White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful twist on traditional chili that swaps red tomatoes for white beans, green chiles, and tender chicken. Known for its mild heat and rich texture, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction without being overly spicy. It’s a popular choice for family dinners, game days, and cozy evenings because it’s hearty yet light enough to enjoy year-round. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy broth, and protein-rich chicken makes White Chicken Chili both nourishing and deeply comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s comforting without being heavy and flavorful without being overwhelming. The creamy base paired with white beans and green chiles creates a beautifully balanced dish that feels indulgent but still wholesome. It’s also incredibly flexible—you can make it mild or spicy, thick or soupy, depending on your preference. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, which makes leftovers something to look forward to.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it offers all the cozy goodness of chili in a lighter, creamier form. It’s easy to prepare, great for feeding a crowd, and perfect for meal prep. If you enjoy classic chili but want something a little different, White Chicken Chili is the ideal alternative that still delivers bold flavor and comfort.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Approximate Calories: 360–410 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Southwestern
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cans (400 g each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- Fresh coriander or spring onions for garnish (optional)
Cooking Directions
Sauté aromatics, add chicken, beans, broth, and spices, simmer gently, then stir in creamy ingredients until smooth and well blended.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add cooked chicken, white beans, green chiles, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Step 8: Add sour cream or heavy cream and stir gently until the chili is creamy and well combined.
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve White Chicken Chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime juice. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or warm cornbread on the side.
Recipe Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Mash a portion of the beans to naturally thicken the chili.
- Add cream ingredients on low heat to prevent curdling.
- Adjust thickness with extra broth if needed.
Variations
Spicy White Chicken Chili: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat.
Extra Creamy Version: Increase cream cheese or add a splash of heavy cream.
Slow Cooker Version: Add all ingredients except dairy and cook on low for 6–7 hours, stirring in dairy at the end.
Low-Carb Version: Reduce beans and add cauliflower florets instead.
Vegetarian White Chili: Replace chicken with extra beans or tofu and use vegetable broth.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer Storage: Freeze without sour cream for up to 2 months. Stir in dairy after reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that offers a lighter yet satisfying alternative to traditional chili. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for cozy family meals, gatherings, or meal prep. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your comfort food collection.
White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful twist on traditional chili that swaps red tomatoes for white beans, green chiles, and tender chicken. Known for its mild heat and rich texture, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction without being overly spicy.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
-
Step 2: Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
-
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Step 4: Add cooked chicken, white beans, green chiles, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
-
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
-
Step 6: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
-
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
-
Step 8: Add sour cream or heavy cream and stir gently until the chili is creamy and well combined.
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Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.
