White Bean Chili

The Role of Beans in Adding Protein and Fiber to Fall Dishes

Beans play an essential role in creating hearty and satisfying fall dishes by providing both protein and fiber. Protein from beans helps support muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full longer, while their soluble and insoluble fiber aids digestion and promotes steady energy throughout the day. Their mild flavor and creamy texture make them versatile, blending seamlessly into soups, stews, and chilis. Including beans in autumn recipes adds nutritional depth without overpowering other seasonal flavors, making dishes both comforting and nourishing. This combination of health benefits and culinary flexibility makes beans a staple ingredient for warming meals during cooler months.

Chili Variations to Suit Every Taste: Mild to Spicy

Chili is a wonderfully adaptable dish, able to satisfy every palate from mild to fiery. For those who prefer gentle warmth, reducing chili powders and incorporating sweet peppers or tomatoes allows the flavors to shine without overwhelming heat. Medium versions can balance earthy spices with a touch of cayenne or smoked paprika, giving the dish depth and complexity. For heat lovers, adding fresh chilis, hot sauce, or chili flakes turns the chili into a bold, fiery experience. Beyond spice, variations can include different proteins, beans, or seasonal vegetables, letting each cook tailor the dish to their taste while keeping it comforting and hearty for crisp fall evenings.

Tips for Meal-Prepping Chili for the Week

Meal-prepping chili for the week makes enjoying a warm, comforting fall meal effortless. Cooking a large batch at once allows the flavors to deepen over time, and storing portions in airtight containers keeps the chili fresh for several days in the refrigerator or longer in the freezer. Consider separating toppings like cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs so they stay fresh until serving. Using a mix of proteins, beans, and vegetables ensures each portion is balanced and satisfying. Reheating is simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weekdays while still offering the cozy, homemade taste that makes chili a seasonal favorite.

White Bean Chicken Chili

Print Recipe

Author: Alli

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground chicken
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained & rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 can corn
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fennel seeds (sausage-like flavor)
1 ½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano (or Italian seasoning)
½ tsp chili powder (or more for heat)
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 Tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (stirred in at the end, optional for creaminess)
Toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla chips

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Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, fennel seeds, oregano, chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the chicken, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Transfer the browned chicken to the crockpot. Add the sautéed onion, celery, and carrots (if using), garlic, drained white beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors are well blended.
Optional: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt just before serving to make the chili creamy.

Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, or tortilla chips.