There’s something about a bowl of chili that’s like a warm embrace on a cool day. It’s hearty, it’s comforting, and when it’s made just right, it’s downright irresistible.

Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s been a staple in my kitchen for over two decades:

White Bean Chicken Chili. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a recipe that carries memories, tradition, and a little bit of magic.

Before we dive into the recipe, I want to pay homage to the original creator, the precious Mom of @vegasmamaa, whose culinary genius inspired this delightful dish. It’s a recipe that has evolved over the years, adapting to tastes and dietary preferences, but always keeping the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 box vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin seed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cans diced chilies, not drained
• Juice of a small lime
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern white beans, not drained
• 1 bag frozen corn, thawed (white or yellow)
• 1/2 bag frozen diced cauliflower

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Avocado
• Sour cream
• Tortilla chips/Doritos/@traderjoes corn chips

Directions:

1. Sauté the garlic and onions with a splash of olive oil in a saucepan until they’re fragrant and golden.
2. Stir in the spices and let them mingle with the aromatics to awaken their flavors.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add extra water to reach your desired chili thickness.
4. Add the chicken now if it’s uncooked; if using precooked chicken, you’ll add it towards the end.
5. Combine the remaining ingredients and bring the chili to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
6. Serve hot, topped with any (or all!) of the optional ingredients for a personalized touch.

For the Vegetarian/Vegan Version:

Simply omit the chicken, cheese, and sour cream. The beauty of this chili is its versatility—it’s just as delicious in its plant-based form.

I remember the days when Doritos were my favorite part of the meal, adding that crunch and burst of flavor that made this chili truly special. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or you’re trying the vegetarian twist, this White Bean Chicken Chili is sure to become a favorite in your home too.