White Chicken Chili

A rich and creamy chili made with tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and warm spices. Cozy comfort food with a Southwestern kick!

 Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

• Total Time: 45–55 minutes

• Difficulty:  (Easy)

• Servings: 6

• Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

• Course: Main Dish, Soup, Dinner

 What Is White Chicken Chili?

Unlike traditional chili made with tomatoes, red beans, and beef, White Chicken Chili is a creamy, savory soup featuring:

• Shredded chicken

• White beans (like cannellini or great northern)

• Green chiles

• Creamy broth with southwest seasonings

• Often finished with cream cheese or sour cream for richness

It’s milder and creamier than red chili, but can be easily made spicy. It’s a perfect one-pot comfort dish!

 Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp oregano

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Liquids & Beans:

• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

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

• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)

Creamy Finish:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream

• 1 cup Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, shredded (optional)

 Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven

• Cutting board + sharp knife

• Stirring spoon

• Measuring cups/spoons

• Ladle for serving

 Instructions

 Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Time: 5–7 minutes

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion, jalapeños (if using), and a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

 Step 2: Add Spices

1. Add cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their aroma.

 Step 3: Add Beans, Chicken, Broth & Chiles

1. Add the white beans, green chiles, shredded chicken, and chicken broth to the pot.

2. Stir to combine.

 Step 4: Simmer

Time: 20–25 minutes

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

2. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

 This allows flavors to blend and the broth to slightly reduce and concentrate.

 Step 5: Make It Creamy

1. Lower heat and stir in the cream cheese. Stir constantly until fully melted and incorporated.

2. Add sour cream (or heavy cream) and shredded cheese (if using). Stir until smooth.

 Don’t let it boil after adding dairy — it can curdle. Keep heat low and stir gently.

 Step 6: Taste and Adjust

• Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning:

  • Add more salt, pepper, or spice as needed

  • For more heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce

 Serving Suggestions

Serve your White Chicken Chili hot with toppings like:

• Fresh cilantro

• Sliced avocado or lime wedges

• Shredded cheese

• Crushed tortilla chips

• Cornbread or warm flour tortillas on the side

Perfect for game day, weeknight dinner, or when you need a big bowl of comfort.

 Storage & Reheating

Add a splash of broth or water if chili thickens during storage.

 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

Varies depending on toppings and cheese used.