Indulge in the Ultimate High-Protein Creamy Chicken Chili: A Flavorful and Nutritious Powerhouse

Craving a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and incredibly healthy? Look no further than this High-Protein Creamy Chicken Chili! This exceptional recipe masterfully combines succulent, tender chicken with the rich, nourishing goodness of bone broth, protein-packed beans, and a luxuriously velvety, creamy base. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience designed to fuel your body and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re meticulously planning your meals for a busy week ahead, hosting a gathering, or simply need a comforting dish after a long day, this chili strikes the perfect balance between indulgent comfort and robust nutrition. Its versatile nature also means you can effortlessly customize it with your favorite toppings and add-ins, truly making it your own signature dish.

The Heart of the Bowl: Key Ingredients for Our High-Protein Chicken Chili

The magic of this high-protein chicken chili lies in its carefully selected components, each contributing to its remarkable flavor profile and impressive nutritional value. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this creamy, hearty dish:

• Chicken: The primary protein source, offering lean muscle-building power. We’ll discuss optimal cuts and preparation methods to ensure tender, flavorful bites.
• White Beans: Navy beans or Great Northern beans add essential fiber and a significant boost of plant-based protein, contributing to the chili’s satisfying texture and nutritional density.
• Bone Broth: Far superior to regular broth in terms of protein and beneficial compounds, bone broth forms the rich, savory foundation of our chili.
• Grated Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese melts into the chili, adding a layer of irresistible creaminess and a salty, tangy kick.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: The secret to our chili’s signature creaminess and an incredible protein enhancer. Full-fat yogurt also helps prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth finish.
• Bell Peppers (Red & Green): These vibrant vegetables introduce a delightful crunch, natural sweetness, and a burst of color, along with valuable vitamins and antioxidants.
• Onions & Garlic: The aromatic backbone of countless delicious dishes, these humble ingredients create a foundational layer of savory depth and complexity.
• Corn: Sweet and slightly starchy, corn kernels add a pop of texture and a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory spices.
• Spices: A carefully crafted blend, including chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, gives this chili its characteristic warmth, depth, and a customizable hint of heat.
• Diced Tomatoes with Chilis: These provide a tangy base, a touch of acidity, and an extra layer of mild heat, rounding out the chili’s complex flavor.

Unpacking the Protein Power: What Makes This Chili So Nutritious

This creamy chicken chili isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutritional powerhouse, specifically designed to be high in protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake, feel fuller longer, or support muscle health. Each generous serving (approximately 1.5 cups) of this chili delivers an impressive 64.5 grams of protein. To put that into perspective, this recipe significantly surpasses the protein content of many traditional chili recipes, offering nearly double the amount compared to some standard white chicken chilis. This substantial protein boost ensures that you’ll feel deeply satisfied and energized, making it ideal for meal prepping or as a post-workout meal.

The elevated protein content comes from a few strategic ingredient swaps and additions:

Bone Broth vs. Regular Broth: This is a game-changer. While standard chicken broth typically offers about 1 gram of protein per cup, bone broth boasts around 10 grams per cup, depending on the brand and simmering time. Bone broth is made by simmering chicken bones (often with some meat attached) for an extended period, usually 12 to 24 hours. This prolonged cooking process allows collagen, gelatin, and a wider array of proteins from the bones, cartilage, and connective tissues to break down and dissolve into the liquid. These vital proteins, especially collagen, are key to its superior protein content and provide additional benefits for joint health, skin, and gut lining. Regular chicken broth, on the other hand, is generally simmered for a much shorter duration (1-3 hours), primarily to extract flavor, without fully breaking down the more complex proteins found in bones. This results in a much lower protein yield. While bone broth can be more expensive, its nutritional density is well worth the investment for a truly high-protein meal. Always check the nutrition facts on your chosen brand, as protein content can vary.

