White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili

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White Chicken Chili is a creamy, hearty alternative to traditional red chili. Packed with tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and warming spices, it delivers bold flavor without being overly spicy. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or cold-weather comfort food.

What Is White Chicken Chili?

White Chicken Chili is a creamy soup-style chili made with white beans, chicken, green chiles, and spices like cumin and oregano. It’s typically lighter in color compared to beef chili, but still rich and satisfying. Instead of tomato-based broth, it often uses chicken broth and cream or cream cheese for a velvety texture.

White Chicken Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Comes together in under an hour

  • Versatile: Use canned or fresh ingredients

  • Comforting: Creamy texture and hearty protein

  • Kid-friendly: Mild flavor that’s easy to customize

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic White Chicken Chili:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern)

  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild or hot, as preferred)

  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

  • 1/2 cup frozen or canned corn (optional)

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

  • Juice of 1 lime (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large Dutch oven or soup pot

  • Sharp knife and cutting board

  • Wooden spoon

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Can opener (if using canned goods)

Timing & Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken with spices.

Step 3: Add Beans and Chiles

Add drained white beans and green chiles. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream. Let it melt and mix until the chili is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

White Chicken Chili

Variations to Try

  • Spicy White Chili: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with extra beans and use vegetable broth.

  • Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients (except cream) and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in cream at the end.

  • Instant Pot: Use sauté mode, then pressure cook for 10 minutes. Stir in cream afterward.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Freshly Cooked Chicken

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cook and shred before adding to the chili.

Rotisserie Chicken

For convenience, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and cuts down prep time.

Leftover Chicken

This is a perfect way to use up leftover roasted or grilled chicken.

Types of Beans for White Chicken Chili

White beans are essential in this recipe for creaminess and texture.

  • Cannellini beans: Soft and buttery

  • Great northern beans: Slightly firmer texture

  • Navy beans: Smaller and creamier

Use canned beans for convenience, or cook dried beans in advance.

Fresh or Canned Green Chiles?

Both work well, but here’s how they compare:

  • Canned green chiles: Easy to use, available mild or hot

  • Fresh roasted chiles: Adds deep flavor but requires more prep

Creamy vs. Brothy White Chili

Creamy Version

Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream at the end to thicken the chili and add richness.

Brothy Version

Skip the cream and use extra broth for a lighter, soup-like texture.

How to Thicken White Chicken Chili

  • Mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher.

  • Add cream cheese or sour cream at the end.

  • Simmer uncovered to reduce the broth.

Best Toppings for Serving

  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

  • Crushed tortilla chips

  • Diced avocado

  • Fresh cilantro

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Lime wedges

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.

Freezing Instructions and Make-Ahead Tips

  • White Chicken Chili freezes well for up to 3 months.

  • Freeze without dairy to prevent separation. Add cream or cheese after reheating.

  • To make ahead, prep ingredients and store separately until ready to cook.

Spices and Seasoning Tips

  • Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness

  • Oregano: Balances the richness of the beans and chicken

  • Coriander (optional): Adds citrusy notes

  • Chili powder or cayenne: For a little heat

  • Salt and pepper: Always adjust to taste

Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor

  • Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

  • Diced bell peppers

  • Jalapeños

  • Fresh lime juice

  • Chopped cilantro

What to Serve with White Chicken Chili

  • Cornbread or tortilla chips

  • Side salad

  • Baked potatoes

  • Rice or quinoa

  • Garlic bread

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350–400

  • Protein: 25–30g

  • Carbohydrates: 20–25g

  • Fat: 15–20g

  • Fiber: 6–8g

  • Sodium: 500–700mg (depending on broth and cheese)

Conclusion

White Chicken Chili is a delicious, soul-warming dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you stick with the classic version or explore one of the many variations, this chili is a winner for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Creamy, satisfying, and customizable—it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.