Gluten-Free White Chicken Chili (Slow Cooker or Stovetop)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This White Chicken Chili is a comforting and hearty dish with a perfect balance of spices and creaminess. The tender chicken, beans, and corn combine beautifully in the broth, while the garlic, cumin, chili powder, and other spices give it an irresistible flavor. Whether made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, this dish is a family favorite, and the choice of delicious toppings like cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños make it even more irresistible. It’s the perfect meal for any night, and you’ll love that it’s gluten-free!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• ½ large onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons almond flour (or all-purpose flour, if not following a gluten-free diet)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 24 ounces chicken (shredded, cooked; use rotisserie or any leftover chicken)
• 16 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 ounces sweet corn, drained and rinsed
• 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel or another brand)
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1½ teaspoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream

Toppings (optional):

• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Pepper jack cheese, shredded
• Sour cream
• Jalapeños, fresh or pickled
• Tortilla chips (gluten-free)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Prepare the Base: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the almond flour (or all-purpose flour) and cook for another 1-2 minutes, making a roux.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the onion-flour mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Finish the Chili: About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream to add richness to the chili. Let it cook for the remaining time.
5. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your desired toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and tortilla chips.

Stovetop Method:

1. Cook the Base: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the almond flour (or all-purpose flour) and cook for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken and develop rich flavors.
4. Finish the Chili: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend everything together.
5. Serve: Serve the chili in bowls and add your preferred toppings such as cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and tortilla chips.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (stovetop) or 3-7 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes (stovetop) or 3-7 hours (slow cooker)

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra beans (like white beans or black beans) and vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian chili.
• Spicy Version: Add diced fresh chilies or more chili powder for extra heat. You can also include a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to kick up the spice level.
• Dairy-Free: To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Different Beans: You can swap kidney beans for white beans or black beans to adjust the flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if the chili thickens too much. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Simply cook them beforehand (either by roasting, grilling, or poaching), then shred them and add them to the soup.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and become more delicious after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this white chicken chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili is delicious on its own but pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also enjoy it with extra tortilla chips for added crunch.

Can I use a different kind of beans?

Yes, you can use any beans you prefer, such as black beans, pinto beans, or white beans. Each variety will bring a slightly different texture and flavor to the chili.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Absolutely! To make it spicier, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a few dashes of hot sauce. Fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers also work well if you want extra heat.

How do I make this chili thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add more almond flour or cornstarch to the base. Alternatively, you can blend some of the chili (using an immersion blender or regular blender) to create a creamier texture.

Conclusion

This Gluten-Free White Chicken Chili is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a medley of spices, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you choose the slow cooker or stovetop method, this chili is simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Don’t forget to load it up with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños for a truly delicious experience!

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