This article unveils a delectable keto white chicken chili recipe, perfect for those chilly days when you crave comfort food without the carb overload. Crafted with tender chicken thighs, creamy broth, and a medley of spices, this beanless chili is a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will relish. Moreover, it's quick and easy to make, especially with the help of an Instant Pot or slow cooker.
Why This Recipe Works
Traditional white chicken chili recipes often rely on beans and flour or starches for thickening, making them unsuitable for a ketogenic diet. This recipe cleverly omits the beans and uses cream cheese and simmering to achieve a rich, creamy texture. The result is a low-carb, high-fat chili that's both delicious and macro-friendly, with just 4.2 grams of net carbs per serving.
The Magic of Pressure Cookers and Slow Cookers
Pressure cookers, like the Instant Pot, are invaluable kitchen appliances for busy individuals. They simplify and expedite the cooking process, allowing you to prepare a flavorful dinner in a fraction of the time. This white chicken chili recipe is a testament to the Instant Pot's efficiency.
Slow cookers, on the other hand, offer the convenience of having a ready-made dinner waiting for you after a long day at work. Simply toss all the ingredients into the crockpot in the morning, and let it simmer to perfection.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Chicken Thighs: These provide a richer flavor and higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, making them ideal for keto recipes. However, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, especially since this recipe includes plenty of other fat sources.
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Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative to traditional rice adds bulk and texture to the chili without adding unnecessary carbohydrates.
Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient for thickening and creating a super creamy texture without using flour, starches, or keto thickeners like xanthan gum.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the broth, enhancing the overall flavor of the chili.
Diced Tomatoes: While tomatoes contain carbohydrates, they add significant flavor to the chili. A moderate amount of tomatoes is acceptable on the keto diet.
Green Chilies: These provide a mild heat and add a touch of Southwestern flavor to the chili.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Chicken Broth: This serves as the base of the chili, providing moisture and flavor.
Seasonings: A blend of cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and black pepper creates a warm and flavorful spice profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instant Pot Method
- Add chicken thighs, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chiles, heavy cream, and seasonings to the liner of the Instant Pot.
- Spread cubed cream cheese around the chicken chili broth mixture.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to seal.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Release the pressure using the quick release method.
- Add cauliflower rice. Stir well.
- Shred the chicken using an electric mixer or two forks.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Slow Cooker Method
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, diced chiles, and seasonings to the liner of a slow cooker. Mix to combine.
- Add in chicken thighs and cream cheese.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Shred the chicken using an electric mixer or two forks.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Stovetop Method
- Add all of the chili ingredients to a stock pot except the cream cheese.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let simmer on the stove for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Add in cream cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This keto white chicken chili is delicious on its own, but it's even better with toppings. Consider these options:
- Avocado slices
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeño slices
- Sour cream or plain coconut yogurt (dairy-free alternative)
- A squeeze of lime juice
For a complete meal, serve with keto cornbread.
Tips and Tricks
- Meal Prep: This chili tastes even better the next day, so make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
- Freezing: Let the chili cool to room temperature, then store in freezer-safe zip-lock bags, laid flat in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker chili, add more heavy cream, cream cheese, or 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder.
- Shredding Chicken: The easiest way to shred cooked chicken is to use an electric mixer. You can shred the chicken right in the same pot (your Instant Pot liner or slow cooker).
Keto White Chicken Chili: FAQs
Can I use chicken breast or rotisserie chicken instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can. While chicken thighs are preferred for their higher fat content, this recipe has enough fat from other sources to accommodate chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken is also a convenient option.
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto
How many days can I store white chicken chili in the refrigerator?
You can store this chili in the fridge for 3 - 5 days.
How to thicken white chicken chili?
You will find keto chicken recipe is very thick already. However, if you need it thicker one could add more heavy cream, cream cheese, or add 1 tsp of arrowroot powder.