White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, white beans, and a creamy, mildly spiced broth. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
1.4 Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
1.5 Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
1.6 Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add the white beans and corn, stirring to combine.
- Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and shredded cheese until the chili becomes creamy.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro.
1.7 What to Serve With
- Warm cornbread
- Tortilla chips or crackers
- Simple green salad
- Steamed rice
1.8 Pro Tips
- For extra depth of flavor, lightly mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper.
1.9 Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 22 g
2. FAQ
Can I make White Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Yes, freeze it without the dairy. Add sour cream and cream after reheating.
Is this chili very spicy?
No, it has a mild heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level.
What makes White Chicken Chili different from regular chili?
It uses white beans, chicken, and a creamy broth instead of tomatoes and beef.
3. Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Creamy, balanced, and deeply comforting, it’s a dish you’ll come back to whenever you need something nourishing and familiar. Perfect for sharing, simple to prepare, and always satisfying.