White Bean and Chicken Chili

It was bitter cold this morning, with remnants of filthy snow and ice patches on the road.  My goal on Mondays is too treat Mary and Matt to dinner when I drive in to spend the day with Ben.  I chose warm comfort food for tonight.  It was easy to transport and something I could look forward to after the drive home.  I have tried several white chili recipes in the past.  Honestly, I wouldn't label this chili.  I would describe it more of a Tuscan soup.  This was delicious.  The touch of fennel seed gave it an exotic taste.  And, this totally oozed healthy eating!  I haven't gotten the reviews from M & M yet, but we gave it several thumbs up!

White Bean and Chicken Chili
inspired by a recipe from Giada deLaurentis
printable recipe

(These are the quantities for a single recipe.  I doubled for 2 families.)

2 T. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 lbs. ground chicken-I substituted ground turkey because it was on special!
1 tsp. salt
2 T. ground cumin
1 T. fennel seed
1 T. dried oregano
2 tsp. chili powder-ok this is why it classifies as chili!
3 T. flour
2 (15 oz.) cannelloni beans
1 bunch swiss chard, trimmed and chopped-ah, another sub on my part, I used kale, my trusty produce man pointed out the better quality and price!
1-1/2 c. frozen corn
4 c. chicken broth
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
salt and pepper
grated parmesan

In a large heavy saucepan or dutch oven heat the oil over medium high heat.  Add the onion and saute until translucent.  Add the garlic for a few seconds.

Add the ground chicken (turkey!) and brown off, stirring often.

Add the salt, cumin, fennel seed, oregano, and chili powder.  Stir until well mixed.

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat mixture.  Stir and cook for a minute.

Add the beans, corn and broth.  Bring to a boil.  Scrape off the brown bits on the bottom of the pot.

Add the swiss chard (kale!).

Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes.  Serve with fresh grated parmesan on top.

It is to barely break double digits tonight once again.  This hearty dish was warm and satisfying in this cold weather.  I encourage you to try this budget friendly, and healthy week night dinner choice.