Plain Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese: Swapping traditional cream cheese for plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is another brilliant move. Not only does Greek yogurt provide that luscious, creamy texture we crave in a chili, but it also adds a massive protein punch. Just two cups of Greek yogurt can contribute an additional 20 grams of protein to the entire dish, alongside beneficial probiotics for gut health. Opting for full-fat yogurt is recommended to ensure the smoothest consistency and minimize the risk of curdling when added to hot liquids.

Combined with the lean protein from the chicken and the fiber-rich protein from the white beans, these ingredient choices transform a simple chili into a robust, protein-packed meal that keeps you feeling full and nourished.

Choosing Your Star: The Best Chicken for Creamy Chili

The type of chicken you choose can subtly influence the flavor and texture of your high-protein chili. For optimal results, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are excellent choices, as is pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a convenient shortcut.

Chicken Breasts: If you prefer a leaner chili, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are an ideal option. They are exceptionally lean, cook relatively quickly, and are easy to shred or cut into uniform chunks. While chicken breasts can sometimes be less flavorful on their own compared to dark meat, they perfectly absorb the rich spices and creamy base of this chili, resulting in tender, succulent pieces that enhance the overall dish. To ensure maximum tenderness, avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken.

Chicken Thighs: For a more robust flavor and juicier texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Thighs inherently contain more fat than breasts, which contributes to a richer, more deeply flavored chili and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This extra fat also means a slightly higher calorie count, but the enhanced succulence is often worth it for those who appreciate a heartier chili. Thighs are also more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

Cooked Rotisserie Chicken: For ultimate convenience, especially on busy weeknights, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice. Simply shred the meat and add it to the chili during the simmering phase (or later, to prevent it from breaking down too much). This cuts down significantly on prep and cooking time, allowing you to enjoy this high-protein meal even faster.

Regardless of your choice, ensure the chicken is diced into 1-inch chunks for even cooking and a consistent bite throughout the chili.

Crafting Your Creamy Chicken Chili: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this high-protein creamy chicken chili is a straightforward process, promising a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Follow these detailed steps to achieve chili perfection:

1. Sear the Chicken and Spice It Up: Begin by heating a teaspoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your diced chicken (thighs or breasts). Sprinkle generously with your homemade taco seasoning blend – chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the fragrant spices. Sear the chicken until it’s beautifully browned on all sides, locking in those incredible flavors. While it doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage, a good sear is crucial for depth of flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: To the same pot, add your diced onions, colorful bell peppers (green and red), and minced garlic. Reduce the heat slightly if necessary and sauté these vegetables until the onions become translucent and soft, and the garlic is wonderfully fragrant, typically about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your chili. Continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink, ensuring it’s mostly cooked through before adding liquids.
3. Build the Chili Base: Pour in the bone broth, drained canned navy or Great Northern beans, and drained diced tomatoes with chilis. Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – this process, known as deglazing, adds immense flavor to your chili. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Simmer for Flavor Development: Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This crucial simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the chili to begin thickening naturally. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste will be.
5. Incorporate Corn and Cheese: After simmering, remove the lid. Stir in the whole kernel corn (whether frozen or canned and drained) and your grated Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the chili. For the best creamy texture, allow the chili to cool (uncovered) for 5-10 minutes before adding the yogurt. This slight cooling helps prevent the yogurt from curdling.
6. Add the Creamy Finish: Finally, add the plain Greek yogurt. Stir it in thoroughly until the chili transforms into a luxuriously creamy and velvety consistency. Using full-fat, room-temperature Greek yogurt is highly recommended at this stage, as it significantly reduces the risk of curdling when introduced to the warm chili.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle your rich, high-protein creamy chicken chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings and prepare to savor a truly comforting and nutritious meal.

