White Chicken Chili
There are some days, usually Tuesdays after soccer practice and before piano lessons, when chaos truly reigns in my kitchen. The kids are buzzing with energy (or sometimes, just plain hanger!), and I need a meal that’s both nourishing and comforting, but also incredibly simple to prepare. That’s when my go-to recipe for White Chicken Chili saves the day.
I remember the first time I made it, years ago, on a particularly chilly evening. My youngest, then a toddler, took one tentative spoonful and declared it “yummy soup!” — a high honor in our house. Since then, this creamy, hearty White Chicken Chili has become a beloved staple, a warm hug in a bowl that gathers everyone around the table.
It’s perfect for those busy weeknights, but also special enough for a casual weekend dinner with friends. This isn’t your average red chili; this White Chicken Chili offers a lighter, yet equally satisfying, flavor profile with tender chicken, savory beans, and a creamy broth that just melts in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This White Chicken Chili isn’t just another dinner; it’s a revelation for your taste buds and a blessing for your busy schedule. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. As a mom of three, I know the value of a recipe that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
You simply sauté a few ingredients, simmer, and then stir in the creamy goodness. Done! Second, everyone loves it.
Even the pickiest eaters in my family devour this White Chicken Chili. The mild, creamy flavor appeals to all ages, making dinner time a breeze instead of a battle. Third, this dish is wonderfully nourishing.
Packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the white beans, and fresh vegetables, you feel good serving this meal to your family. It truly nourishes their bodies and warms their souls. Finally, this White Chicken Chili is incredibly versatile.
You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add your favorite toppings to customize each bowl. It’s perfect for meal prepping, too, as the flavors only deepen with time. Say goodbye to dinner dilemmas and hello to your new favorite White Chicken Chili recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this amazing White Chicken Chili recipe is the first simple step towards a delicious meal. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store.
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 large | Yellow onion, chopped |
| 3 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 4 cups | Cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts) |
| 2 cans (15-oz each) | Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained |
| 1 can (15-oz) | Corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn) |
| 1 can (4-oz) | Diced green chiles, undrained |
| 4 cups | Chicken broth, low sodium |
| 1 tsp | Cumin |
| 1 tsp | Dried oregano |
| ½ tsp | Chili powder (optional, for a little extra kick) |
| ¼ tsp | Cayenne pepper (optional, if you like it spicy) |
| 4 oz | Cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes |
| ½ cup | Sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option) |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Substitutions & Variations
One of the beautiful things about this White Chicken Chili recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your family’s preferences, what you have on hand, or dietary needs.
* Protein Power: No cooked chicken? No problem! You can use raw chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes.
Sauté them with the onion and garlic until cooked through, then shred them directly in the pot. Leftover turkey works wonderfully too, making this a fantastic post-Thanksgiving meal. For a vegetarian White Chicken Chili, simply omit the chicken and add an extra can of beans (like cannellini or chickpeas) or some cooked quinoa for protein.
* Bean Bonanza: While Great Northern beans are traditional for White Chicken Chili, feel free to experiment. Cannellini beans or even a mix of different white beans will work beautifully. Just remember to rinse and drain them thoroughly.
* Dairy-Free Delight: To make this a dairy-free White Chicken Chili, skip the cream cheese and sour cream. Instead, use a can of full-fat coconut milk (the creamy part from the top) for richness, or try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You can also thicken it slightly with a cornstarch slurry.
* Veggies Galore: Boost the nutrition and color by adding more vegetables. Sauté diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) with the onion. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking, or add some zucchini cubes.
* Heat It Up: If your family enjoys a spicier White Chicken Chili, definitely increase the cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also add a finely diced jalapeño (seeded for less heat, or with seeds for more fire!) to sauté with the onion. A dash of hot sauce at the end also works wonders.
* Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth of flavor to your White Chicken Chili.
* Herbaceous Boost: Fresh cilantro stirred in at the very end brightens the flavor profile.
Remember, this White Chicken Chili is your canvas! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it truly your own.
This section highlights the amazing versatility of white chicken chili, allowing you to easily customize ingredients. If you’re eager to try another highly praised variation, consider exploring our Award-Winning White Chicken Chili for a truly exceptional twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this White Chicken Chili is truly a simple and rewarding experience. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal on your table in no time.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir frequently. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
2. Combine Ingredients (Excluding Dairy): Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed and drained Great Northern beans, drained corn, undrained diced green chiles, and chicken broth. Add the cumin, dried oregano, and optionally, chili powder and cayenne pepper.
Give everything a good stir to combine all the delicious ingredients.
3. Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let the White Chicken Chili simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This simmering time is crucial; it allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and deepen, creating that rich, complex taste we love in a homemade White Chicken Chili.
4.
