Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet but still craving something hearty and comforting, this Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is the perfect solution! Packed with tender chicken, rich spices, and creamy goodness, this chili is both satisfying and low in carbs. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy dinner, and it’s easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, keto-friendly dish!

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What is Low-Carb White Chicken Chili?

Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is a lighter version of traditional chili, specifically designed for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Instead of using starchy beans, this recipe focuses on high-protein chicken and low-carb vegetables, with a creamy base created from ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream. The result is a rich, satisfying chili that’s full of flavor but low in carbohydrates, making it perfect for those watching their carb intake.

Ingredients List for Low-Carb White Chicken Chili

To create this delicious low-carb chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total)
• Cauliflower Rice: 1 ½ cups cauliflower rice (for added bulk and fiber)
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Green Chilies: 2 cans (4 ounces each) diced green chilies
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (make sure it's low-carb)
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream (or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened and cut into cubes
• Cumin: 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon chili powder (check the label to ensure it’s carb-free)
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime
• Cilantro: ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
• Avocado: 1 ripe avocado, sliced (optional, for topping)
• Shredded Cheese: ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Substitutions and Variations

This Low-Carb White Chicken Chili recipe is flexible and can be tailored to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations:

• Chicken: Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful option. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra low-carb vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the cream cheese, or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or add a diced jalapeño for extra heat. For a milder chili, reduce the chili powder or omit it.
• Cauliflower Rice: You can substitute the cauliflower rice with chopped zucchini or riced broccoli for a different texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and prepare the cauliflower rice.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Chicken and Spices: Place the chicken breasts in the pot, then sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices.
4. Add Broth and Green Chilies: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. Add the diced green chilies and stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Add Cauliflower Rice and Cream Cheese: Stir in the cauliflower rice and the cubed cream cheese. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
8. Stir in Heavy Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring continuously. This will create a rich, creamy texture without adding many carbs.
9. Add Lime Juice and Cilantro: Squeeze in the lime juice and stir in the chopped cilantro. These final touches add brightness and fresh flavor to the chili.
10. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.

How to Cook Low-Carb White Chicken Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here are a few tips to help ensure your Low-Carb White Chicken Chili turns out perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Spices: Spices can lose their potency over time, so use fresh spices for the best flavor. If your spices are more than a year old, consider replacing them.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the chili to simmer slowly helps develop the flavors and ensures the chicken becomes tender. Don’t rush this step for the best results.
• Cauliflower Rice: Add the cauliflower rice towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like Low-Carb White Chicken Chili, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove the chicken for shredding as soon as it’s done.
• Not Adjusting the Seasoning: Always taste the chili before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt or lime juice, especially if you’ve added extra ingredients.
• Adding Cream Too Early: Adding the heavy cream too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in towards the end, after the heat has been reduced.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is ready, it’s time to serve it up. Here are some tips for presenting your dish beautifully:

How to Serve Low-Carb White Chicken Chili

• In Bowls: Serve the chili in deep bowls to keep it warm and to showcase all the creamy, hearty ingredients.
• With Toppings: Offer a variety of low-carb toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• With Sides: Serve with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower tortillas, low-carb crackers, or a simple green salad.

Presentation Ideas for Low-Carb White Chicken Chili

• Garnish with Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Top with Avocado Slices: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and visual appeal to the dish.
• Add a Lime Wedge: Place a lime wedge on the side of each bowl for an extra pop of color and a bright citrus flavor.

Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge for an easy, flavorful meal.
• Freeze for Later: This chili freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier chili, add more chili powder or a chopped jalapeño. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the spicy elements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Add all the ingredients (except the cauliflower rice, cream cheese, heavy cream, lime juice, and cilantro) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken, stir in the remaining ingredients, then serve.

Q: How can I thicken the chili without adding carbs?
A: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can reduce the broth slightly or add more cauliflower rice. Another option is to blend a small portion of the chili to create a thicker consistency.

Q: What if my chili is too spicy?
A: If your chili turns out too spicy, you can tone it down by adding more heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. Serving with avocado or lime juice can also help balance the heat.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftover Low-Carb White Chicken Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, canned chicken can be used for a quicker version of this recipe. Add it towards the end of the cooking process, just before adding the cream cheese and heavy cream.

Conclusion

This Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is a flavorful, keto-friendly dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and rich spices, it’s a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Plus, it’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and great for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend meal, this Low-Carb White Chicken Chili is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious, low-carb dish!

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