White Chicken Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Made with tender chicken, white beans, and a creamy broth, this chili is a lighter alternative to traditional chili while still packing a punch of flavor. The combination of spices, creamy texture, and the slight heat from green chilies makes it a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • White beans (cannellini or great northern)
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Green chilies (canned or fresh)
  • Chicken broth
  • Ground cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Oregano
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Sour cream (for creaminess)
  • Shredded cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
  5. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  6. Stir in the white beans and sour cream. Let the chili simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people.

  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

  • Add corn for a touch of sweetness.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or use spicy green chilies.
  • Make it vegan by substituting the chicken with plant-based protein and using vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

White Chicken Chili

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be used as a quick alternative, but fresh chicken will provide better flavor.

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to turn up the heat.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply combine all ingredients (except sour cream) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the sour cream at the end.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly to the pot. Just be sure to cook it for a bit longer until fully thawed and shredded.

What type of beans work best?
Cannellini beans or great northern beans are ideal for white chicken chili due to their mild flavor and creamy texture.

Conclusion

White Chicken Chili is a warming and delicious dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture, tender chicken, and flavorful spices make it a standout in the world of chili recipes. Whether served with toppings or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to become a go-to comfort food

Print
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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A comforting and hearty white chicken chili made with tender chicken, beans, and a creamy broth, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack or cheddar), optional
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the green chilies, white beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and white pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. If desired, stir in shredded cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add jalapeños or extra chili powder.
  • Feel free to use a slow cooker for this recipe – cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the cream and cheese before serving.
  • This chili can be frozen for up to 3 months – just omit the cream and cheese until reheating.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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