Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in! Imagine tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a hint of spice, all simmered together in a rich and creamy broth. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a satisfying and delicious chili that’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a game day gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of chicken, white beans, green chilies, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying chili with a creamy texture.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking, or add different vegetables or beans for a more complex flavor.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables.
• Yellow onion: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Chili powder: Adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Ground cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
• Dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: A lean and healthy protein source.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and forms the base of the chili.
• White beans: Adds a creamy texture and a boost of protein and fiber.
• Diced green chilies: Adds a mild kick and a touch of Southwestern flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the chili.
• Lime juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the flavors.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Season the chili to perfection.

For Topping (Optional)

• Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color.
• Tortilla strips: Adds a crunchy texture.
• Shredded cheese: Adds extra cheesiness and flavor.
• Lime wedges: Adds an extra squeeze of lime juice for those who like it tangier.
• Avocado: Adds a creamy and healthy topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Spices

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute more, or until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breast to the pot and season well with salt and pepper. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.

Step 4: Finish the Chili

Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the white beans and green chilies. Cube the cream cheese and stir it into the soup until melted and smooth. Stir in the lime juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth as needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the Creamy White Chicken Chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, tortilla strips, shredded cheese, lime wedges, or avocado. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use cooked chicken: Save time by using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or red pepper flakes to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the chili.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the pot along with the onions, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or chopped spinach.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier chili, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each serving.

How to Serve

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla chips, for people to customize their bowls.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the flavors of the chili beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bean? Yes, you can! Other beans that would work well in this recipe include cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, or even black beans.

2. Can I make this chili vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

3. Can I make this chili spicier? Definitely! Add more chili powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or some diced jalapeños to the pot.

4. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded.

This Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and creamy texture, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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