Healthy White Chili Recipe

Craving a hearty and healthy meal? This Healthy White Chili with ground turkey, cannellini beans, and Monterey Jack cheese offers the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and a rich blend of spices like cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper, this easy white chili recipe is sure to satisfy.

Made with simple ingredients such as chicken broth, green chile peppers, and shredded cheese, this low-fat chili is a great option for a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The creamy texture from the pureed beans and the Monterey Jack cheese makes this chili incredibly comforting, while the ground turkey keeps it lean and full of protein.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this healthy turkey chili is easy to make and budget-friendly. Whether you’re craving a cozy comfort food chili, looking for a high-protein chili recipe, or simply want a healthy chili recipe that everyone will love, this white chili is your go-to option.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ lb ground turkey
• 2 (4 oz) cans green chile peppers, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Ground cayenne pepper, to taste
• Ground white pepper, to taste
• 3 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink.
2. Add the chopped green chile peppers, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and white pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 5 more minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
3. Using a food processor or blender, puree one can of cannellini beans until smooth.
4. Add the pureed beans, chicken broth, and the remaining two cans of whole beans to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the chili to a boil.
5. Let the chili boil for about 5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted into the chili.
6. Season with salt to taste, and serve hot.

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Tips

• For added creaminess, you can puree two cans of beans instead of just one.
• If you like your chili spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add fresh diced jalapeños.
• This chili is freezer-friendly; store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Ground Meat Options: You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey and use extra beans or vegetables like corn and zucchini for a meatless version.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap the Monterey Jack cheese for a milder cheese like mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use canned turkey instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute canned turkey; just drain and add it with the beans.
• How can I make this spicier? Add extra cayenne pepper, chili powder, or diced fresh chilies to taste.
• Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the turkey and sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cheese at the end.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your healthy white chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of brown rice for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some diced avocado for extra flavor.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast to the creamy chili.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy white chili is perfect for those seeking a lighter, yet hearty meal. The combination of ground turkey, cannellini beans, and aromatic spices creates a rich, flavorful chili that’s full of protein and fiber. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, ideal for meal prepping or freezing for later use!