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Classic cream cheese chicken chili in ceramic bowl with steam rising, garnished with cheese and cilantro

Classic Cream Cheese Chicken Chili – Ultimate Recipe Guide

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This classic cream cheese chicken chili combines tender chicken breast, creamy white beans, and rich cream cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for cold nights, this hearty chili delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple home cooking techniques. The creamy texture balances beautifully with traditional chili spices, creating a family-friendly meal that satisfies every time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
  • Add diced chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
  • Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat evenly.
  • Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with juice. Bring mixture to a rolling boil.
  • Add white beans and corn kernels. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Remove pot from heat and gradually whisk in softened cream cheese until completely smooth and incorporated.
  • Stir in fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before adding to prevent lumps
  • For spicier version, add 1-2 diced jalapeños with the onions
  • Can substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese for lighter option
  • Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 4 days
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months (cream cheese may separate slightly when reheated)
  • Author: David Cooper
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 1/8 of recipe)
  • Calories: 385 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Find it online: https://fabiloustaste.com/classic-cream-cheese-chicken-chili/