Create Creaminess: Once the chili has simmered, remove it from the heat. Carefully stir in the softened cream cheese cubes until they are completely melted and incorporated into the chili, making it wonderfully creamy. Next, stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt).
This step truly transforms the texture, making your White Chicken Chili incredibly rich and smooth.
5. Season and Serve: Taste the White Chicken Chili and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Sometimes I add a little extra pinch of chili powder or cumin here if I feel it needs it. Ladle your warm, inviting White Chicken Chili into bowls and get ready to enjoy.
That’s it! You’ve just created a comforting and delicious pot of White Chicken Chili that your whole family will adore.
Pro Tips for Success
Making a truly exceptional White Chicken Chili is simple, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing.
* Prep Your Chicken: For the easiest White Chicken Chili, use pre-cooked, shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a total lifesaver here! You can also boil or bake chicken breasts ahead of time.
If you’re cooking raw chicken for this recipe, cube it and sauté it until browned and cooked through before adding the other ingredients. This step adds great flavor.
* Don’t Rush the Simmer: The 20-30 minute simmering period is essential.
It’s when all the spices and ingredients truly get to know each other, creating that deep, complex flavor profile that makes this White Chicken Chili so special. Don’t cut it short!
* Soften Cream Cheese: Always ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it.
This prevents lumps and helps it melt smoothly into the chili, giving your White Chicken Chili that luxurious, creamy texture without any fuss. Cut it into smaller cubes for even faster melting.
* Taste and Adjust: Seasoning is key!
Always taste your White Chicken Chili before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices as needed. Sometimes it needs just a little extra pinch of cumin or a dash more salt to bring all the flavors into balance. A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end can also brighten the whole dish.
* Embrace the Garnishes: Garnishes aren’t just for looks; they add texture and fresh flavor! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of extra sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, and crispy tortilla strips or crumbled tortilla chips are all fantastic additions that truly complete the White Chicken Chili experience.
* Make Ahead Magic: This White Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Consider making a double batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for another busy night.
* Thickening Power: If you find your White Chicken Chili is too thin for your liking, you have a couple of options.
You can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon, or remove about a cup of the chili, blend it until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot. This naturally thickens the chili without needing flour or cornstarch.
These simple tips will ensure your homemade White Chicken Chili comes out perfect every single time!
Achieving an amazing white chicken chili often comes down to mastering a few key preparation tips, like efficiently prepping your chicken. For those with dietary considerations, ensuring your ingredients align is crucial; you might also be interested in our dedicated recipe for Gluten free white chicken chili.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This White Chicken Chili is fantastic for meal prep, and it holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezer. Here’s how to store and reheat it to keep those delicious flavors locked in.
* Refrigeration: Once your White Chicken Chili has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
* Freezing: This is one of my favorite meals to freeze. Let the White Chicken Chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. If using bags, lay them flat for easy stacking in your freezer.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
* Reheating (Stovetop): For the best results, reheat your White Chicken Chili on the stovetop.
Pour the desired amount into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot and bubbling. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
* Reheating (Microwave): For a quick individual serving, transfer the chili to a microwave-safe bowl.
Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stir, and then continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as the dairy can sometimes separate if microwaved too intensely.
* Important Note: If your chili separates slightly upon reheating (which can sometimes happen with dairy-based dishes), don’t worry!
Just give it a good stir, and it usually comes right back together. The taste will still be incredible. Enjoy your stored White Chicken Chili as a quick and easy meal on those busy days!
What to Serve With This Recipe
While this White Chicken Chili is hearty and delicious enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides and toppings can elevate the meal into a true feast. Think about adding layers of texture and flavor!
* Cornbread: A classic choice! Warm, fluffy cornbread or cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy chili. The slight sweetness of cornbread beautifully complements the savory flavors of the White Chicken Chili.
* Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are a must for scooping up the chili, or crumbling them directly into your bowl adds a wonderful textural contrast.
* Rice: Serve your White Chicken Chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for an even more filling meal. The rice soaks up the chili’s flavorful broth perfectly.
* Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chili. This adds some fresh greens to your meal.
* Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is another excellent option for dipping and wiping the bowl clean.
* Toppings Bar (My Favorite!): This is where the real fun begins! Set out a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their own bowl of White Chicken Chili.
* Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh, chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note.
* Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado cubes provide a lovely texture and healthy fats.
* Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds extra creaminess and a tangy flavor.
* Shredded Cheese: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend are all fantastic choices.
* Lime Wedges: A fresh squeeze of lime juice at the end truly brightens all the flavors in the White Chicken Chili.
* Jalapeños: Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños for those who crave extra heat.
* Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a mild oniony bite and a pop of color.
With these accompaniments, your White Chicken Chili becomes a complete and utterly satisfying meal that pleases everyone around the table.
