When the air turns crisp, and Halloween is just around the corner, nothing beats a comforting bowl of white bean chili. This creamy, flavorful chili is packed with protein, veggies, and mild spices, making it a nourishing dish perfect for chilly fall nights. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be customized with toppings to make it festive and fun for Halloween gatherings.
What you put on top of your chili is key too. Pegs loves topping her chili with red onions, goat shreds and a corn chip. Her new favs besides RW Garcia BBQ is an heirloom corn dippers from Pipcorn. Everyone leaves with full bellies and a satisfaction each year. We love paring our Chicken Chili with corn bread and honey butter. For dessert we make our famous pumpkin squares.
Why White Bean Chili for Halloween?
Chili is a classic for Halloween and other autumn events because it’s easy to make, warms you up from the inside, and can feed a crowd. This new recipe is great for those who can’t have nightshades like tomatoes, chili peppers, bell peppers and lots of hot spice. Using white beans instead of traditional red or black gives the chili a smooth, subtle flavor and a creamy texture. White beans are also rich in fiber and protein, keeping everyone fueled and satisfied throughout the night.
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply looking for a cozy meal to enjoy after trick-or-treating, this white bean chili is an easy, healthy way to enjoy the season.
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White Bean Veggie Chili (nightshade-free)
A Family favorite and Halloween tradition
- Total Time: 50 mins
Ingredients
- 1 white onion, small diced’
- 1–2 lbs. Chicken: ground or parts: thighs or breasts cooked and shredded or cut into chunks.
- 2 carrots, peeled and small diced
- 1 stalks of celery, small diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, shiitake or king oysters, diced
- 1 cup Zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cauliflower diced
- 1/4 C Hatch green chili, (OMIT if on Reset)
- 3–4 garlics, minced
- 3 Tbsp. Chili powder blend
- 1–2 tsp. cumin
- 1–2 tsp. oregano
- 1/2 tsp. Coriander
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 2 cans cooked white beans, undrained: cannellini, navy beans or great northern
- 1 fresh bay leaf
- 2 C chicken stock
- 1 C sour cream or coconut cream or vegan sour cream
- 1/4 –1/2 cup white beans to puree and thicken chili
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large stock pot, sauté́ the chicken, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, mushrooms until the onion begins to turn translucent and meat is cooked. Add in salt, pepper, and chili powder blend.
- Add white beans, minus 1/2 cup for mashing, any veggies, the stock and bay leaf.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken and vegetables are fork tender.
- Stir in mashed white beans, cook 5 minutes, then TURN OFF HEAT.
- Allow the chili to sit 15 minutes. It will thicken.
- Stir in sour cream or coconut milk.
- If making a day ahead, reheat on low heat and serve.
- Garnish with topping suggestions: red onions, chili’s avocado, grain-free tortillas or corn chips.
Notes
Garnish Topping Ideas:
- Avocados, diced
- Fresh cilantro, minced
- Red onions, diced
- Fresh chili peppers, finely diced
- Pepper Jack and or cheddar cheeses, shredded
- Sour cream or vegan sour cream
- Grain free tortillas, if on a cleanse Reset: Sprouts Everything or Siete.
- Corn chips like a Fritos: Organic RW Garcia corn chips or my new favorite corn chips by Pipcorn
Variations: Vegetarian, plant based and dairy free options:
Replace chicken with 2-cups finely diced; King oyster and shiitake mushrooms
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
Making It Festive for Halloween
This white bean chili is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, but adding Halloween touches can make it extra fun. Try serving it in hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a seasonal touch. If you’re feeling crafty, you can even cut tortilla strips into bat shapes, bake them, and use them as spooky, crispy toppings!
Health Benefits of White Bean Chili
White bean chili isn’t just delicious; it’s also full of nutrition that helps keep everyone feeling great. Here’s a look at the health perks of the main ingredients:
- White Beans: High in fiber and protein, white beans help support digestive health and keep you full for longer. They also offer iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, essential for energy and overall wellness.
- Garlic and Onion: Known for their immune-supportive properties, garlic and onion contain compounds that may help fight off seasonal colds and flu.
- Cumin and Coriander: These spices not only enhance the flavor but also bring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, helping to keep your body feeling balanced and nourished.
FAQs
1. Can I make this chili vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegan bone broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a hearty vegan white bean chili that’s just as delicious and satisfying.
2. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this chili will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It also freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the season.
3. Can I use other types of beans?
Definitely! While white beans give this chili a mild, creamy texture, feel free to swap in other beans like navy beans, chickpeas, or even black beans for a different flavor profile.
With its cozy warmth and creamy texture, this Halloween White Bean Chili is the perfect addition to your fall recipe lineup. Nutritious, filling, and bursting with seasonal flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite for Halloween and beyond. Happy cooking!