Contents
Introduction
Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. This recipe from Damn Delicious delivers a delicious blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy goodness, all made in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this chili is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 sweet onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 cups chicken stock
2 (15-ounce) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
2 (4.5-ounce) cans chopped mild green chiles
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup sour cream
⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is not only easy to prepare but also customizable. Feel free to add toppings like avocado, lime wedges, or additional cilantro for a burst of freshness. Enjoy the comforting flavors in every spoonful!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to the high sauté setting. Add olive oil, then add the diced sweet onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook until fragrant, which will take about 1 minute.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour, continuing to stir until it becomes lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Liquid Ingredients
Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chicken stock, drained and rinsed Great Northern beans, chopped mild green chiles, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined. Select the manual setting on the Instant Pot, adjust the pressure to high, and set the cooking time for 12 minutes. When the cooking time finishes, perform a quick-release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and use two forks to shred it. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cilantro
Stir in the sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro leaves. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the chili immediately with any desired toppings.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
The chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Adjusting Spice Level
For a spicier chili, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy green chiles.
Toppings
Consider topping with jalapeños, avocado, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, olive oil is heated in the Instant Pot to cook the onion until translucent, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Whisking
Whisking is the process of mixing ingredients together thoroughly using a whisk or fork. Here, flour is whisked into the sautéed mixture, which helps to thicken the chili as it cooks.
Shredding
Shredding involves pulling apart cooked meat into smaller pieces, often using two forks. After the chicken is cooked, it is removed from the Instant Pot and shredded to incorporate it seamlessly back into the chili.
Quick-release
Quick-release is a safety feature of pressure cookers that quickly releases the steam built up during cooking. This method is used to release the pressure in the Instant Pot after cooking the chili, allowing you to open it safely and promptly.
Stirring
Stirring is the act of mixing ingredients together to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking. In this recipe, the shredded chicken is stirred back into the chili along with sour cream and cilantro to create a well-mixed dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs; however, the cooking time may remain the same to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Can I freeze the white chicken chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.
What can I use instead of Great Northern beans?
You can use other white beans like cannellini or navy beans as a substitute for Great Northern beans.
Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
Yes, you can increase the amount of chili powder, add jalapeños, or use spicier green chiles to give the chili a kick.
How do I store leftover chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a harmonious blend of spices, it’s perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week. Topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that will surely please your palate.
Spicy White Chicken Chili Variation
Add diced jalapeños or an extra teaspoon of chili powder to give the chili a kick, enhancing its spiciness and flavor depth.
Creamy Avocado Topping
Top your chili with sliced or diced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese and Green Onion
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions on top for added flavor and a bit of crunch.
Quinoa or Rice Addition
Mix in cooked quinoa or rice to make the chili heartier, adding more textures and nutrients.
Vegetarian Option
Substitute the chicken with jackfruit or additional beans to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this chili.
Cilantro-Lime Rice Side
Serve the chili with a side of cilantro-lime rice for a zesty and refreshing complement to the dish.
Chili Tacos
Use the white chicken chili as a filling for tacos, adding your favorite toppings like lettuce, salsa, and cheese for a fun twist.