Beyond enjoying this chili as a standalone meal, the right pairings and toppings can transform it into an even grander feast. If you love the flavors of white chicken and are looking for another comforting dish, try our Easy White Chicken Enchiladas for another delightful meal idea.
FAQs
Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker, sauté the onion and garlic first (this step adds a lot of flavor, so don’t skip it if you have time). Then, add all ingredients except the cream cheese and sour cream to your slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the softened cream cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. Your slow cooker White Chicken Chili will be wonderfully tender and flavorful.
Is White Chicken Chili spicy?
This particular White Chicken Chili recipe is designed to be mild, making it very family-friendly. The diced green chiles provide a subtle tang rather than intense heat. However, you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference!
For more heat, add extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or include finely diced fresh jalapeños (with or without seeds, depending on how hot you like it) when you sauté the onions. You can also offer hot sauce at the table for individual customization.
Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Yes, absolutely! This White Chicken Chili freezes beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The creamy texture holds up very well after freezing and thawing, giving you a convenient meal anytime you need a comforting bowl of White Chicken Chili.
What kind of chicken works best for White Chicken Chili?
Cooked and shredded chicken works best for this White Chicken Chili recipe. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, providing tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. You can also boil or bake chicken breasts or thighs ahead of time and then shred them.
If you’re starting with raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and sauté it in the pot before adding the other ingredients. This ensures your White Chicken Chili has perfectly cooked chicken throughout.
How do I thicken White Chicken Chili if it’s too thin?
If your White Chicken Chili seems too thin for your liking, here are a few simple ways to thicken it:
1. Mash Beans: Remove about 1/2 to 1 cup of the chili mixture (mostly beans), mash it with a fork or potato masher, and then return it to the pot. Stir well.
The starches from the mashed beans will naturally thicken the chili.
2. Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
Stir this mixture into the simmering chili and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
3. Simmer Longer: Sometimes, simply letting the chili simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes will allow some of the liquid to evaporate, naturally thickening the White Chicken Chili.
White chicken chili offers a distinct take on the classic chili tradition, typically featuring tender chicken, white beans, and a creamy, often broth-based sauce, differing from its tomato-rich counterparts. This modern culinary creation has become a beloved comfort food, providing a milder yet equally satisfying flavor profile compared to traditional chili con carne.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious White Chicken Chili. Please note that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific brands, exact measurements, and any substitutions or additions you make to the recipe. This information does not include toppings.
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
White Chicken Chili
This creamy, hearty White Chicken Chili is a beloved staple, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. It offers a lighter, yet equally satisfying, flavor profile with tender chicken, savory beans, and a creamy broth that just melts in your mouth. It's incredibly easy to make, nourishing, versatile, and appeals to all ages.
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 tbsp Olive oil
1 large Yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
4 cups Cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
2 (15-oz) cans Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-oz) can Corn, drained
1 (4-oz) can Diced green chiles, undrained
4 cups Chicken broth, low sodium
1 tsp Cumi
1 tsp Dried oregano
0.5 tsp Chili powder
0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper
4 oz Cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
0.5 cup Sour cream
To taste Salt
To taste Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic bur
- Combine Ingredients (Excluding Dairy): Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed and drained Great Northern beans, drained corn, undrained diced green chiles, and chicken broth. Add the cumin, dried oregano, and optionally, chili powder and cayenne pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the delicious ingredients
- Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the White Chicken Chili simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This simmering time is crucial; it allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and deepen, creating that rich, complex taste we love in a homemade White Chicken Chili
- Create Creaminess: Once the chili has simmered, remove it from the heat. Carefully stir in the softened cream cheese cubes until they are completely melted and incorporated into the chili, making it wonderfully creamy. Next, stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt). This step truly transforms the texture, making your White Chicken Chili incredibly rich and smooth
- Season and Serve: Taste the White Chicken Chili and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Sometimes I add a little extra pinch of chili powder or cumin here if I feel it needs it. Ladle your warm, inviting White Chicken Chili into bowls and get ready to enjoy
Notes
For easier prep, use pre-cooked shredded chicken (like rotisserie). If using raw chicken, cube and sauté it until browned and cooked through before adding other ingredients. Do not rush the 20-30 minute simmering period for optimal flavor development.
Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature and cut into smaller cubes to prevent lumps and ensure smooth melting. Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and other spices before serving; a squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the whole dish.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile: easily adjust spice levels, swap proteins (e.g., leftover turkey, extra beans for a vegetarian option), use different white beans (cannellini, chickpeas), or add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. It also freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
Embrace garnishes for added texture and fresh flavor: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of extra sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, and crispy tortilla strips are all fantastic additions. If the chili is too thin, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or blend a cup of the chili and stir back in.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
