Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a creamy and delicious soup recipe that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant spices to create a comforting bowl of goodness. The addition of fresh toppings like cilantro and avocado elevates it to a delightful experience that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can have this flavorful chili ready in just 45 minutes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is not only satisfying but also nutritious.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The blend of spices and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a cozy dinner or serve it at gatherings; it’s suitable for all occasions.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or tortilla chips for extra crunch and flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time while enhancing flavors.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
- Knife: A good-quality knife ensures precise cuts for even cooking throughout the dish.
Ingredients
Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a creamy and delicious soup recipe that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free. It’s made with beans, corn, chicken, and plenty of spices, then topped with cilantro, avocado, and tortilla strips, making it incredibly filling too.
Beans & Vegetables
- 30 oz. great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1/2 cup yellow onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 oz. hatch green chiles
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
Chicken & Dairy
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken (breast or thighs)
- 1/2 cup plain cream cheese (regular or dairy-free)
Liquids & Acids
- 1 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Optional Toppings
- Cilantro
- Avocado
- Jalapeño
- Tortilla chips
How to Make Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain and rinse the great northern beans, dice the onion, and mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Add the beans to your Instant Pot first. Then layer the corn on top of them. Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, hatch green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and finally lay the chicken on top of those ingredients. Cut the cream cheese into small chunks (about 5-6 pieces) and distribute them evenly over everything. Pour in the chicken broth last.
Step 3: Cook in the Instant Pot
Close the lid securely while ensuring that the valve on top is set to seal. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. After cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Note that it takes around 10 minutes for your Instant Pot to come to pressure before cooking starts.
Step 4: Shred Chicken and Stir Soup
Once it’s safe to open the lid, carefully remove the chicken from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board and shred it using two forks. Stir the soup well to ensure that the cream cheese has fully melted into it before adding back in the shredded chicken.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle your warm chili into bowls and finish with optional toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, jalapeños, or crispy tortilla chips for added texture. Enjoy!
How to Serve Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Serving Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is as delightful as making it. This creamy soup can be customized with various toppings that enhance its flavor and presentation.
Toppings to Enhance Flavor
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to your chili.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance the spices in the soup.
- Jalapeño: For those who love heat, sprinkle sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer texture and make each spoonful exciting.
Accompaniments for a Complete Meal
- Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a classic pairing with chili.
- Rice: A scoop of fluffy rice can complement the soup and make it more filling.
- Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can be a refreshing contrast.
Beverage Pairings
- Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warmth of the chili.
- Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is another great option that won’t overpower the flavors.
How to Perfect Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
To ensure your Instant Pot White Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; add more chili powder for heat or cumin for earthiness.
- Shred Chicken Well: Make sure to shred the chicken finely so that it mixes well with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall texture.
- Natural Release Time: Allowing for natural pressure release helps in keeping the ingredients tender and flavorful.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream for added richness.
Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot White Chicken Chili can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread complements the chili’s spiciness perfectly.
- Guacamole: A creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the flavors of white chicken chili.
- Mexican Rice: Cilantro-lime Mexican rice is a tasty addition that brings freshness and zest.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter serve as a hearty side option.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies adds color, nutrition, and smoky flavor to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a crunchy counterpart to your chili.
- Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide an easy appetizer before enjoying your main dish.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a cool crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Instant Pot White Chicken Chili can be easy, but some common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the sauté step: Always sauté the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients. This enhances the flavor of your chili.
- Not using enough liquid: Ensure there is enough chicken broth. Insufficient liquid can lead to burning at the bottom of the pot.
- Ignoring the pressure release method: Natural release is important for this recipe. Don’t skip it or you risk overcooking the chicken.
- Overcrowding the pot: Avoid adding too many ingredients at once. Stick to the recipe for optimal results.
- Forgetting toppings: Toppings like avocado and cilantro make a big difference in flavor and presentation, so don’t skip them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.
Reheating Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, along with their answers.
Can I use other types of beans?
You can substitute great northern beans with black beans or pinto beans if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?
The level of spiciness depends on how much chili powder and green chiles you use. Start with less if you prefer mild flavors.
Can I make this chili without cream cheese?
Yes! You can omit cream cheese for a lighter version or use dairy-free alternatives for a creamy texture.
What can I serve with Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?
Serve with tortilla chips, bread, or over rice for a hearty meal that complements the chili well.
How do I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Try adding your favorite toppings or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a creamy, gluten-free, and dairy-free soup that combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant spices. This delicious dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, offering a satisfying bowl of warmth. Top it with fresh cilantro, creamy avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips for an elevated experience that everyone will adore. Enjoy this flavorful chili in just 45 minutes thanks to your Instant Pot!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 30 oz great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1/2 cup yellow onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 oz hatch green chiles
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken (breast or thighs)
- 1/2 cup plain cream cheese (regular or dairy-free)
- 1 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Drain and rinse the beans, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Add the beans to the Instant Pot, layer corn on top, then add onion, garlic, green chiles, spices, and chicken. Cut cream cheese into chunks and distribute evenly before pouring in chicken broth.
- Secure the lid with the valve set to 'seal.' Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes before manual release.
- Shred the cooked chicken with two forks then stir back into the pot until fully mixed.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, or tortilla chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
