If you’re craving something cozy, filled with layers of flavor, and just the right amount of creamy comfort, this White Chicken Chili Recipe is going to steal your heart. Unlike traditional tomato-based chili, this delightful twist brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and a warming blend of spices that create a rich, velvety bowl of goodness perfect for any day of the year. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, sharing its satisfying taste with loved ones around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in building the texture, flavor, and rich color you want in this White Chicken Chili Recipe. From the aromatic spices to the creamy finish, every component works harmoniously to create something truly special.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle, fruity richness.
- Medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base that mellows as it cooks.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a punch of fragrant flavor that wakes up the dish.
- Ground cumin: Brings warm earthiness and depth to the chili.
- Chili powder: Adds a gentle kick and classic chili warmth.
- Dried oregano: Introduces a hint of herbal brightness that balances the spices.
- Ground cayenne pepper: Offers a touch of heat without overwhelming the flavors.
- Cooked and shredded chicken: The hearty protein that makes the chili satisfyingly filling.
- White beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and bulk to the chili.
- Diced green chilies: Infuse mild heat and a subtle tang.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps everything moist and infused.
- Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess for a smooth finish.
- Sour cream: Enhances richness and a slight tang for balance.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for extra indulgence and gooey texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation that makes all the difference.
Step 2: Add garlic and spices
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper, letting the spices bloom for about 30 seconds. This releases their aromas and deepens the chili’s flavor.
Step 3: Combine chicken and beans
Mix in the shredded chicken until evenly coated with the spices, then add the drained white beans along with the diced green chilies. Stir gently to combine all the delicious bits.
Step 4: Add chicken broth and simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together. Bring the whole pot to a simmer before lowering the heat and letting it cook gently for 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to marry beautifully.
Step 5: Creamy finish
Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream, blending them smoothly into the chili. Then cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the texture velvety and luscious.
Step 6: Melt in the cheese and season
Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the pot and stir until melted completely, creating a creamy, cheesy swirl. Taste your chili and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Final simmer and rest
Let the chili simmer for another 5 minutes to meld all the flavors thoroughly. Then remove it from the heat and allow it to rest a few minutes before serving — this little pause makes the dish even better!
How to Serve White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowl, consider topping with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of extra Monterey Jack cheese. Crunchy tortilla chips or a squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and texture.
Side Dishes
Serve this White Chicken Chili Recipe alongside warm corn bread, a crisp green salad, or even a simple rice pilaf. These accompaniments soak up the chili’s creamy sauce and add delightful contrasts to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your chili in small hollowed-out bread bowls or as a topping over baked potatoes. You can also use it as a hearty filling for tacos or burritos to mix things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and fresh flavors, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this White Chicken Chili Recipe freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months, ready to thaw when you need a comforting meal in a flash.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth and prevent curdling. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
While fresh cooked chicken gives the best texture and flavor, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and adjust seasoning to compensate for any saltiness in the can.
Is this chili spicy?
The White Chicken Chili Recipe has a gentle warmth thanks to chili powder and cayenne pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the level of heat by using more or less cayenne or skipping it altogether.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream and sour cream with coconut milk or your favorite dairy-free alternatives. For the cheese, try a dairy-free shredded cheese to keep it creamy and satisfying.
What type of white beans work best?
Great northern beans or cannellini beans are ideal for this chili. They hold their shape well and provide that creamy texture without overpowering the other ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to this chili?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, corn, or even chopped spinach can be great additions to increase the veggie content. Just add them while sautéing the onions or stir them in before the simmering step.
Final Thoughts
This White Chicken Chili Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal any time of year. With its creamy texture, juicy chicken, and perfectly balanced spices, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes when you crave a comforting dish. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be so happy you did!
Print
White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 1h 0m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy, comforting White Chicken Chili combines tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a blend of fragrant spices, simmered in a rich broth with cream and cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant to enhance the aroma.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper into the pot. Stir and let the spices cook for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Add Chicken: Incorporate the shredded chicken into the pot, stirring well to coat with the spiced onion mixture.
- Add Beans and Chilies: Pour in the drained white beans and diced green chilies, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
- Add Creams: Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until fully blended, adding richness to the chili.
- Cook Further: Let the chili cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to maintain an even texture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and stir until melted and the chili is smooth.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
- Final Simmer: Continue to simmer the chili for 5 more minutes to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal taste and consistency.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream and heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
- Serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread for a complete meal.
