Delicious Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Creamy white chicken chili has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially when the weather turns cool. I still remember the first time I made it from scratch; the aroma of garlic and spices filling my kitchen felt like a warm hug. This dish is incredibly satisfying with its tender chicken, hearty white beans, and a luscious, creamy broth. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for a bowl. If you’re looking for a truly delicious and satisfying meal, this creamy white chicken chili recipe is perfect, and it’s surprisingly an easy creamy white chicken chili to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Chicken Chili

This isn’t just any chili; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that you’ll make again and again. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• It’s incredibly flavorful, packed with tender chicken and savory spices.
• The creamy texture is absolutely divine, making it a truly satisfying meal.
• This white chicken chili with cream cheese adds a luxurious richness that’s simply irresistible.
• It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights because it’s a quick creamy white chicken chili you can make in about an hour.
• It’s versatile and easily customizable to your taste preferences.
• The combination of white beans and chicken makes it wonderfully hearty and filling.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.

Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Gathering the right white chicken chili ingredients is key to this hearty dish. This recipe focuses on building layers of flavor and texture for an unforgettable meal. The foundation of our chicken chili white bean recipe includes:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the lean protein base
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing aromatics
• 1 medium onion, diced – provides a sweet, savory base
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for depth of flavor
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies – adds a mild, roasted pepper note
• 3 cups chicken broth – the liquid base for simmering
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed – like cannellini or Great Northern, for creaminess and fiber
• 1 cup corn – adds a touch of sweetness and texture
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – earthy and warm spice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – for a classic chili flavor
• 1 teaspoon paprika – adds color and mild sweetness
• Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that signature luxurious creaminess
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – melts beautifully for added richness
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sliced jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili

Ready to create the best bowl of comfort? This guide will walk you through every simple step. Making this creamy white chicken chili is easier than you think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. While this recipe is designed for the stovetop, many of these steps translate beautifully if you’re adapting it for a white chicken chili recipe slow cooker later on!

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook until they’re beautifully browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
2. Step 2: In the same pot, add the 1 medium onion, diced. Sauté until it turns nice and translucent, smelling sweet, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until you can really smell that wonderful garlic aroma.
3. Step 3: Stir in the 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies and pour in the 3 cups chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, letting the flavors start to meld together.
4. Step 4: Add the 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed, along with the 1 cup corn. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious components.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle in the spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the pot.
6. Step 6: Shred the cooked chicken breasts you set aside earlier. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for a good 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb all those amazing flavors.
7. Step 7: Uncover the pot and stir in the 1 cup heavy cream and the 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheese is completely melted and the chili is wonderfully creamy and smooth.
8. Step 8: Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or a pinch more chili powder.
9. Step 9: Ladle the hot, creamy chili into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños (if using for extra heat), and a squeeze of lime wedges.
10. Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy this amazing bowl of comfort! It’s perfect with tortilla chips or some crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy White Chicken Chili

Want to elevate your chili game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this creamy white chicken chili truly shine. Follow these tips for a restaurant-worthy bowl every time!

• Always shred the chicken after cooking. This gives you tender, flavorful pieces that are perfectly distributed throughout the chili, unlike large chunks.
• Don’t skip browning the chicken! That sear adds a depth of flavor that makes your chili so much richer.
• Taste and adjust seasonings at the end. Heavy cream and cheese can mellow out spices, so a final check ensures perfect balance.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy white chicken chili?

The real magic lies in the combination of shredded chicken, creamy elements like heavy cream and Monterey Jack cheese, and well-balanced spices. This approach ensures a rich, satisfying flavor profile that makes it the best white chicken chili recipe.

Can I make creamy white chicken chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. For more delicious recipes, check out our chicken meatballs lemon orzo.

How do I thicken my creamy white chicken chili?

If your chili seems too thin, don’t worry! The key to how to thicken white chicken chili is to simmer it uncovered for a bit longer, allowing some liquid to evaporate. You can also create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water and stir it in, simmering until thickened. You can learn more about thickening sauces and stews from Food Network.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili

This hearty chili is so versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion. For a truly comforting meal, I love serving it as a thick, satisfying stew. It’s absolutely delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

• Crusty Bread or Tortilla Chips: For dipping, you can’t go wrong with a warm baguette or sturdy tortilla chips. They’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious, creamy broth.
• Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili. Think a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving this chicken chili creamy soup over a bed of fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa makes it even more filling and satisfying, turning it into a complete meal. Consider trying our zucchini noodle chicken alfredo for another creamy chicken dish.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy White Chicken Chili

This creamy white chicken chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Knowing the breakdown helps in enjoying this satisfying meal. Here are the estimated values per serving:

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy White Chicken Chili

One of the best things about this creamy white chicken chili is how well it stores, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Storing it properly ensures you can enjoy this healthy creamy white chicken chili later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Once the chili has cooled down a bit (don’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours!), transfer it into airtight containers.

• Refrigeration: For immediate future enjoyment, store your chili in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for packing lunches or having a quick dinner ready to go.
• Freezing: If you want to store it for longer, this chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Make sure your containers are freezer-safe and leave a little headspace for expansion.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few easy options. On the stovetop, gently warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions until hot, stirring halfway through. For frozen chili, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For other chicken dishes, consider our jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy White Chicken Chili

What is white chicken chili?

White chicken chili is a delicious variation of traditional chili, swapping out the usual tomatoes and red beans for a creamy, broth-based soup featuring chicken and white beans. It’s typically seasoned with milder spices like cumin and cilantro, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that’s lighter than its red counterpart but just as satisfying.

Why is my chicken chili watery?

If your chili is too thin, it could be because you didn’t simmer it long enough to allow some liquid to evaporate, or you added too much broth initially. To fix this, you can uncover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for a bit longer, or use a thickening agent like a cornstarch slurry. Ensuring your beans and corn aren’t overly wet when added also helps maintain a good consistency. For more tips on cooking, you might find resources on Serious Eats helpful.

Can I make this creamy white chicken chili with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will add even more flavor and moisture to your chili. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and then shred them. The cooking time might be slightly longer than for breasts, but the result is incredibly tender and delicious. If you enjoy chicken dishes, you might also like our mediterranean chicken zucchini bake.

What can I serve with creamy white chicken chili?

This chili is fantastic served with a variety of accompaniments. Think warm, crusty bread for dipping, tortilla chips for scooping, or even a side of fluffy rice or quinoa. A simple green salad also provides a nice, refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.

Variations of Creamy White Chicken Chili You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love exploring different chicken chili variations to keep things exciting! Sometimes I crave a bit more heat, and other times I want to adapt it for different dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to play with:

• Spicy Kick: For a truly spicy creamy white chicken chili, add a finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions and garlic. You can also increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Slow Cooker Method: Adapt this for your slow cooker! Brown chicken, onions, and garlic on the stovetop first, then add everything except the cream and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream and cheese at the end.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Twist: Swap the chicken for extra beans or a plant-based chicken substitute. Use a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan cheese to make it entirely plant-based.
• Tex-Mex Flair: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.

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