Creamy White Chicken Chili

Creamy White Chicken Chili: A Flavorful & Comforting Dish

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken, creamy broth, and a medley of spices come together to create a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you just need a little culinary comfort. Its versatility allows for easy customization, ensuring it appeals to a wide range of palates.

Ingredients List

Gathering these ingredients will set you on the path to chili perfection. We’ve also included some notes and substitution ideas to make this recipe work for you!

Protein and Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: The foundation for sautéing your aromatics. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs offer a richer, more succulent flavor and are more forgiving if overcooked. Breasts are leaner. Dice into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and pungent base. Red onion can be used for a slightly sharper flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatically essential. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The savory liquid that brings everything together. Using low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness better. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist (if omitting chicken).

Aromatics and Vegetables

• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: These creamy white beans are the star, adding texture and a subtle nutty flavor. Great Northern beans or other white beans also work.
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced green chilies (mild or hot): Adds a gentle warmth and characteristic chili flavor. Hatch chilies, if available, are particularly delicious.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro: For brightness and a fresh, herbaceous note. If you dislike cilantro, parsley is a milder alternative.

Spices and Flavorings

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Earthy and warm, a classic chili spice.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herbal, slightly peppery note.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: For a hint of heat and depth. Adjust to your spice preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra kick.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

Creamy Elements

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is the magic ingredient that makes the chili incredibly creamy and luxurious.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds further richness and smooth texture. For a lighter option, see Healthier Alternatives.

Optional Garnishes

• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Tortilla chips

Timing for the Perfect Chili

Compared to many chili recipes that require hours of simmering, this Creamy White Chicken Chili is wonderfully quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners without sacrificing depth of flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld, but 30 minutes is sufficient for a delicious result.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This gentle cooking process sweetens the onion and builds a crucial flavor base for your chili.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Add your diced chicken pieces to the pot. Cook, stirring, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking it through completely at this stage. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat and release their aromatic oils.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – these are packed with flavor! Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and the diced green chilies. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to begin melding. The beans will soften and release some of their starch, contributing to the chili’s thickness.

Step 4: Add Creamy Elements

In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and heavy cream (or half-and-half) until smooth. Gradually whisk this creamy mixture into the simmering chili. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the chili becomes wonderfully smooth and creamy. Continue to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened to your desired consistency. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously after adding the dairy to prevent separation.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving

Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro. Taste the chili and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve hot, ladled into bowls. Offer a variety of your favorite garnishes at the table, allowing everyone to customize their bowl. Delicious additions include shredded Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional overview. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
• Calories: ~400-500 kcal
• Protein: ~30-35g
• Fat: ~20-25g
• Carbohydrates: ~25-30g
• Fiber: ~5-7g
• Sodium: Varies based on broth and added salt.

Healthier Alternatives

Want to lighten this dish up without sacrificing flavor? Try these swaps:

• For Creaminess: Use a blend of pureed white beans (reserve some cannellini beans and blend them with a little broth) or a lighter coconut milk instead of cream cheese and heavy cream. Silken tofu, blended until smooth, is another option.
• For Chicken: Opt for lean chicken breast. For a vegetarian or vegan version, use extra beans, plant-based chicken alternatives, or firm tofu.
• For Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth.
• For Dairy: Use evaporated milk (lower fat than heavy cream) or a plant-based milk with a touch of cornstarch to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is fantastic on its own, but here are some ideas to take it over the top:

• Classic Toppings: Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack), sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or tortilla chips for dipping.
• As a Bowl: Serve over rice, quinoa, or even baked potatoes for a hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Sautéing Aromatics Properly: Skipping the step of softening the onions and garlic can lead to a raw, harsh flavor.
• Boiling After Adding Dairy: High heat can cause the cream cheese or cream to separate, leading to a greasy texture. Simmer gently.
• Under-seasoning: Chili needs adequate salt and pepper to bring out the best in its flavors. Taste and adjust before serving.
• Overcrowding the Pot: If your pot is too full, the ingredients won’t cook evenly. Use a pot large enough to accommodate everything comfortably.

Storing Your Delicious Chili

This chili stores beautifully and often tastes even better the next day!

• Refrigeration: Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash more broth or cream if it has thickened too much.

Enjoy Your Creamy White Chicken Chili!

There you have it – a simple yet incredibly rewarding Creamy White Chicken Chili that’s packed with flavor and comforting goodness. It’s a fantastic dish that proves healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying. Gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this culinary gem. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Creamy White Chicken Chili

• Author: Chef Mia

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken, creamy broth, and a medley of spices come together to create a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2(15 oz) cans white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern)
• 3 cupschicken broth
• 1(4 oz) can diced green chiles
• 1 cupfrozen or canned corn
• 1medium onion, diced
• 3cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ozcream cheese
• 1 tspcumin
• 1 tspchili powder
• 1/2 tspsmoked paprika
• 1/2 tspdried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, tortilla chips

---

Instructions

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the white beans, corn, and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the chili becomes creamy.
5. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and your choice of toppings.

---