Pin This This White Chicken Chili is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and sweet corn in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a perfect alternative to traditional beef chili, offering a luscious texture and a gentle touch of spice that the whole family will enjoy.
Pin This The beauty of this American-style chili lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. By simmering the chicken directly in the broth with cumin, oregano, and green chiles, every shred of meat becomes infused with savory goodness. The addition of cream cheese and heavy cream at the end creates a silky consistency that sets this recipe apart.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 (4 oz/115 g) can diced green chiles
- 2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups (1 L) low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Garnishes: fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Step 2
- Add the diced onion and jalapeño; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the chicken breasts, white beans, corn, green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Step 5
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Step 6
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Step 7
- Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream; simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is creamy.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 9
- Serve hot, topped with cilantro, green onions, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an even faster meal, you can substitute the raw chicken with rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the pot after the vegetables and broth have simmered. If you want a thicker texture, you can mash a small portion of the white beans before adding them to the pot.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer more texture and a hint of earthy flavor, try adding a can of drained white hominy. To increase the spice level, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper. This recipe is very flexible; you can easily swap the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
Serviervorschläge
This chili is best served piping hot in rustic bowls. It pairs wonderfully with a side of warm cornbread or a handful of crunchy tortilla chips. Don't forget the fresh garnishes—the lime juice and cilantro add a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream.
Pin This Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this White Chicken Chili is a reliable and delicious choice that delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors actually improve after resting overnight. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The dairy may separate slightly but will emulsify again when warmed.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Increase the jalapeño amount or leave some seeds in. Add extra cayenne pepper or incorporate hot sauce to taste. Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeños makes an excellent spicy topping.
- → Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Certainly. Cook 1 cup dried white beans according to package directions until tender. This adds about 2-3 hours to prep time but yields superior texture and flavor.
- → What sides pair well?
Cornbread is a classic choice. Tortilla chips, crusty bread, or baked potatoes also work beautifully. A simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness nicely.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The result will still be creamy and satisfying.