Achieving Perfect Consistency: How to Thicken Your Chili

The ideal chili is thick, rich, and hearty, not watery. There are several effective ways to achieve that perfect consistency for your high-protein creamy chicken chili:

Reduce the Broth: The simplest method to ensure a thick chili from the start is to use less liquid. While the recipe calls for 1 cup of bone broth, you can reduce this to ½ cup if you prefer an extra thick consistency. Keep in mind that this will slightly lower the overall protein content if you are relying heavily on the bone broth for protein. Alternatively, if your chili seems too watery after simmering, simply remove the lid and allow it to simmer longer. The extended simmering time will allow excess liquid to evaporate, naturally concentrating both the thickness and the flavors.

The Cornstarch Slurry Method: For a quick and reliable thickening solution, a cornstarch slurry is your best friend. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until a smooth, lump-free paste forms. Gradually stir this slurry into your simmering chili. Continue stirring gently for a few minutes; you’ll notice the chili visibly thickening as it heats. You can add more slurry, one tablespoon at a time, until your desired thickness is achieved. This method works well without altering the flavor profile.

Mashed Beans: For a natural and flavorful thickener that also adds fiber, consider mashing some of the white beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher. This releases their starches, which help to thicken the chili without needing any additional ingredients. You can also scoop out about half a cup of the cooked beans, mash them separately, and then stir them back into the chili.

Monitor Vegetables: Remember that certain vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, can release a lot of water when cooked. If you’re adding these, you might consider sautéing them separately first to reduce their moisture content before adding them to the chili, or simply be mindful of the liquid they contribute.

The Secret to Creaminess: Mastering Greek Yogurt in Chili

The addition of Greek yogurt is what transforms this high-protein chicken chili into a wonderfully creamy and velvety dish. However, incorporating dairy into a hot liquid requires a bit of finesse to prevent curdling, which can result in an unappetizing lumpy texture.

Why Full-Fat Greek Yogurt is Best: We strongly recommend using plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for this recipe. The higher fat content in full-fat yogurt acts as a stabilizer for the proteins, making it far less prone to curdling when exposed to heat compared to non-fat or low-fat varieties. The fat provides a protective barrier around the protein molecules, preventing them from seizing up and separating. While non-fat yogurt can be used, be aware that it has a higher likelihood of curdling.

Tips for a Smooth Finish:

1. Temper the Yogurt: One of the most effective ways to prevent curdling is to bring your Greek yogurt to room temperature before adding it to the chili. Yogurt straight from the cold fridge can shock the hot chili, causing the proteins to curdle. Simply take the yogurt out of the fridge about 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to add it to the pot.
2. Add at the End: Always add the Greek yogurt as the very last step in the cooking process, after the chili has had a chance to cool down slightly. Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the chili’s temperature to drop slightly, making it less aggressive on the delicate yogurt proteins.
3. Stir Thoroughly: Once the yogurt is added, stir it in gently but thoroughly until it’s completely incorporated and the chili is uniformly creamy. Avoid vigorously whisking, which can introduce air and sometimes affect the texture.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a beautifully smooth, rich, and creamy high-protein chicken chili every time, without any unwanted lumps.

Your Ideal Cooking Companion: Choosing the Right Pot

The right cookware can significantly impact the cooking process and the final outcome of your creamy chicken chili. For a dish like chili, which benefits from even heat distribution and slow simmering, certain types of pots shine.

Dutch Ovens: A Dutch oven is arguably the best choice for this high-protein chili. Made from heavy-duty cast iron, often coated with enamel, these pots are champions at retaining heat and distributing it evenly across the cooking surface and up the sides. This consistent heat is crucial for slowly developing the chili’s complex flavors and ensuring the chicken cooks thoroughly without drying out. The heavy lid also creates a tight seal, minimizing moisture loss and allowing the chili to simmer perfectly. They are durable, versatile, and excellent for stove-top to oven cooking, although for this recipe, stove-top is sufficient.

I use this Dutch oven for my chili recipes, and it consistently delivers fantastic results.

Stockpots: A large stockpot is another perfectly suitable option, especially if you’re making a big batch of chili. Stockpots are typically lighter than Dutch ovens and can heat up quickly, making them efficient. While they may not retain heat as evenly as cast iron, a good quality stockpot with a thick bottom will work well. The most important feature is that it should be large enough to comfortably hold all your ingredients and come with a tight-fitting lid to facilitate simmering.

