Looking for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and a bit different from the classic red chili? White Chicken Chili offers a creamy and flavorful alternative, perfect for chilly nights or when you crave a satisfying meal with a subtle kick of spice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food with a twist! It’s rich, creamy, and packs just the right amount of spice to keep things exciting. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is not only quick and easy to make but also versatile and customizable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This delicious chili is made with just a few key ingredients:
- Shredded chicken for tenderness and flavor
- White beans for a hearty texture
- Green chilies adding a mild, smoky kick
- Cream cheese creating that rich, creamy base
For a full list of ingredients and measurements, check out the recipe card below!
How to Make White Chicken Chili
- Cook the Aromatics: Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in a large pot until fragrant.
- Add the Base: Stir in green chilies, spices, and chicken broth. Let it simmer gently to build the flavors.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, white beans, and corn. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to combine all the ingredients.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in cream cheese until smooth and creamy, then add heavy cream for extra richness.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Blending Tip: For a thicker chili, blend a portion of the beans before adding them.
- Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Beans: Use chickpeas or black beans for a unique twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with diced sweet potatoes or cauliflower, and use vegetable broth.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked ground turkey or sausage for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for an extra gooey texture.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
This White Chicken Chili pairs beautifully with:
- Warm cornbread
- Tortilla chips for a crunchy side
- Crusty baguette for dipping
- A side salad or avocado slices for a fresh contrast
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove, adding chicken broth if it thickens too much.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use canned chicken? Yes, canned chicken works as a quick alternative, though freshly cooked chicken offers the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make it spicier? Add more green chilies, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to suit your heat preference.
- Can I use a slow cooker? Definitely! Add all ingredients except cream cheese and heavy cream to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream before serving.
- What toppings go well with White Chicken Chili? Try shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal at home or sharing with friends. Try it today, and enjoy the comforting warmth in every spoonful!
Let me know if you’d like any further tweaks to this version!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Base: Stir in green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Combine well.
- Pour in Broth: Add chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine the Ingredients: Stir in shredded chicken, white beans, and frozen corn (if using). Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful White