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The Best White Chicken Chili

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (adjusted from 4) 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting, and flavor-packed dish made with tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a perfectly spiced broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy nights and can be ready in under an hour. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a hearty and delicious dinner!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breasts/thighs)
  • 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
  • 1 (4 oz) can green chilies
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese
  • Avocado slices
  • Jalapeños
  • Sour cream
  • Tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Add the Chicken & Spices:

    • Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and green chilies.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  3. Simmer with Beans & Broth:

    • Pour in the chicken broth and add the white beans.
    • Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Make It Creamy:

    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream.
    • Stir until fully melted and incorporated. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
  5. Add Freshness & Serve:

    • Squeeze in fresh lime juice and stir in chopped cilantro.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
    • Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Substitutions:
    • Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
    • Use navy beans or pinto beans if white beans aren’t available.
    • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream cheese/heavy cream.
  • Slow Cooker Version:
    • Add all ingredients except cream cheese, heavy cream, and lime juice to a slow cooker.
    • Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in creamy ingredients at the end.
  • Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to deepen.
  • Storage:
    • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
    • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg