The New Year Calls For Comfort Food

 White Chicken Chili

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours – 8 hours
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

3 15-oz. cans Great Northern beans, divided
1/3 c. water
1½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
½ small red onion, diced
3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 4-oz. can mild green chilies
1 T. ground cumin
2 t. chili powder
1 t. Mexican oregano
1 t. ground coriander
½ t. chipotle pepper powder
3 c. chicken broth, preferably organic
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
1½ c. Mexican blend cheese, finely shredded, divided

Optional, to serve:

¼ c. fresh cilantro, chopped
1 small avocado, diced
1 medium jalapeño pepper, sliced
2 large limes, cut into wedges

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess salt. Place half the beans in a blender or food processor with some water and process until blended, but still slightly chunky. Transfer the puréed beans to a 5 or 6-quart slower cooker, along with the remaining whole beans.
2. Add chicken, red onion, garlic, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, Mexican oregano, coriander, chipotle pepper powder, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper, as desired, and stir to combine. Cover and set cook time to 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low.
3. When cook time is complete, remove lid and add 1 cup of the shredded cheese and stir to combine. Cover and allow cheese to melt for 1-2 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings, as desired. Serve immediately with remaining Mexican cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado, jalapeño slices, and/or lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy!