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Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

4.9 from 22 reviews

This Creamy White Chicken Chili offers a comforting blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, and mild green chiles, balanced with subtle spices and a touch of heat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this chili is rich, flavorful, and easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, it delivers a satisfying twist on classic chili that’s creamy and hearty.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4.5 ounces) diced green chiles
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy & Garnishes

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-7 minutes, ensuring even cooking.
  3. Add Beans and Spices: Stir in the drained Great Northern beans, diced green chiles, chicken broth, ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Simmer to Meld Flavors: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld and the chili thickens slightly.
  5. Add Creaminess: Incorporate the softened cream cheese and sour cream into the pot. Stir continuously until both ingredients are completely melted and the chili reaches a creamy consistency.
  6. Adjust Thickness and Seasoning: Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a thicker texture, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon and stir thoroughly.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy white chicken chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños along with the green chiles.
  • You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation time.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or warm flour tortillas for a full meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy White Chicken Chili, White Chicken Chili, Chicken Chili, Creamy Chili, Winter Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Chili Recipe