Description
A spicy, creamy twist on traditional chili, Cajun White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, white beans, and bold Cajun spices for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty chili is customizable and easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), for topping (optional)
Instructions
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Sauté the aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Cook the chicken – Add the diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
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Build the chili base – Stir in diced green chilies, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.
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Add the creamy elements – Stir in corn, heavy cream, and softened cream cheese. Cook on low, stirring occasionally, until cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated (about 5 minutes).
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Finish with lime juice – Stir in lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning.
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Serve and garnish – Ladle chili into bowls and garnish with cilantro and shredded cheese, if desired. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Spicier: Add more Cajun seasoning or extra cayenne pepper.
- Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream and cream cheese.
- Different protein: Substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or shrimp.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with extra beans or tofu, and use vegetable broth.
- Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients except cream cheese, cream, and lime juice in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in the dairy and lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: chilli
- Method: Stovetop (Slow Cooker & Instant Pot options)
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Cajun chicken chili, white chicken chili, spicy chili recipe, creamy Cajun chili, easy chili recipe