chili, a few missteps can interfere with results:
- Overcooking chicken: Leads to dry, stringy meat. Remove from heat as soon as cooked through.
- Not draining/rinsing beans: Can cause excess sodium and a mushy texture.
- Adding yogurt over high heat: Can curdle the chili. Stir in off-heat for creamy results.
- Forgetting to taste and season: Every batch of broth/beans is different—adjust salt and acid as needed!
- Skipping fresh toppings: They add crunch, color, and bright flavors to an otherwise creamy base.
For more foolproof protein recipes, check out our Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs.
Discover Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs here.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Chili is famous for tasting even better the next day. Here’s how to maximize taste and texture:
- Chill quickly: Cool and refrigerate in airtight glass containers within two hours.
- Lasts up to 4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. Divide into single servings for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring in a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
- Fresh toppings: Add just before serving for best texture and brightness.
Batch-cooking? Consider prepping extra for workday lunches!
For more meal-prep friendly ideas, visit the Roam Diet Recipes collection.
Explore Roam Diet Recipes for more batch-cook inspiration.