White Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that combines the comforting essence of chili with tender chicken, creamy beans, and zesty spices. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s not just delicious—it’s also quite simple to prepare at home!
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to make White Chicken Chili. First and foremost, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Everyone enjoys the flavors, and with its creamy texture, it’s both indulgent and hearty. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily modify it to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. It’s also a wonderful recipe for meal prep since it stores and freezes well. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or want a comforting meal to enjoy with your family, White Chicken Chili is a fantastic choice.
How to Make White Chicken Chili
Creating this delicious White Chicken Chili is straightforward and requires only a few steps. With the right ingredients and some simple techniques, you’ll have a warm pot of chili simmering in no time. Here’s everything you need to know!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Juice from ½ small lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
- 2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken)
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded cheese
- Tortilla chips
- Green onions
- Avocado
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large (5-6 quart) pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes softened, around 3-5 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing its fragrance to infuse the oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced green chilies, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and lime juice. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Drain and rinse the great northern beans in a strainer.
- For a creamier texture, measure out a large ladleful of the rinsed beans and combine them with a splash of broth in a food processor. Blend until smooth. This step is optional but highly recommended for a thick, creamy chili.
- Add the pureed beans back into the soup pot along with the remaining whole beans and corn. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream and shredded chicken until well combined.
- Serve the chili garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, slices of avocado, and tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Pro Tips for Success with White Chicken Chili
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders in this recipe. It saves prep time and adds flavor.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. You can omit it entirely for a milder version.
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Blend Your Beans: If you prefer a thicker consistency, blending part of your beans adds a creamy texture. But if you like chunkier chili, feel free to skip this step.
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Fresh Ingredients: When possible, use fresh corn or quality canned corn. It enhances the overall taste.
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Herb Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions make for a refreshing garnish that brightens up the dish.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your chili during the cooking process and adjust your seasonings. Everyone’s palate is different, and seasoning can make a significant impact.
Flavor Variations for White Chicken Chili
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Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or use spicy green chilies to crank up the heat in your chili.
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Creamy Variations: Swap out sour cream for cream cheese for an even richer and creamier chili.
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Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and replace it with extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
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Different Beans: Try using black beans or pinto beans instead of great northern beans for a different flavor profile.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to add a smoky depth to your chili.
Serving Suggestions for White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various sides. Here are a few suggestions to make your meal even more delightful:
- Serve it alongside warm cornbread or fresh baked bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- A simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili.
- Pair this dish with tortilla chips for scooping, adding a fun twist to your meal.
- Consider offering toppings like sliced jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and fresh avocado to let everyone customize their bowl.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for White Chicken Chili
Storing your leftover White Chicken Chili is a breeze. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
If you wish to freeze your chili, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the chili again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop. Just be cautious not to boil it, as that can change the texture of the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|—————|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 34 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
FAQ About White Chicken Chili
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken to make White Chicken Chili. The best method is to cook the frozen chicken directly in the broth for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Shred it and add it to the chili once it’s tender.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer not to use chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute! It will still give you a rich flavor, making the chili deliciously hearty without the meat-based broth.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more spice to your chili, consider incorporating diced fresh jalapeños or using a spicy variety of green chiles. Additionally, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce according to your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients used in White Chicken Chili, including the spices and beans, are gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth and any other store-bought ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this chili in a slow cooker, simply sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer the mixture along with the remaining ingredients into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the sour cream and chicken towards the end.
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Chili is not only a comforting meal but also a delight to share with family and friends. Its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and hearty profile make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on a cozy night in or serve it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be met with cheers and satisfied smiles. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this delectable chili today!
Print
White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting and hearty dish that combines chicken, creamy beans, and zesty spices, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Juice from ½ small lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
- 2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken)
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded cheese
- Tortilla chips
- Green onions
- Avocado
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced green chilies, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain and rinse the great northern beans. For a creamier texture, blend a large ladleful of beans with a splash of broth until smooth, then add back to the pot.
- Add remaining whole beans and corn to the pot, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 15-30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and shredded chicken until combined.
- Serve garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, slices of avocado, and tortilla chips.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. Adjust cayenne for your spice preference and blend beans for a creamier texture if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American