Name: White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup); 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder); 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon paprika; Juice from ½ small lime; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans; 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt); 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh); 2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken); Fresh cilantro; Shredded cheese; Tortilla chips; Green onions; Avocado

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White Chicken Chili

If you’re in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal, white chicken chili is an excellent choice. This dish blends tender chicken with savory spices and creamy ingredients, creating a flavor-packed bowl that warms you right up. It’s a delicious alternative to traditional chili that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why Make This Recipe

White chicken chili is not only tasty, but it also offers a lighter twist on the classic chili that many of us love. By using chicken instead of beef and incorporating healthy ingredients like beans and vegetables, you’re getting a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s relatively simple to make and can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy gathering. The creamy texture, zesty flavors, and the ability to customize your toppings make it a hit for all ages.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Making white chicken chili is straightforward and requires just a few key ingredients. Follow these steps to bring this delightful recipe to your table.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
Juice from ½ small lime
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans
1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken)
Fresh cilantro
Shredded cheese
Tortilla chips
Green onions
Avocado

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large (5-6 quart) pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced green chilies, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, paprika, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drain and rinse the great northern beans in a strainer.
For a thicker chili, measure out a big ladleful of the beans and place them into a food processor along with a splash of the broth from the soup. Puree until smooth—this step is optional but it helps create a creamier texture for the chili.
Add the pureed beans back to the pot along with the whole beans and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes.
Once the chili has thickened to your preference, remove it from heat. Stir in the sour cream and the shredded cooked chicken until combined.
Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, slices of avocado, and tortilla chips if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with White Chicken Chili

Flavor Depth: For an even richer flavor, try sautéing some diced bell peppers along with the onion. This adds a sweet note that balances the spices beautifully.
Sour Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which will still provide a creamy texture with added protein.
Slow Cooker Feast: This chili can easily transform into a slow cooker recipe! Just toss all the ingredients (except for the sour cream and chicken) into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the chicken and sour cream at the end for a perfectly set meal.
Freezer-Friendly: It’s a fantastic meal for meal prep! You can freeze the chili in portions and simply reheat as needed.
Extra Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or additional cayenne pepper to the simmering pot to suit your taste.
Fresh Herbs: Enhance the freshness of your chili with a handful of chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top before serving.

Flavor Variations of White Chicken Chili

Cheesy Twist: Mixing cream cheese into the chili during cooking will give it a luscious, cheesy flavor. You could also sprinkle some shredded cheese directly on top when serving.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with some roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth to replace the chicken broth.
Spicy South of the Border: Incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the heat and bring out those bold flavors.
Smoky Flavor: Add in some smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a depth of flavor that gives it a nice smoky profile.
Creamy Coconut: For a unique twist, substitute a portion of the broth with coconut milk for a slightly sweet and tropical flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for White Chicken Chili

White chicken chili is incredibly versatile, so you can serve it in a variety of ways to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

Garnish with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro for a colorful presentation.
Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for added crunch with each spoonful.
Pair with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
Offer warm cornbread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
For a full cozy meal, pair your chili with a glass of cold iced tea or lemonade to refresh your palette.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for White Chicken Chili

If you have leftovers (or if you plan to make a larger batch), storing your white chicken chili is easy!

Refrigeration: Let the chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, white chicken chili freezes beautifully. Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutritional Information | Amount |
|————————|——–|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About White Chicken Chili

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned chicken is a convenient option. Just drain it beforehand and stir it in at the end of cooking. However, using freshly cooked chicken will give the best flavor and texture.

How do I make this chili spicier?

If you crave extra heat, consider adding fresh or pickled jalapeños, increasing the amount of cayenne pepper, or even incorporating some hot sauce directly into the chili. Just add a little at a time, tasting as you go, to avoid overwhelming the dish with spice.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Certainly! White chicken chili is a fantastic recipe to prepare ahead of time. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What toppings can I use for white chicken chili?

Get creative with your toppings! Some popular choices include shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, tortilla strips, lime wedges, and green onions. These add both flavor and texture to your chili and can cater to a variety of tastes.

Does this recipe work for a slow cooker?

Yes! This recipe translates well to a slow cooker. You can add all ingredients (with the exception of the sour cream and cooked chicken) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the chicken and sour cream before serving.

Final Thoughts

White chicken chili is a delightful, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a chilly evening with family or a gathering of friends. Rich flavors, a creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients make it a winner for both taste and nourishment. Plus, the ease of preparation and customizable toppings ensure that everyone will find something to love about this dish. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the warmth of a homemade bowl of white chicken chili!

White Chicken Chili