As the chilly winds of autumn began to bite, I found myself craving something warm, hearty, and comforting. That’s when I whipped up what I now proudly call The BEST White Chicken Chili. Imagine the mellow heat of green chiles dancing with the creamy richness of melted cream cheese, all while tender shreds of chicken soak up every flavorful drop.
This isn’t just another bowl of chili; it’s a revelation! Quick to prepare and absolutely loaded with flavor, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights or laid-back weekends when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, I discovered a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence. Whether served with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of avocado, this chili transforms any gathering into a cozy celebration. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious dish to your table!
Why is The BEST White Chicken Chili a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This dish embodies cozy vibes, perfect for chilly days.
Effortless preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
Flavor explosion: Creamy cream cheese melds with zesty green chiles for a rich taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will love it!
Versatile toppings: Customize with your favorite garnishes for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
The BEST White Chicken Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This lean protein keeps the dish healthy and hearty.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Using low-sodium broth enhances flavor without excess salt.
- White kidney beans – These tender beans add creaminess and a great source of fiber.
- Sweet corn – Brings a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors beautifully.
- Green chiles – The key to that signature kick in the BEST white chicken chili!
- Green hot sauce – A touch of heat that can be adjusted to your spice preference.
- Chili powder – Adds depth and warmth; feel free to adjust according to taste.
- Onion powder – A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the chili’s profile.
- Salt – Elevates all the other flavors and brings the dish together.
- Cream cheese – Creates a creamy, luscious texture that makes this chili stand out.
For Thicker Chili (Optional)
- Cornstarch – Use this to achieve your desired level of thickness in the chili.
- Water – Mix with cornstarch to activate its thickening power.
For Serving
- Chips – Perfect for dipping or adding crunch to each spoonful.
- Avocado – Creamy and rich, balances the spice beautifully.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime adds brightness and freshness.
- Salsa – For an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Cheese – A sprinkle of your favorite cheese for that melty goodness.
- Jalapenos – For an additional kick if you’re craving more heat!
How to Make The BEST White Chicken Chili
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Add the Chicken: In a 3- to 4-quart Dutch oven or soup pot, place the chicken breasts along with the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken back into the pot with the broth.
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Mix in the Beans & Veggies: Add the white kidney beans, sweet corn, green chiles, green hot sauce, chili powder, onion powder, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the flavors to meld.
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Incorporate the Cream Cheese: Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the pot. Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese melts into the chili and creates a rich, creamy texture.
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Thicken the Chili (Optional): If you prefer a thicker chili, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the simmering chili and stir well to thicken further.
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Serve Up the Flavor: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes such as hot sauce, chips, avocado, lime wedges, salsa, shredded cheese, or jalapenos for an extra kick!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with The BEST White Chicken Chili?
Offering a warm and inviting experience, these delightful sides will beautifully complement the rich flavors of your chili feast.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Add a fun crunch for scooping and enhance the chili with a salty, satisfying texture.
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Creamy Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip packs a punch of flavor and coolness that balances the chili’s spice perfectly.
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Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime brightens every bowl, lifting the flavors and adding a refreshing twist.
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Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb offers a burst of freshness, complementing the chili’s rich and savory notes.
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Shredded Cheese: Melting cheese on top creates a comforting layer and enhances the overall creamy profile of the dish.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of cool sour cream offers an excellent contrast to the warm chili, providing a perfect richness.
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Spicy Jalapeños: For those who like it hot, a few slices on top add additional heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Sweet Cornbread: Serve with a side of cornbread for a sweet and savory pairing that’s an all-time classic with chili.
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Chilled Beer: A light lager or ale pairs perfectly, with its crispness providing a refreshing balance to the hearty chili.
With these sides, you’ll create a complete and inviting meal that turns any gathering into a festive feast!
The BEST White Chicken Chili Variations
Feel free to get creative and make adjustments to suit your palate!
- Spicy Option: Add diced jalapenos to the chili for an extra kick—perfect for those who love heat!
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or extra beans for a hearty plant-based version. You’ll still get that satisfying texture and flavor!
- Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist that still provides creaminess.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for deep, melded flavors—set it and forget it!
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness that brightens each spoonful.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut cream for cream cheese to create a rich, dairy-free chili without sacrificing creaminess.
- Lentil-Loaded: Toss in cooked lentils instead of chicken to add a protein punch and a different texture to enjoy!
- Zesty Citrus: Brighten the flavors with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving—it’s a delightful surprise!
Expert Tips for The BEST White Chicken Chili
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors significantly, so opt for high-quality chicken and the freshest vegetables for your chili.
Shred Chicken Effectively: Shredding the chicken while it’s still warm allows for easier shredding and helps it absorb more flavors, making the BEST white chicken chili even tastier.
Watch the Heat: Balance the green hot sauce and chili powder to match your heat preference. Start with less and adjust as needed for a milder chili.
Cream Cheese Technique: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to avoid lumps. Stir it in gradually to achieve a smooth consistency.
Thickening Tips: If your chili turns out too thin, whisking cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding will prevent clumps and give you the perfect thickness.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust the seasonings to suit your palate; a dash more salt or lime can really elevate the dish!
Make Ahead Options
These The BEST White Chicken Chili options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the shredded chicken and broth up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop and combine the vegetables and spices, allowing them to meld in flavor for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just add everything to the pot, stir in the cream cheese, and let it simmer until deliciously warmed through. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of chili ready with minimal effort, bringing cozy vibes to any weeknight!
How to Store and Freeze The BEST White Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools fully before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the BEST white chicken chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the chili.
Serving Freshness: If reheating from frozen, use the microwave or stovetop, ensuring it’s heated to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
The BEST White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the BEST white chicken chili?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they’re lean and cook up tender. Avoid chicken with dark spots or foul smell—freshness is key!
How should I store leftover chili?
Very simple! Store your leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing; this helps maintain its delightful flavors.
Can I freeze the BEST white chicken chili?
Of course! To freeze, ladle portions of the chili into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion (trust me, it’s worth it!). Your chili will be good for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?
No problem at all! If you find your chili a bit thin for your liking, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering chili while stirring. Keep it on medium-low heat, and continue to stir until it thickens to your preference. This should take just a few minutes!
Is this chili pet-friendly?
While the BEST white chicken chili is packed with good ingredients, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The spices and seasonings, especially onion and garlic powders, can be harmful to them. Stick to sharing plain chicken or beans if you want to treat your furry friends!
What can I serve with this chili?
The more the merrier! I love serving it with a variety of toppings—think crunchy tortilla chips for dipping, creamy avocado, zesty lime wedges, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor. You can even add jalapeños if you’re in the mood for more heat!
The BEST White Chicken Chili You'll Crave on Chilly Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pot, place the chicken breasts and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Carefully shred the chicken with forks and return it to the pot.
- Add white kidney beans, sweet corn, green chiles, green hot sauce, chili powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cut cream cheese into cubes and add it. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes until melted.
- For thicker chili, mix cornstarch with water and add to the pot. Stir to thicken.
- Ladle chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.