White Chicken Chili is a warm and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights or when you’re looking for something comforting yet different from the classic red chili. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken, beans, and a subtle kick of spice, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
White Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili. It’s rich and creamy without being too heavy and has a refreshing balance of spices. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this chili is quick to make, highly customizable, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Here’s a glimpse of what goes into this amazing chili:
- Cooked shredded chicken
- White beans for a hearty texture
- Green chilies for a mild spice and smoky flavor
- Cream cheese to create that signature creamy base
You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below!
Directions
- Cook the aromatics: In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the base: Stir in green chilies, spices, and chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Combine the ingredients: Add shredded chicken, white beans, and corn. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Make it creamy: Stir in cream cheese until smooth, then add heavy cream for extra richness.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Blending Tip: For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the beans before adding them.
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Beans: Swap white beans for chickpeas or black beans for a unique twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with diced sweet potatoes or cauliflower, and use vegetable broth.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked ground turkey or sausage for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a gooey texture.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this chili with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crusty baguette. A fresh side salad or avocado slices can add a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken works as a quick alternative, though freshly cooked chicken will provide the best texture and flavor.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add more green chilies, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients except cream cheese and heavy cream to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream before serving.
4. What toppings go well with White Chicken Chili?
Great options include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is a comforting and versatile dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or sharing a pot with friends, this chili is always a hit. Try it today and savor the warmth in every spoonful!
Print
White Chicken Chili
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy, flavorful twist on traditional chili, White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a creamy base to create the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick to make, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant.
- Add the green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and frozen corn (if using). Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker chili, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
I just made this tonight on a chilly evening and it was perfect. The only thing I did differently was instead of chicken I had left over smoked turkey to use. This is delicious with a serving add in of avocado and cilantro!