This tasty White Chicken Chili is warm and cozy, filled with tender chicken, creamy beans, and a hint of spice. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you need a comforting meal!
I love how this chili is both easy to make and packed with flavor! Serve it with some crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese on top, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing. If you’re out, avocado oil or even butter works well too. They both give wonderful flavor.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer a milder taste, try using a shallot or a green onion instead.
Jalapeño Peppers: Adjust the heat by using one or two jalapeños. If you want it milder, you can skip them entirely, or use bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
Cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness. Ground coriander or chili powder can substitute if needed, but the flavor will shift a bit.
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans are perfect for this chili. If you’re looking for an alternative, chickpeas can add a different texture.
Sour Cream/Cream Cheese: Both add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something lighter. Use a dairy-free option if needed!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Creamy and Well-Flavored?
The key to a creamy White Chicken Chili lies in how you blend the dairy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by reducing the heat after the chili simmers. If it’s too hot, dairy can separate or curdle.
- Add the cream cheese in chunks, stirring until it fully melts before adding sour cream or yogurt.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust with lime juice, salt, and pepper to balance the flavors.
These steps will help you achieve a deliciously creamy chili that’s packed with flavor and warmth!
How to Make White Chicken Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Topping:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumble cotija cheese
- Fresh sliced jalapeño (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious White Chicken Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to serve a warm and comforting bowl of chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it’s soft and translucent. This will be the flavor foundation for your chili!
2. Add the Aromatics:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño, cooking them for another minute until everything smells wonderful. You can adjust the amount of jalapeño based on how spicy you like your chili.
3. Incorporate the Spices:
Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Give everything a good stir to make sure the spices coat the onion and garlic mixture evenly.
4. Simmer the Chili:
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it to a simmer. This is where all those flavors start to blend beautifully!
5. Add Beans and Chicken:
Once simmering, add the drained white beans and shredded chicken. Let the chili simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and the chicken to heat through.
6. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese chunks until they completely melt and blend into the chili. Then, mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt to add that delicious creaminess. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste!
7. Finish with Lime Juice:
Take your chili off the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. This adds a bright note that really brings the dish to life!
8. Serve it Up:
ladle the chili into bowls and top it with your choice of garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and fresh sliced jalapeño if you like an extra kick. Enjoy this warm and creamy dish!
Dig in and enjoy your homemade White Chicken Chili, a perfect bowl of comfort!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Fresh Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can save time and still result in a delicious chili. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the pot!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, use just one jalapeño or omit it altogether. You can also replace it with a bell pepper for a sweet flavor without the heat. For extra spice, consider adding more cayenne or even a splash of hot sauce!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this White Chicken Chili freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
What Can I Serve with White Chicken Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or over rice. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or top with avocado slices for extra creaminess!
