Description
This White Chicken Chili is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly nights! Packed with tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a rich, seasoned broth, this comforting meal comes together in just one pot. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the White Chicken Chili:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (drained)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small jalapeño, diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
For Toppings (Optional):
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack)
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Tortilla chips
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced green chilies.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Make it Creamy:
- Stir in the drained white beans.
- Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in fresh lime juice for added brightness.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time—just shred and add it in Step 3.
- Make it dairy-free by swapping cream cheese and heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American