White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili recipe is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. This chili is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings together simple ingredients like chicken, green chilies, and cream cheese for a delightful meal. Whether you’re serving it on game day or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Creamy Flavor: The addition of cream cheese creates a rich and velvety broth that elevates the traditional chili experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite toppings like avocado, lime wedges, or cheese to suit your taste.
• Feeding a Crowd: With 12 servings, this recipe is perfect for parties or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this chili is a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious White Chicken Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot (4 1/2-quart)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the chili evenly without overcrowding ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely, keeping prep time minimal.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon each: ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon each: black pepper, cayenne pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 large jalapeno pepper (seeded and diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth

For Creaminess

• 1/3 cup half and half (half milk, half cream)
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)

For Protein & Vegetables

• 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (drained)
• 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast (see notes)
• 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn (drained; can sub frozen corn.)

Seasoning & Flavor Boosters

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies (undrained)

For Garnish

• Lime wedges
• Diced Avocado
• Sour cream
• Tortilla Strips
• Fritos
• Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese

this recipe

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings

Combine all the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and toss to coat the vegetables. Cook for about 2 minutes until there’s no raw flour smell.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Gradually add in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the half-and-half in small splashes as well.

Step 5: Blend Beans for Thickness (Optional)

If desired, reserve one heaping cup of drained beans. Blend it with ½ cup of broth using a food processor or immersion blender until smooth. Add this mixture back to the soup along with remaining whole beans.

Step 6: Season & Boil

Add all seasonings along with hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Chicken & Corn

Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them along with sweet corn into the pot. Let simmer gently uncovered for another 15-20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Shred Chicken

Once cooked through, remove chicken from pot. Shred it using two forks before returning it back to the pot.

Step 9: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low before stirring in softened cream cheese until completely melted into the chili.

Step 10: Final Adjustments

Taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed before serving it up hot with cornbread!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

Serving White Chicken Chili is an enjoyable experience that allows you to get creative. This creamy dish can be garnished and paired with various toppings that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Diced Avocado – Fresh avocado adds a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the chili.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy contrast, making each bite richer.
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili for a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
• Tortilla Strips – Crispy tortilla strips add crunch and a fun texture to your bowl of chili.
• Cheese – Sprinkle Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese on top for a melty, savory addition.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and herbaceous flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet complement to the spicy chili.
• Fritos – Add Fritos for extra crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into the chili.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To make your White Chicken Chili truly exceptional, consider these tips that will enhance its taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for maximum flavor impact.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Taste your chili as it cooks and adjust spices according to your heat preference.
• Thicken with Beans – Blend some beans before adding them back into the pot; this creates a thicker, creamier broth.
• Let it Simmer Longer – Allowing the chili to simmer enhances flavors; just ensure it doesn’t boil too rapidly.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try different toppings like jalapeños or crispy bacon for added variety.
• Make Ahead of Time – Prepare your chili a day in advance; flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit overnight.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing sides with White Chicken Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some popular options that go well with this creamy dish.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread perfectly balances the spiciness of the chili. Serve warm with butter.
2. Rice – A side of fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the broth nicely, making for a hearty meal.
3. Salad – A light green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that cuts through the richness of the chili.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is great for dipping into the creamy broth, adding flavor and crunch.
5. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing element alongside the warm chili.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Pairing this classic comfort food with chili makes for an ultimate cozy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

White Chicken Chili is a delicious dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect its taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Keep an eye on the cooking time and shred it as soon as it’s done.
• Neglecting Seasonings: Skipping or under-seasoning can lead to a bland chili. Make sure to measure your spices accurately and taste as you go.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or broth can lower the temperature of your chili. Always allow ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring Texture Balance: A smooth broth is great, but too smooth can be boring. Reserve some beans to blend for thickness while keeping others whole for texture.
• Not Adjusting Consistency: If your chili is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth. Adjusting the consistency ensures a perfect creamy white chicken chili.
• Forgetting Toppings: Toppings enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip the lime wedges, avocado, or cheese—they elevate the dish!

Refrigerator Storage

• White Chicken Chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Allow the chili to cool down before storing it in the fridge.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

• You can freeze White Chicken Chili for up to 3 months.
• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date so you can track freshness.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this White Chicken Chili creamy?

The addition of cream cheese creates a rich and creamy broth that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply follow the instructions but combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I spice up my White Chicken Chili?

To increase spiciness, consider adding more jalapeños or cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.

What toppings go well with White Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include diced avocado, sour cream, lime wedges, tortilla strips, and shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.

Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans work well, feel free to substitute with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite toppings or extra spices. Give it a try; you won’t regret this warm and comforting dish!

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White Chicken Chili

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of this Creamy White Chicken Chili, a perfect dish for chilly evenings and gatherings. Featuring tender chicken, zesty green chilies, and a rich cream cheese base, it delivers a delightful blend of flavors in every bite. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, lime, and cheese. Whether you’re hosting friends on game day or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this chili promises to satisfy cravings while being a wholesome option packed with protein and fiber. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade chili that will impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 large jalapeno pepper (seeded and diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup half and half
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
• 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (drained)
• 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast
• 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn (drained)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies (undrained)
• Lime wedges
• Diced Avocado
• Sour cream
• Tortilla Strips
• Fritos
• Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese

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Instructions

1. Combine all the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside for later use.
2. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and toss to coat the vegetables. Cook for about 2 minutes until there’s no raw flour smell.
4. Gradually add in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the half-and-half in small splashes as well.
5. If desired, reserve one heaping cup of drained beans. Blend it with ½ cup of broth using a food processor or immersion blender until smooth. Add this mixture back to the soup along with remaining whole beans.
6. Add all seasonings along with hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
7. Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them along with sweet corn into the pot. Let simmer gently uncovered for another 15-20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
8. Once cooked through, remove chicken from pot. Shred it using two forks before returning it back to the pot.
9. Reduce heat to low before stirring in softened cream cheese until completely melted into the chili.
10. Taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed before serving it up hot with cornbread!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, let the chili sit overnight before serving; it enhances taste as flavors meld together. Consider substituting cannellini beans with black or pinto beans if preferred.