Ultimately, any large pot with a secure lid will work for this recipe, but a Dutch oven will offer a superior cooking experience and a richer, more consistently cooked chili.

Beyond the Recipe: Customizing Your High-Protein Chicken Chili with Substitutions and Add-Ins

One of the joys of cooking chili is its incredible adaptability. This high-protein creamy chicken chili serves as a fantastic base, inviting you to experiment with various substitutions and add-ins to match your preferences or utilize what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish truly your own!

Protein Swaps:

• Beef: Ground beef or stew meat can be used instead of chicken. Brown the beef thoroughly and drain any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
• Turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef or chicken. Cook it until no longer pink before adding other ingredients.
• Sausage: Italian sausage (mild or spicy) or chorizo can add a unique depth of flavor. Brown it and crumble it before adding to the pot.
• Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon, added as a topping, provides a smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy chili beautifully.

Bean Varieties:

• Black Beans: Introduce a deeper color and earthy flavor.
• Kidney Beans: A classic chili staple, kidney beans offer a firm texture and mild flavor.
• You can use a combination of different beans to vary texture and flavor. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them.

Creaminess Boosters (Dairy Alternatives):

• Cottage Cheese: For an even greater protein boost and a slightly different texture, blend cottage cheese until smooth and stir it in place of or in addition to some of the Greek yogurt.

Grain & Carb Additions (for extra heartiness):

• Quinoa: Cooked quinoa can be stirred into the chili towards the end of simmering for added protein and texture.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to make it an even more substantial meal.

Vegetable Enhancements:

• Sweet Potatoes: Diced sweet potatoes can be added with the broth and beans, simmering until tender for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.
• Butternut Squash: Similar to sweet potatoes, diced butternut squash adds a creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor.
• Jalapeños: For those who love heat, finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños can be added during the sautéing stage or as a fresh topping.

Flavorful Toppings & Garnishes:

• Avocado: Diced or sliced avocado adds a creamy, healthy fat element and beautiful color.
• Tortilla Strips or Crackers: For a delightful crunch and a textural contrast.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley brightens the flavor profile with their fresh notes.
• Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of extra grated cheese is always welcome!
• Sour Cream or More Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top for added creaminess and tang.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storage and Longevity: Keeping Your Chili Fresh

This high-protein creamy chicken chili is an excellent candidate for meal prepping, as it stores beautifully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Proper storage ensures its deliciousness and safety.

How to Store Leftovers:

Once your chili has cooled to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking), transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly. Stored correctly, your creamy chicken chili will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.

How to Reheat:

Reheating is simple. For individual portions, the microwave works perfectly; heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. For larger quantities, gently reheat the chili in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick after refrigeration.

Freezer Tips for Longer Enjoyment:

This chili freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for stocking up on nutritious meals. Allow the chili to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure there’s minimal air in the containers to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for 3-6 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the refrigerator.

Important Note on Dairy and Freezing: Because this dish contains dairy (grated cheese and Greek yogurt), you may notice some separation or a slightly grainier texture after freezing and reheating. This is entirely normal and does not affect the taste or safety of the chili. To minimize this, consider a proactive approach: if you know you’ll be freezing a portion of the chili, refrain from adding the Greek yogurt and grated cheese to that specific batch. Instead, add these creamy components fresh when you reheat and serve the defrosted chili. This method will yield the best possible creamy texture after freezing.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting goodness of your high-protein chicken chili whenever a craving strikes!

Perfect Pairings & More Chili Inspiration

Elevate your high-protein creamy chicken chili experience by pairing it with classic accompaniments that perfectly complement its rich flavors. Nothing beats a warm, comforting side with a hearty bowl of chili.

