White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a delightful dish perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it caters to everyone’s taste buds. The combination of shredded chicken, green chilies, and spices creates a memorable experience. Whether you opt for the Stove Top or Crock Pot method, this chili is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of spices and creamy broth delivers a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it fits various occasions.
• Healthier Option: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, it’s a hearty yet healthy choice.
• Customizable Toppings: Add lime wedges, avocado, or cheese to personalize each bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this flavorful White Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot (4 1/2-quart)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space for stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Blender: Optional but helpful in creating a thicker consistency by blending some beans into the broth.

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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.

Spices and 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

Vegetables

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

Base Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons flour
• 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)

Protein and Extras

• 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)

Toppings

• Lime wedges
• Diced avocado
• Sour cream
• Tortilla strips or Fritos
• Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Combine Seasonings

Combine the spices—chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, mustard powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes—in a small bowl. Set aside.

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

Add flour to the vegetable mixture; toss to coat everything evenly. Cook for around 2 minutes until the raw flour smell dissipates.

Step 4: Add Liquids Gradually

Slowly whisk in chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Repeat with half and half until well combined.

Step 5: Blend Beans (Optional)

If desired for thickness, reserve 1 heaping cup of drained beans and blend them with ½ cup broth using a food processor or immersion blender. Stir this mixture back into the soup along with remaining whole beans.

Step 6: Season & Simmer

Add the combined seasonings along with hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; let simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes before reducing heat.

Step 7: Cook Chicken

Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them along with corn into the pot. Allow to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Step 8: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from pot once cooked through; shred using two forks before returning it back to the chili.

Step 9: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low; stir in softened cream cheese continuously until fully melted into the chili for that creamy texture.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Taste your chili before serving; adjust seasonings as needed. Enjoy with cornbread or your favorite toppings!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer a classic approach or something unique, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Toppings

• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili for a zesty kick.
• Diced Avocado: Add creamy avocado for texture and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spices.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips bring a delightful contrast to the creamy chili.
• Fritos: Use Fritos for extra crunch and a touch of sweetness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the delicious broth.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the chili.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Meal Prep Bowls: Portion out servings in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Freezer Packs: Freeze individual portions for an easy dinner option later.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To achieve the best White Chicken Chili, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasonings: Adjust seasonings according to your taste; don’t be afraid to add more spices if you like it spicy!
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Cream Cheese Timing: Add cream cheese at low heat to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.
• Thickening Options: Blend some of the beans for added thickness or use less broth if you prefer a thicker chili.
• Slow Cooking Advantage: If using a Crock Pot, let it simmer longer for deeper flavors, ideally 4-6 hours on low.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Chili can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: This sweet and moist bread complements the chili’s flavors perfectly.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens balances the meal with freshness.
3. Savory Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds a hearty element alongside the chili.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer a healthy side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread topped with cheese provides a comforting addition.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa can brighten up each spoonful of chili with its vibrant flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Chicken Chili can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes ensures a perfect dish every time.

• Bold Seasonings: Using too much or too little seasoning can ruin your chili. Measure carefully and taste as you cook to adjust flavors.
• Bold Chicken Preparation: Not seasoning the chicken before adding it can lead to blandness. Always season both sides with salt and pepper for better flavor.
• Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the chicken can make it tough. Monitor cooking times closely and remove the chicken once it’s just cooked through.
• Bold Thicker Broth: Forgetting to blend some of the beans can result in a thin broth. Reserve a portion of beans, blend, and then mix back in for optimal thickness.
• Bold Cream Cheese Addition: Adding cream cheese too early can lead to clumps. Wait until the chili is off the heat to stir in the softened cream cheese for a smooth texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover; heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making White Chicken Chili.

How do I customize my White Chicken Chili?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences or try different types of cheese for added flavor.

Can I make White Chicken Chili in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better after resting. Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

Is White Chicken Chili healthy?

Yes! With lean chicken and plenty of beans, it’s packed with protein and fiber while being relatively low in calories.

What is the best way to serve White Chicken Chili?

Serve it hot with toppings like avocado, tortilla strips, or shredded cheese. Pair it with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Can I use different beans in my White Chicken Chili?

Yes! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute them with great northern beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that is both creamy and comforting. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!