If you're anything like me, you crave something cozy, comforting, and healthy all at once—and this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe is exactly that. It's my go-to on hectic nights when I want real food fast, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Packed with tender shredded chicken breast, creamy white beans, and a subtle kick from green chilies, this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot favorite comes together in about 30 minutes and never disappoints.
I’ve made this more times than I can count for my family, and every time it gets devoured to the last spoonful. Whether you're keeping it clean or just craving a nourishing, satisfying bowl of chili, this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe has become one of my most reliable weeknight wins—and I know it'll earn a spot in your rotation too.
Why This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe is Perfect for Your Family
As a mom and home cook always trying to balance flavor and nutrition, this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe has been a total lifesaver for my family. It takes everything we love about classic white chicken chili—the creamy texture, the cozy flavor—and lightens it up with lean chicken breast and a swirl of Greek yogurt, without losing any of that comfort food magic. What I especially love is how the Instant Pot brings it all together so quickly, blending the flavors perfectly while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
And since it’s a true one-pot meal, cleanup is minimal—leaving more time for family dinners and less time at the sink. Whether I’m prepping lunches for the week or serving a big bowl straight from the pot, this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe checks all the boxes: easy, hearty, and totally nourishing. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot on repeat too.
Jump to:
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Adaptations
- Creative Variations and Substitutions
- Essential Equipment for Success
- Storage and Reheating Instructions
- The Little Trick That Changed My White Chicken Chili Forever
- FAQ
- Why This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
- Related
- Pairing
- Healthy White Chicken Chili (Instant Pot) Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs for extra flavor)
- Great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- Diced green chilies
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess without heavy cream)
- Taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- Ground cumin
- Chili powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Shredded cheese (optional)
- Diced avocado
- Green onions
Healthy Substitutions:
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free taco seasoning or make your own blend
- Dairy-free: Skip the Greek yogurt or use coconut cream
- Lower sodium: Use no-salt-added beans and broth
- Whole30 compliant: Omit Greek yogurt and cheese, use compliant seasonings
- Keto-friendly: This low carb Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe already fits keto macros perfectly
The great northern beans provide excellent fiber and protein, while the Greek yogurt adds probiotics and creates that signature creamy white chicken chili texture without heavy cream.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep and Sauté (8 minutes)
- Gather all ingredients and dice the onion, mince the garlic, and drain and rinse the great northern beans thoroughly.
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
This prep work and sautéing builds the flavor foundation for your healthy white bean chicken chili.
Add Chicken and Seasonings (3 minutes)
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breast directly into the pot.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and paprika over the chicken.
- Add the diced green chilies and give everything a gentle stir to coat the chicken with spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained great northern beans.
The liquid should just cover the chicken. Don't worry if it looks a bit thin right now – the pressure cooking process will concentrate the flavors beautifully.
Pressure Cook (20 minutes)
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
This gentle cooking method keeps the chicken incredibly tender and prevents the beans from getting mushy.
Shred and Finish (5 minutes)
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the Greek yogurt gradually to create that creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker consistency, use the sauté function to simmer the chili for 2-3 minutes with the lid off, stirring occasionally.
- Step 1: Prep and Sauté
Sauté onions and garlic in the Instant Pot to build flavor.
- Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Add chicken, beans, broth, and spices to the pot.
- Step 3: Pressure Cook
Pressure cook for 12 minutes and allow 10 minutes of natural release.
- Step 4: Shred and Finish
Shred chicken, stir in Greek yogurt, and season to taste.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Temperature Control: Always add the Greek yogurt after pressure cooking to prevent curdling. Stir it in gradually while the chili is still warm but not boiling.
- Texture Preference: For a heartier texture, mash about half the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot. This creates natural thickening without flour or cornstarch.
- Spice Level: This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot recipe creates a mild chili perfect for families. For more heat, add a diced jalapeño with the onions or include some of the juice from the canned green chilies.
- Batch Cooking: This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot recipe doubles easily for meal prep. Store portions in the freezer for up to 3 months (without the Greek yogurt – add fresh when reheating).
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Adaptations
This healthy white chicken chili instant pot recipe delivers impressive nutritional value. Each serving provides approximately 28 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle building and satiety. The combination of lean chicken breast and fiber-rich beans creates a balanced meal that supports steady blood sugar levels.
The Greek yogurt adds probiotics for digestive health while keeping the calorie count reasonable. At roughly 280 calories per serving, this low calorie white chicken chili satisfies your comfort food cravings without the guilt.
Perfect for These Diets:
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free when using certified seasonings
- High-protein: Over 25g protein per serving
- Low-fat: Under 6g fat per serving
- Whole30: With simple modifications
- Keto: Naturally low in carbs
Serving Suggestions: This creamy white chicken chili pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, baked sweet potato, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with whole grain cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
Creative Variations and Substitutions
- Southwest Style: Add corn kernels, black beans alongside the white beans, and top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
- Cilantro Lime Twist: Stir in fresh lime juice and extra cilantro at the end for a bright, zesty flavor profile.
