White Chicken Chili

Posted by by Sara 4 months Ago 66 Views

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and protein-packed meal that’s different from traditional chili, then White Chicken Chili is the perfect recipe! Unlike classic red chili, this dish is made with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, mild green chilies, and a rich, spiced broth that delivers warmth in every bite.

This chili is perfect for chilly nights, meal prepping, or serving at family gatherings. It’s rich yet light, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to make in one pot or a slow cooker. Plus, it’s healthy, packed with lean protein, fiber, and antioxidants!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Chili:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – 600g
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Yellow onion, chopped – 1 large
  • Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
  • Chicken broth – 1 liter (4 cups)
  • Canned white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed – 2 cans (800g total)
  • Canned diced green chilies – 1 can (100g)
  • Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – 150g (1 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened – 100g (½ cup)
  • Heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version) – 120ml (½ cup)
  • Lime juice – 1 tablespoon
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped – 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Seasonings & Spices:

  • Ground cumin – 2 teaspoons
  • Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
  • Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Ground coriander – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt & black pepper – To taste
  • Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat) – ¼ teaspoon

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Avocado slices
  • Tortilla chips or strips

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Cook the Chicken & Spices

  1. Add chicken breasts to the pot along with chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

3. Shred the Chicken & Add the Beans

  1. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add white beans and corn.
  3. Simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Make It Creamy

  1. Stir in cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and lime juice, stirring to combine.

5. Serve & Garnish

  1. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Sodium: 800mg

(Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used.)

Tips & Tricks for the Best White Chicken Chili

✔ Use Rotisserie Chicken for an Easy Shortcut – Skip the cooking and shredding by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken!

✔ Make It in the Slow Cooker – Add everything except the cream cheese and cream to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the creamy ingredients before serving.

✔ Thicken the Chili Naturally – Mash half a cup of the beans before adding them to the chili to make it even creamier.

✔ Spice It Up – Add extra jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a bolder kick.

✔ Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cream – A lighter alternative that keeps it creamy!

✔ Make It Dairy-Free – Swap the cream cheese and heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

🍞 With Cornbread – The sweetness of cornbread complements the chili’s spice.
🥑 With Guacamole & Avocado – A creamy, fresh contrast to the chili’s richness.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A light, crisp salad balances the warmth of the chili.
🌮 With Warm Tortillas – Soft tortillas are great for dipping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Creamy & Comforting – A cozy meal perfect for cold days.
✅ Packed with Protein & Fiber – Filling and nutritious.
✅ One-Pot & Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, quick prep!
✅ Customizable – Adjust the spice, thickness, or toppings to your liking.