Chicken Sausage Chili with Spinach & White Beans

Introduction

If you love a hearty bowl of chili but want something lighter and packed with nutrition, this Chicken Sausage Chili with Spinach & White Beans is the perfect balance between comfort and freshness. It combines lean chicken sausage, creamy white beans, and tender spinach in a savory tomato-based broth that’s both wholesome and deeply satisfying. The chili is layered with flavors from garlic, onion, and smoky spices, creating a cozy dish that’s nourishing yet indulgent.

Unlike heavier red chilis, this version has a bright, balanced profile thanks to the addition of spinach and white beans. The chicken sausage adds protein and rich, savory depth, while the spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients. Each spoonful delivers warmth and heartiness without feeling heavy — ideal for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or casual gatherings. It’s a modern twist on classic chili that proves comfort food can be both delicious and good for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light yet hearty: Lean chicken sausage keeps it filling without extra fat.
Packed with nutrition: Spinach and beans deliver fiber, iron, and protein.
One-pot convenience: Simple to make and easy to clean up.
Customizable heat: Adjust spice levels to your liking.
Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Chili:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound (450 g) chicken sausage, casings removed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
3 cups (90 g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon or lime

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Shaved Parmesan or feta (optional)
Crusty bread or warm tortillas on the side

Equipment:

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Chicken Sausage (6–8 minutes)

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside on a plate, leaving a bit of the rendered oil in the pot for flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes)

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Sauté for about 4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. The aromatics will form the base of your chili’s rich, savory flavor.

3. Add the Spices (2 minutes)

Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly to toast the spices gently and release their full aroma. This step builds depth and infuses every ingredient with flavor.

4. Add Tomatoes and Broth (5 minutes)

Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes, mixing well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. The combination of tomato and broth creates a balanced, slightly tangy base for the chili.

5. Add Beans and Simmer (20 minutes)

Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the white beans and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Stir in Spinach and Lemon Juice (5 minutes)

Add the chopped spinach during the final 5 minutes of cooking. Stir until it wilts and blends evenly into the chili. Finally, squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the sausage.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chili into warm bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, and if you like, add a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta for a savory touch. Serve with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even a scoop of cooked quinoa for a satisfying meal.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Boost the veggies: Add diced zucchini, kale, or carrots for extra nutrients.
Use spicy sausage: For a kick, choose hot chicken sausage instead of mild.
Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a smooth texture.
Thicken it up: Mash a few beans before simmering for a creamier consistency.
Add herbs: Fresh thyme or oregano pairs beautifully with the sausage flavor.

Variations & Customizations

Turkey Sausage Swap: Use ground turkey or turkey sausage for a leaner variation.
Tomato-Free Version: Replace tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.
Hearty Grain Addition: Add cooked farro, brown rice, or quinoa to make it extra filling.
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for added heat.
Vegan Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or tempeh crumbles.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Sausage Chili with Spinach & White Beans shines as a main dish but pairs wonderfully with sides like cornbread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. For a wholesome meal, serve it over brown rice or cauliflower rice.

It’s also perfect for casual gatherings or meal prep — just store it in the fridge and reheat when needed. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth if it thickens.
Meal prep tip: Divide into individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked chicken sausage?
Yes, slice or crumble pre-cooked sausage and add it during the simmering stage to infuse flavor without overcooking.

What kind of beans work best?
Cannellini or Great Northern beans are ideal for their mild flavor and creamy texture, but navy beans also work well.

Can I substitute spinach with another green?
Absolutely. Kale, Swiss chard, or even baby arugula can be used for variation in flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Sausage Chili with Spinach & White Beans is proof that comfort food can be both wholesome and exciting. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and vibrant greens, it offers a hearty yet nourishing meal you’ll want to make again and again.

With its bold flavors, easy one-pot preparation, and bright finishing notes, this chili is perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or cozy weekends. Serve it piping hot, load it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the comforting warmth of a dish that brings health and flavor together in every bite.