White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This creamy chili brings together tender shredded chicken, zesty green chilies, and a blend of spices that create a rich and satisfying flavor. With its easy preparation and comforting warmth, this White Chicken Chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this chili in no time.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The addition of cream cheese gives it a velvety texture that makes each spoonful comforting.
• Versatile: Serve it with different toppings like avocado, cheese, or tortilla strips to customize each bowl.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields a large batch, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, this chili is both nutritious and filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious White Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the chili evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve a creamy consistency if you choose to blend some of the beans for added thickness.

Ingredients

This White Chicken Chili recipe is easy to make on the Stove Top or in the Crock Pot! The broth has the BEST creamy white broth with cream cheese, green chilies, corn, shredded chicken, and simple seasonings.

For the Seasonings

• 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

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 large jalapeno pepper (seeded and diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour

For the Chili

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup half and half (half milk, half cream)
• 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (drained)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies (undrained)
• 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast (see notes)
• Salt/Pepper
• 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn (drained; can substitute frozen corn)
• 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)

For Toppings

Lime wedges, diced avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, Fritos, Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings

1. Combine all seasonings in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Thicken the Base

1. Sprinkle flour over sautéed vegetables; toss to coat.
2. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour smell.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

1. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously.
2. Follow by adding half and half in small splashes to maintain smoothness.

Step 5: Blend Beans (Optional)

1. Reserve 1 heaping cup of drained beans; combine with ½ cup broth in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth; return blended beans to the pot along with remaining beans.

Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Stir in seasonings, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies.
2. Bring mixture to a boil; then simmer gently for about 15 minutes uncovered.

Step 7: Cook Chicken

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place chicken into the pot along with corn; simmer gently for 15-20 minutes uncovered.

Step 8: Shred Chicken

1. Once cooked through, remove chicken from pot and shred using two forks.
2. Return shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 9: Incorporate Cream Cheese

1. Reduce heat to low; stir in softened cream cheese until melted completely into chili.

Step 10: Serve

Taste your chili and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot with optional cornbread on the side!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it with toppings or alongside complementing sides, there are multiple serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Toppings

• Diced Avocado: Adds creaminess and freshness to each bowl.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spice and enriches the flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili for a zesty kick.
• Tortilla Strips: Crispy strips provide texture and a satisfying crunch.
• Shredded Cheese: Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds richness.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: This sweet and fluffy bread pairs perfectly with the chili’s savory notes.
• Fritos: Add some fun crunch by sprinkling these corn chips on top or serving them on the side.
• Rice: Serve over rice for a more filling meal, making it even heartier.
• Salad: A light green salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy chili.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To achieve the best version of your White Chicken Chili, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish from good to great!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavors significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.
• Blend Some Beans: For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the beans and mix them back into the chili.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the chili to simmer helps develop deeper flavors; avoid cooking it too quickly.
• Cream Cheese Quality: Use high-quality cream cheese for better melting and richer taste.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Its sweet flavor complements the spicy notes of the chili beautifully.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, it adds an extra layer of flavor.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances your meal while providing healthy fats.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
5. Baked Potatoes: These can be topped with butter, cheese, or chives for a comforting side.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Chicken Chili can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

• Bold seasoning mistakes: Not measuring spices accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Use measuring spoons for precision.
• Bold skipping the blending step: If you skip blending some beans, your chili may not reach the desired creamy texture. Blend part of the beans for a thicker broth.
• Bold overcooking chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Monitor the simmering time closely to keep it tender.
• Bold neglecting ingredient freshness: Using stale or expired ingredients can ruin your chili’s taste. Always check the freshness of your spices and produce.
• Bold ignoring personal preferences: Not adjusting flavors according to taste can lead to disappointment. Taste as you cook and modify seasonings accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• White Chicken Chili lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is White Chicken Chili?

White Chicken Chili is a creamy soup made with chicken, white beans, green chilies, and spices, offering a delicious twist on traditional chili.

How do I make White Chicken Chili spicier?

To increase the heat, add more jalapenos or incorporate additional cayenne pepper or hot sauce during cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken for White Chicken Chili?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding it into the chili.

What are some toppings for White Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include diced avocado, lime wedges, tortilla strips, Fritos, and shredded cheese.

Can I customize this White Chicken Chili recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spices or add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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White Chicken Chili

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of White Chicken Chili, a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings. This delectable chili is made with tender shredded chicken, zesty green chilies, and a unique blend of spices that create a rich flavor profile. With its easy preparation and versatile toppings, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it on chilly evenings or as a satisfying meal prep option—this White Chicken Chili is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies.

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Ingredients

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• 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 jalapeño pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• ⅓ cup half and half
• 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies, undrained
• 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast
• Salt/Pepper to taste
• 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• Optional toppings: diced avocado, lime wedges, tortilla strips, Fritos, shredded Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, mustard powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the onion and jalapeño until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables; cook for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously. Then add half and half gradually.
5. Blend a portion of the drained beans with some broth until smooth; return to the pot along with remaining beans.
6. Stir in seasonings, hot sauce, green chilies; bring to boil then simmer for 15 minutes uncovered.
7. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; place in the pot with corn and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
8. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
9. Reduce heat to low; stir in softened cream cheese until melted completely.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg