White Chicken Chili – Creamy, Cozy, and Full of Flavor

White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for anyone who loves the comforting richness of traditional chili but wants something a little lighter and creamier. Unlike classic red chili, this version uses white beans, tender chicken, and a delicate blend of spices to create a hearty, flavorful soup that’s ideal for chilly evenings, casual family dinners, or meal prep for the week. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and bursting with flavor from cumin, chili powder, oregano, and a hint of heat from green chilies. The addition of heavy cream or half-and-half gives it a velvety smooth texture that transforms a simple soup into a comforting and satisfying meal.

This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adjust spice levels, use leftover cooked chicken, or even substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience. White Chicken Chili is also visually appealing, with creamy white broth, tender pieces of chicken, and bright green flecks of cilantro as a garnish. Lime wedges served on the side add a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the chili beautifully. Below, you’ll find the full list of ingredients, followed by a detailed, step-by-step preparation method to make this chili a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Preparation Method

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 2

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3

Add the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.

Step 4

Add the drained white beans and diced green chilies. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together.

Step 5

Season the mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 6

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, ensuring it blends smoothly with the broth. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes, but avoid boiling once the cream is added to prevent curdling.

Step 8

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if desired.

Step 9

Remove the pot from heat and let the chili sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to settle.

Step 10

Serve the White Chicken Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges. The lime juice adds a refreshing brightness that complements the creamy, savory flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, White Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Yes, but leave out the cream when freezing. Freeze the chili base and add cream when reheating to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor to the chili.

4. How spicy is this chili?
This recipe is mild to moderate in heat, but you can increase the spiciness by adding more green chilies, a dash of cayenne pepper, or jalapeños.

5. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients except cream in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add the cream in the last 15–20 minutes of cooking.

6. Can I make this chili dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or a non-dairy half-and-half for a dairy-free version.

7. What toppings pair well with this chili?
Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, or avocado slices work beautifully in addition to cilantro and lime wedges.

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Conclusion

White Chicken Chili is a comforting, protein-packed meal that is both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Its creamy texture, gentle heat, and wholesome ingredients make it a perfect choice for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights at home. This recipe also provides flexibility—you can adjust the creaminess, spice level, and protein source according to your preference, ensuring it becomes a versatile go-to recipe in your kitchen.