Mom’s White Chili with Quinoa
A comforting white chili made with tender chicken, quinoa, green chilies, and bright lime. Hearty, flavorful, and slightly creamy, this dish is perfect for cozy meals and easy leftovers.
Quick Info
Makes: about 3 quarts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A warm, satisfying chili with a fresh twist.
Hearty and protein-packed with chicken and quinoa
Bright, tangy flavor from lime and green chilies
Naturally thickened by quinoa
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
2 chicken breast, diced
1 quart of chicken stock
1 onion, diced
5 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
2 - 4 oz cans green chilies
1 cup white quinoa, rinsed
2 bay leaves
1 ½ teaspoons cumin
1 - 14 oz can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
1 - 12 oz bag frozen corn
Olive oil
Salt & pepper
Serve With
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Quartered limes
Blue corn tortilla chips
Instructions
Step 1
Add olive oil to a heavy-bottom pot along with the onion and garlic. Season and sauté over medium-high heat until the onion is soft and translucent without browning.
Step 2
Add the diced chicken, season, and cook until the chicken is pale and no longer pink.
Step 3
Add cumin, bay leaves, green chilies, chicken stock, and quinoa. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, until the quinoa is puffed and the tails begin to unfurl. The chili will thicken—this is expected.
Step 4
Add cannellini beans, lime juice, and corn. Continue cooking for 3–5 minutes, until the corn is warmed through.
Step 5
Adjust seasoning and serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, lime, and tortilla chips.
Tips for Success
Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness
Don’t brown the onions—keep the flavor clean and light
Let the chili simmer gently for best texture
Adjust lime juice to taste for brightness
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Serving Ideas
Serve as a hearty main dish
Pair with cornbread or a side salad
Top with avocado or extra lime for variation