- Loaded Chili: Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for an indulgent presentation.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with extra beans and vegetable broth. Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for texture.
- Spicy Version: Include diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste. Start small and build up the heat gradually.
- Creamy Coconut: For dairy-free diners, substitute coconut cream for Greek yogurt and add a pinch of lime zest.
Essential Equipment for Success
- Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: A 6-quart or larger model works best for this Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot recipe. The pressure cooking method creates incredibly tender chicken and melds flavors quickly.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your Instant Pot's inner surface.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
- Can Opener: For the beans and green chilies.
- Large Serving Ladle: Makes serving easier and prevents spills.
- Alternative Equipment: This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot recipe adapts well to slow cooker cooking. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in Greek yogurt during the last 30 minutes.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover healthy white chicken chili in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two as they continue to meld together.
- Freezer Storage: This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze portions without the Greek yogurt and add fresh yogurt when reheating.
- Reheating Tips: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the desired consistency. Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Meal Prep Strategy: Divide into single-serving containers with your favorite toppings already added. This makes healthy weeknight dinners effortless.
The Little Trick That Changed My White Chicken Chili Forever
I’ll never forget the chilly weeknight I finally cracked the code to the perfect healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe. I had made it a dozen times before, but something always felt a little... off. Too bland, too mushy, not quite right. Then one evening, I slowed down—sautéed the onions and garlic until golden and fragrant, let the pot naturally release instead of rushing it, and gently stirred in Greek yogurt at the very end. That was the moment it all changed.
The chili came out creamy but not heavy, with layers of cozy, comforting flavor that hugged every bite. Now, every time I make this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot, I remember that night—and how just a few thoughtful steps turned a good recipe into a family favorite we crave all winter long
FAQ
Why is my white chicken chili so watery?
White chicken chili can turn out watery if there's too much broth or not enough thickening ingredients. Natural pressure release and stirring in Greek yogurt help concentrate flavors and improve texture. You can also mash some beans before serving to naturally thicken the chili without flour or cornstarch. Simmering uncovered for a few minutes also helps.
How long do you cook chili in the Instant Pot?
For white chicken chili, cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural pressure release. This timing ensures the chicken is tender and flavors are well-developed. Thicker, meatier chilis may need 15–20 minutes. Always adjust based on ingredients and whether you're starting with fresh or frozen protein.
What to add to white chicken chili to make it thicker?
To thicken white chicken chili, mash a portion of the beans before serving or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water). Greek yogurt stirred in after pressure cooking also adds creaminess and body. If needed, simmer on sauté mode for a few minutes uncovered to reduce liquid.
Is it possible to overcook chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, overcooking chicken in an Instant Pot can lead to dry or stringy meat. Stick to 10–12 minutes of high pressure for chicken breasts, with a natural release for best texture. Overcooking is more common when using smaller cuts or skipping the natural release, which helps the meat reabsorb moisture.
Why This Healthy White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
This healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe is more than just a quick dinner—it’s the kind of comforting, nourishing meal that brings everyone to the table and leaves them asking for seconds. With its creamy texture, lean protein, and hearty beans, it delivers the best of both worlds: feel-good food that’s also good for you. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight win or prepping meals ahead of time, this dish fits right in with other family favorites like my Instant Pot Bolognese Pasta and hearty Hamburger Helper Instant Pot recipe. So pull out your Instant Pot, let the flavors do their magic, and enjoy the kind of meal that makes even the busiest nights feel special.
With love from my kitchen to yours,
– Taylor Monroe, Tasty Eats Co.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this healthy white chicken chili Instant Pot recipe:
Healthy White Chicken Chili (Instant Pot) Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Instant Pot 6-quart or larger
- 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring without scratching liner
- 1 Measuring Set Cups and spoons
- 1 Can Opener For beans and chilies
- 1 Serving Ladle For easy serving
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breast Boneless, skinless
- 2 cans Great northern beans 15 oz each, drained and rinsed
- 1 can Diced green chilies 4 oz
- 1 Onion Medium, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 4 cups Chicken broth Low sodium
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Plain, stirred in at the end
- 1 packet Taco seasoning Or use homemade blend
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
- Salt and pepper To taste
Instructions
- Dice onion and garlic.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the Instant Pot using sauté function.
- Add chicken, taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth on top—do not stir.
- Seal lid and pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Let Instant Pot naturally release for 10 minutes.
- Remove chicken and shred it using two forks, then return to the pot.
- Stir in Greek yogurt until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese, avocado, or green onions.
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