White Chicken Chili Recipe

White Chicken Chili is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. Unlike traditional red chili, this dish is lighter, creamier, and features tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a blend of savory spices. It strikes a balance between comfort food and a refreshing twist on classic chili recipes.

This recipe is appealing because it’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and has just the right amount of spice. It’s a go-to dish for anyone who loves bold flavors but prefers a milder, creamy base.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese or heavy cream gives the chili a luxurious consistency.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under an hour.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Tortilla chips

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the pot and season with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to coat the chicken evenly with spices. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

3. Build the Flavor

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced green chilies. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add the Beans and Corn

Stir in the white beans and corn. Let the chili simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through. If using raw chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

5. Create the Creamy Base

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the chili. Then add the heavy cream or half-and-half, mixing until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

6. Finish with Lime Juice

Stir in fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Let the chili sit for a few minutes before serving.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, or sour cream. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.

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Possible Variations

1. Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version. Add it in step 4.
2. Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.
3. Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with diced sweet potatoes, tofu, or more beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Spicier Chili: Add more cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce.
5. Thicker Chili: Mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot to create a thicker consistency.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the chili in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except for the cream cheese, heavy cream, and lime juice to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and lime juice in the last 30 minutes.

2. What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Cooked chicken can be shredded easily with two forks or using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

3. Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely. Navy beans or chickpeas work well as substitutes for white beans.

4. How do I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit cayenne pepper and green chilies for a milder version. For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

5. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience. Be sure to drain and rinse it before adding to the chili.

6. Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the chicken broth and canned goods used are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, white chicken chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat before serving.

8. What kind of cheese pairs best with this chili?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack are excellent choices for topping.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrients.

10. How do I thicken the chili?

Mash some of the beans or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the chili to your desired consistency.

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Conclusion

White Chicken Chili is the perfect blend of creamy and savory with just a hint of spice. It’s a comforting meal that’s versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or meal-prepping for the week, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the bold flavors and creamy goodness!

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