Pair With These Recipes:

• Homemade Southern Cornbread: A classic, buttery cornbread is the ultimate companion, perfect for soaking up every last drop of chili.
• Cornbread Muffins: Convenient, portion-sized cornbread for easy serving.
• Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: For those who love an extra kick and cheesy goodness to go with their chili.
• Sweet Potato Cornbread: A unique twist that adds a hint of sweetness and extra moisture.

If you’re a chili enthusiast looking for more delicious variations, explore these other fantastic chili recipes:

More Chili Recipes:

• Taco Chili
• Slow Cooker Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese
• Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
• Pumpkin Chili
• Sweet Potato Chili
• Leftover Turkey Chili
• Seafood Chili
• Buffalo Chicken Chili
• Chili Cheese Fries
• Butternut Squash Chili

High Protein Creamy Chicken Chili: Full Recipe

This High-Protein Creamy Chicken Chili is the perfect solution for a satisfying and flavorful meal! This recipe combines tender chicken, bone broth, protein-rich beans, and a velvety, creamy base. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish delivers the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings to make it your own.

Author: Brandi Crawford

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 35 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Course: dinner, lunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8 cups

Calories: 579 kcal

Equipment Needed

• Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Ingredients for High Protein Chicken Chili

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds skinless chicken thighs or breasts Diced into 1 inch chunks.
• ½ cup diced onions
• ½ cup diced green peppers
• ½ cup diced red peppers
• 2-3 garlic cloves Minced
• 1 cup bone broth Use ½ cup for thicker chili.
• 2 15.5 oz canned navy beans or Great Northern beans Drained
• 15.5 oz canned diced tomatoes and chilis Drained
• 1 cup whole kernel corn I used frozen, drained. You can also use canned and drained.
• 1 cup grated Monterrey Jack cheese Use any of your favorite cheese.
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt I used full fat.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Blend

• 1-2 teaspoons chili powder I used 2 teaspoons.
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for spicy.
• salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with all of the spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper). Stir until the chicken is coated with the spices and is browned.
2. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant and the chicken is no longer pink.
3. Add the bone broth, drained navy or Great Northern beans, and drained diced tomatoes and chilis to the pot and stir. Deglaze the bottom of the pot with a spoon, scraping up any browned bits to incorporate their flavor.
4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes until it begins to thicken and the flavors meld.
5. Remove the lid and add the whole kernel corn and grated Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Stir until combined and the cheese is fully melted. Allow the mixture to cool (uncovered) for 5-10 minutes to prepare for the Greek yogurt.
6. Add in the plain Greek yogurt and stir until the chili is creamy and smooth. Remember, full-fat, room-temperature yogurt works best to prevent curdling.
7. Serve your delicious High-Protein Creamy Chicken Chili warm, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Helpful Notes and Tips

• If you prefer not to use bone broth, regular chicken broth can be substituted. However, be aware that this will significantly adjust the protein content of the recipe. The protein amount in bone broth varies by brand and cook time, so always check the nutrition facts on your package.
• For the best possible creamy texture from the cheese, purchase block cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains potato starch or cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder smooth melting.
• Chili powder sold in stores typically ranges from mild to moderately spicy. If you are unfamiliar with a particular brand, taste it first or use a store-bought chili seasoning packet you trust to gauge the heat level.
• If your chili is thinner than desired, simply let it simmer longer, uncovered, to allow more liquid to evaporate and flavors to concentrate.
• Should the chili be too watery, you can use a slotted spoon to remove some of the excess liquid or carefully ladle it out. Alternatively, create a cornstarch slurry: combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl, stir until fully combined, and then gradually add it to the simmering chili. Stir until it thickens to your liking.
• Be mindful that certain vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, can release a considerable amount of water when cooked. To avoid a watery chili, use them sparingly or consider sautéing them separately beforehand to reduce their moisture content before adding them to the main pot.

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1.5cups

Calories: 579kcal

Carbohydrates: 21g

Protein: 64.5g

Fat: 21g

Nutrition Data

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.