There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty bowl of white chicken chili, with its creamy texture and zesty flavor that dances on your tongue. Picture this: You’re cozied up on the couch, a chilly breeze rustling the leaves outside, and the aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen, beckoning you to dive into a comforting bowl of goodness. Sweet potato chili recipe This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or when life throws a curveball.
Now, let me take you back to that one unforgettable potluck when I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe. I was armed with my famous (or infamous) three-bean chili, but lo and behold, I tasted this creamy concoction that turned my world upside down. “Why didn’t I think of making chili white?” I grumbled to myself while secretly plotting how to steal the recipe. Spoiler alert: I did! Get ready for an incredible flavor experience that will have your friends begging for your secret.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This white chicken chili is a breeze to make, even for those culinary novices among us.
- The rich flavors combine perfectly for a satisfying meal that’s visually appealing and makes for great leftovers.
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it wonderfully versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients for white chicken chili
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- White Beans: Canned or dried, these add creaminess and texture; choose great northern or cannellini beans for best results.
- Green Chilies: Use canned diced green chilies for spice and flavor without overwhelming heat.
- Onion: A medium-sized yellow onion adds sweetness and depth; make sure to chop it finely so it blends well into the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch; use about three cloves for optimal flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth works best to control salt levels; approximately four cups will suffice.
For the Sauce:
- Cream Cheese: This silky ingredient adds richness; use full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess.
- Cumin: Ground cumin provides an earthy flavor that elevates the dish; about two teaspoons should do.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make white chicken chili
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cooking your boneless chicken breasts. You can poach them in boiling water or sauté them in a skillet until fully cooked. Shred them once they’re cool enough to handle.
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they’re translucent—about five minutes should do. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Add shredded chicken, drained white beans, green chilies, cumin, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Embrace the Creaminess
Now’s when things get dreamy! Stir in softened cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated into your mixture. This step is crucial for that thick texture we all crave.
Step 5: Simmer Away
Let your concoction simmer on low heat for about twenty minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your white chicken chili into bowls and garnish with toppings like cilantro or avocado if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips on the side for that extra crunch! For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
This easy-to-make white chicken chili is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every creamy spoonful as you reminisce about cozy nights spent together around the dinner table! Turkey pumpkin chili.
You Must Know
- This white chicken chili offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for chilly nights but versatile enough for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, sear the chicken until golden brown before adding your spices and broth. Finally, let everything simmer while you prepare your toppings for that perfect finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beans or add corn for sweetness. You can even adjust the spice level with jalapeños or chipotle peppers, or throw in some cream cheese for extra creaminess. Personalize this dish to make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; dried herbs just don’t pack the same punch.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Lastly, let your chili sit for a few minutes off heat before serving; flavors meld beautifully!
Sometimes when I whip up this white chicken chili, my friends declare it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I mean, who wouldn’t want their dish compared to one of life’s greatest inventions? It warms not just bellies but hearts too!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for white chicken chili?
To make a delicious white chicken chili, you’ll need several key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken, which can be shredded or cubed. You’ll also need white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, for a creamy texture. Don’t forget to include onion, garlic, and green chilies for flavor. Chicken broth serves as the base of the chili, while spices like cumin and oregano enhance the taste. Finally, finish it off with toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, and cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
How long does it take to cook white chicken chili?
Cooking white chicken chili is relatively quick and easy. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, the process takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour in total. First, sauté your vegetables until they’re soft. Then, add the remaining ingredients and let them simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. If you opt for raw chicken, it may take longer—around 1 to 1.5 hours—to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Can I freeze leftover white chicken chili?
Yes, you can freeze leftover white chicken chili! It’s a great way to preserve any extra portions for later enjoyment. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
What side dishes go well with white chicken chili?
White chicken chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Cornbread is a classic choice; its sweetness balances out the spiciness of the chili. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. You can also serve tortilla chips on the side for crunch or even top your bowl of chili with avocado slices and lime wedges for added zest. For more inspiration, check out this spicy chorizo sweet potato chili recipe.
Conclusion for white chicken chili :
In summary, white chicken chili is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy beans and spices. Its preparation is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. Chorizo white bean soup The ability to customize this dish with various toppings enhances its appeal further. Whether you enjoy it fresh or freeze leftovers for another day, this comforting recipe never disappoints!
White Chicken Chili
White chicken chili is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, white beans, and zesty spices for a delightful flavor experience. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Each spoonful promises warmth and satisfaction, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern beans, drained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Cook the chicken by poaching or sautéing until fully cooked; shred once cooled.
- Sauté onions in a large pot over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in shredded chicken, drained beans, green chilies, cumin, and chicken broth until combined.
- Add cream cheese to the pot and stir until melted and well mixed.
- Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro or avocado.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg






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