When the cold weather sets in, there's nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of chili to soothe your soul and fill your belly. Our chicken and white bean chili is a delightful twist on the classic, offering tender chunks of chicken and plump white beans swimming in a rich, creamy broth. It's the perfect dinner option for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting and satisfying.

One of the great things about this chili is its versatility. You can make it in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together slowly over several hours while you go about your day. Or, if you're short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to whip up a batch in no time. Both methods yield delicious results, so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule.

To start making this mouth - watering chili, you'll need a few key ingredients. First, gather some boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into bite - sized pieces for easy eating. The chicken adds a lean source of protein to the dish, making it a healthy choice for dinner. Next, grab a can of white beans. Cannellini beans are a popular option, but you can use any type of white bean you prefer. They add a wonderful texture and a nutty flavor to the chili.

You'll also need some vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the chili. Onions are a must - have. Their sweet and savory flavor forms the base of the dish. Chop them up finely and sauté them in a bit of olive oil until they're translucent. Garlic is another essential ingredient. Its pungent aroma and flavor add a depth of taste to the chili. Mince a few cloves and add them to the onions once they're cooked.

For the creamy element, you can use either cream cheese or sour cream. Cream cheese gives the chili a rich and velvety texture, while sour cream adds a tangy note. Start by adding a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. You'll also want to include some chicken broth to create the broth of the chili. It helps to bring all the flavors together and gives the chili a nice consistency.

Spices are what really make this chili shine. A combination of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper will give the chili a warm and spicy kick. You can adjust the amount of cayenne depending on how hot you like your food. A sprinkle of salt and pepper is also necessary to season the dish properly.

If you're using a slow cooker, start by browning the chicken pieces in a skillet with a little oil. This step helps to seal in the juices and add flavor. Then, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, the white beans, the chicken broth, the cream cheese or sour cream, and all the spices. Stir everything well and set the slow cooker on low for 4 - 6 hours or on high for 2 - 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will blend.

If you're using a pressure cooker, follow a similar process. Brown the chicken in the pressure cooker using the sauté function. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened. Then, add the remaining ingredients. Close the pressure cooker and set it to the appropriate settings for chili or beans. It usually takes about 10 - 15 minutes under pressure, followed by a natural release of the pressure.

Once the chili is done, give it a good stir. You can serve it in bowls, topped with some shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of additional sour cream. It's a great meal on its own, but you can also pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a more complete dinner. The creamy texture of the chili combined with the tender chicken and the hearty white beans makes it a crowd - pleaser, whether you're cooking for your family or having friends over.

In conclusion, our chicken and white bean chili is a fantastic dinner option for cold nights. Its creamy and flavorful nature, along with the ease of preparation in either a slow cooker or a pressure cooker, makes it a go - to recipe. So, the next time the temperature drops, don't hesitate to whip up a batch of this delicious chili and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal.