Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting a truly exceptional Creamy White Chicken Chili! This isn’t just any chili recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a comforting and robust one-pot meal that effortlessly combines the savory goodness of tender chicken with a rich, velvety broth. Forget traditional red chili for a moment and prepare to be enchanted by this delightful alternative, brimming with succulent chicken, hearty white beans, subtle green chilis, and a harmonious blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re battling a chilly evening or simply craving a fulfilling meal that comes together with ease, this white chicken chili is your perfect companion. It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to either your stovetop for a quick weeknight dinner or your slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Serve it generously adorned with your favorite toppings – think a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or creamy diced avocados – alongside a crusty piece of bread for dipping, and watch it disappear. If you’re also a fan of classic comfort, don’t miss our Easy Beef Chili for another family favorite.
The Ultimate Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe: A One-Pot Wonder
As the crisp air of autumn descends and winter’s embrace grows tighter, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a steaming bowl of homemade chili. While many gravitate towards classic beef chili, our Creamy White Chicken Chili offers a refreshingly different, yet equally comforting experience. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s warm, inviting, incredibly filling, and can be on your table in under an hour, or simmered to perfection in a slow cooker.
One of the many reasons to adore this recipe is its sheer convenience. It truly shines as a pantry-friendly dish, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal using ingredients you likely already have on hand. For an even quicker preparation, feel free to incorporate leftover cooked chicken or grab a succulent rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. And don’t stress about the specific type of beans – this recipe is wonderfully forgiving! White Northern beans are suggested, but cannellini, garbanzo, pinto, or even black beans will work beautifully, allowing you to customize it to your preference or what’s available in your pantry.
For those continually seeking nutritious and delicious options, this white chicken chili can be easily adapted to be a lighter meal. Explore more Healthy Chicken Recipes or discover additional Healthy Dinner Recipes for further inspiration to keep your meal planning exciting and wholesome.
Why You’ll Adore This Creamy White Chicken Chili
This isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a game-changer for your weeknight rotation and a comforting staple you’ll return to time and again. Here’s why this Creamy White Chicken Chili deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
- Effortless One-Pot Meal: Say goodbye to stacks of dirty dishes! This entire recipe, from sautéing to simmering, can be made in a single pot, making cleanup an absolute breeze. Perfect for busy individuals and families.
- Speedy Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cook time, you can have a hearty, homemade meal on the table in under an hour. It’s faster than ordering takeout and infinitely more satisfying.
- Incredibly Versatile: Whether you prefer the quick stovetop method or the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker, this chili adapts seamlessly to your cooking style and schedule.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Unlike traditional tomato-based chilis, this white chicken chili boasts a luxurious, creamy broth achieved with half-and-half and a cornstarch slurry. It’s a velvety texture that feels indulgent yet remains light.
- Flavorful and Mildly Spiced: A thoughtful blend of chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and oregano creates a deeply flavorful profile with a gentle warmth. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your palate, adding more cayenne for a kick or keeping it mild.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Most ingredients are common staples you likely already have, minimizing last-minute grocery runs. Chicken, beans, broth, and a few spices are all you need to create magic.
- Customization King: From different types of beans and chicken to a wide array of toppings, this chili is a blank canvas for your creativity. Make it your own every time!
- Comfort Food Champion: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of chili. This version provides that classic cozy feeling, making it perfect for cold weather, family dinners, or simply a treat for yourself.
Easy White Chicken Chili Video Tutorial
For visual learners and those who love to see the cooking process in action, we’ve prepared a comprehensive video tutorial. Watch as we walk you through each step of creating this delicious creamy white chicken chili, offering tips and tricks to ensure your success in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect White Chicken Chili
The beauty of this white chicken chili lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the robust and creamy flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection and substitutions:
- Chicken: The star of our chili! You can cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts specifically for this recipe, dicing them into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, for ultimate convenience, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor and even more tender texture.
- Onion: A foundational aromatic. Either white or yellow onions work best, as they caramelize beautifully when sautéed, adding a sweet depth to the broth. Dice them finely for even distribution throughout the chili.
- Garlic: Essential for its pungent and savory notes. Freshly minced garlic provides the most vibrant flavor. Avoid garlic powder if possible, but if fresh isn’t available, adjust powdered garlic quantity accordingly (1/4 teaspoon garlic powder per clove).
- White Northern Beans: These mild, creamy beans are perfect for white chili. Canned beans are convenient; just remember to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture. Excellent substitutes include cannellini beans, great northern beans, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), pinto beans, or even black beans if you don’t mind a slightly darker chili.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base for our flavorful soup. Use a good quality chicken broth, either homemade or store-bought. Low-sodium broth is a great option if you’re watching your sodium intake, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Diced Green Chilis: These canned chilis add a mild, earthy spice and authentic Mexican flavor without being overwhelmingly hot. You’ll typically find them in the Mexican food aisle. For a bit more heat, you could opt for a can of diced jalapeños, but use with caution!
- Spices: A carefully chosen blend creates the signature chili flavor. You’ll need chili powder, ground cumin, a pinch of cayenne pepper (for a touch of heat), black pepper, and dried oregano. Feel free to adjust the amounts of each spice based on your personal preference for warmth and intensity.
- Half and Half: This is what gives our chili its wonderfully creamy consistency and rich mouthfeel. For a slightly lighter version, you could substitute whole milk. For an even richer and tangier creaminess, a few ounces of cream cheese or sour cream can be stirred in at the end.
- Cornstarch: Our secret weapon for achieving that perfect, velvety thickness. Cornstarch creates a smooth, lump-free slurry when mixed with cold water, thickening the chili without altering its flavor.
- Cold Water: Crucial for creating a smooth cornstarch slurry. Always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to hot liquids to prevent lumps.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Creamy White Chicken Chili
Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and flavorful creamy white chicken chili that will become a new family favorite. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
- Sauté Aromatics and Cook Chicken:
Begin by heating the avocado oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onions. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and begin to turn golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant, soft, and lightly browned, being careful not to burn it. Add the diced chicken breast and a teaspoon of salt to the pot. Cook, stirring, until the chicken is no longer pink and is fully cooked through, approximately 7 minutes. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply add it during step 2 to warm through.
- Simmer the Chili Base:
To the pot, add the drained and rinsed white northern beans, chicken broth, the can of diced green chilis, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, and dried oregano. Stir all the ingredients together to combine. Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the half and half, ensuring it is fully incorporated into the broth.
- Thicken the Soup:
In a small separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with the cold water. Whisk vigorously with a fork or small whisk until a smooth, lump-free slurry forms. Slowly pour this cornstarch mixture into the simmering soup while continuously stirring. Continue to stir gently until the broth visibly thickens to your desired consistency. This should only take a few minutes as the cornstarch activates with the heat.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Once your creamy white chicken chili has reached its perfect thickened state, it’s ready to serve immediately. Ladle generous portions into individual bowls. Now comes the best part – customize each serving with your favorite toppings! Common choices include shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar work wonderfully), crunchy tortilla strips, fresh lime wedges for a burst of citrus, or any of the delicious suggestions below. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!
Making it in a Slow Cooker
This recipe is incredibly adaptable to a slow cooker for those days when you need a truly hands-off meal. Here’s how to convert it:
First, you’ll still want to sauté your diced onions and minced garlic in a separate pan on the stovetop until golden brown and fragrant. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor that you wouldn’t get by simply throwing them raw into the slow cooker.
Once sautéed, transfer the onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add your diced chicken (raw or pre-cooked), salt, chicken broth, diced green chilis, and all the spices (chili powder, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, oregano). Stir everything well to combine. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. If using raw chicken, you can shred it directly in the slow cooker with two forks once cooked.
About 30 minutes before the end of your cooking time, remove the lid. Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans, the half and half, and the cornstarch slurry (prepared by whisking cornstarch with cold water in a separate bowl until smooth). Mix everything thoroughly. Recover and continue to cook for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened to your liking and is warmed through. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions and Delicious Toppings
A hearty and thick chili like this creamy white chicken chili provides the perfect canvas for an array of vibrant and flavorful toppings. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add wonderful texture and visual appeal to your meal. Don’t be shy about customizing your bowl!
Irresistible Topping Ideas
- Shredded Cheese: Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp cheddar all melt beautifully and add a creamy, salty kick.
- Sliced Avocado: Adds a rich, buttery texture and a cool counterpoint to the warm chili.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop provides a cool, tangy creaminess that beautifully balances the spices. Greek yogurt is a fantastic lighter alternative.
- Crispy Tortilla Strips or Chips: Offers a satisfying crunch and a salty flavor contrast.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro brightens the flavor with its herbaceous notes.
- Sliced Jalapeño: For those who love an extra layer of heat and a fresh, spicy crunch. Remove seeds for less heat.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating adds a burst of acidity that really makes the flavors pop.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds a touch of sweetness and textural variety.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild oniony bite and a fresh garnish.
Perfect Bread Pairings for Dipping
What’s chili without something delicious to scoop it up with? These bread options are ideal for soaking up every last bit of that creamy broth:
- Fluffy Baking Powder Biscuits: Soft, tender, and perfect for dipping.
- Easy Homemade Cornbread: A classic chili pairing, offering a slightly sweet and crumbly texture.
- Garlic Pull-Apart Bread: Cheesy and garlicky, this bread adds an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Rustic Cheddar Cheese Bread: A crusty loaf infused with cheddar, wonderful for hearty dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully suited for a slow cooker. You’ll still want to sauté your onions and garlic in a separate pan beforehand to build a robust flavor base; don’t skip this step, as it makes a big difference! Once sautéed, add the onions, garlic, chicken (raw or pre-cooked), salt, broth, green chilis, and spices to your crockpot. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the drained beans, half and half, and the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch whisked with cold water). Continue cooking until thickened and heated through. Shred the chicken if using raw breasts or thighs once cooked.
Our creamy white chicken chili primarily uses a cornstarch slurry for thickening. This involves whisking cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then slowly adding it to the simmering chili while stirring constantly. The heat activates the cornstarch, creating a silky, smooth broth without lumps. For an even creamier consistency and added body, you can blend about half of the cooked white beans using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth, then stir them back into the soup. This adds natural thickness and creaminess. For an extra rich, dairy-infused base, stir in about 4 ounces of cream cheese or a generous dollop of sour cream (beyond just a topping) at the end of the cooking process, allowing it to melt thoroughly into the broth.
While this recipe typically calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you have several excellent options. Chicken breasts are lean and absorb flavors wonderfully. For a richer flavor and even more tender texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic choice. For ultimate convenience, pre-cooked chicken, such as shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have, works perfectly and significantly cuts down on prep time. All these options will yield a delicious chili, so choose what best suits your preference and what you have available.
Absolutely! If you crave more heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice. You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices, or include a finely diced fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions and garlic. For a smoky heat, a dash of chipotle powder works wonders. Always taste and adjust to your preferred spice level.
Yes, this creamy white chicken chili is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients – chicken, beans, broth, green chilis, spices, half-and-half, and cornstarch – are typically gluten-free. Always double-check labels on ingredients like chicken broth to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten-containing additives, but generally, this recipe is a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Storing and Freezing Your Creamy White Chicken Chili
This creamy white chicken chili is fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers. Proper storage ensures its deliciousness for days or even months to come.
- Refrigerator: Allow the chili to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chili. Ensure it is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags (laying them flat to freeze) or airtight freezer-safe containers. Label with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. The texture of the half-and-half might change slightly upon thawing, but it will still be incredibly flavorful.
- Reheating: If frozen, transfer the chili to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed (or if reheating from the fridge), transfer it to a pot and reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the chili appears too thick after reheating. Serve with your favorite fresh toppings.
Rating: 4.58 from 7 votes
Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
This white chicken chili is a quick, easy, and hearty one-pot meal that can be made on the stovetop or slow cooker. A great alternative to traditional chili, this version is made with a thick, creamy broth packed with chicken, onions, white beans, green chilis, and spices.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Yields: 8 people
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, white or yellow, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1/2″ dice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 (14-ounce) cans white northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 cup half & half
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Toppings
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 medium jalapeño, deseeded and sliced thinly (optional)
- 1 large lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and cook until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for about 2 more minutes, until soft and fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken and salt to the pot. Cook, stirring, until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through, approximately 7 minutes.
- Next, add the drained beans, chicken broth, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, and oregano. Bring the soup to a low simmer. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then stir in the half and half.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water. Whisk well until completely smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the simmering soup while constantly stirring until the broth has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Once the soup has thickened, remove it from the heat and serve immediately. Ladle into bowls and generously top with shredded cheese, tortilla strips, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, or any of your other favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Storing instructions: Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If frozen, transfer to the fridge overnight to thaw. Once ready to serve, reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop in a pot, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
Calories: 262kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 847mg | Potassium: 351mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 374IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 164mg | Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mexican
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More Comforting Chili and Soup Recipes to Explore
If you loved this creamy white chicken chili, you’re sure to enjoy these other heartwarming soup and chili recipes from our collection:
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- Discover even more incredible options in our Best Soup Recipes category.
This Creamy White Chicken Chili recipe truly is a fantastic one-pot meal to add to your culinary repertoire. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, delightfully easy to cook, wonderfully hearty, and versatile enough for either your stovetop or slow cooker. This easy white chicken chili stands as a timeless and comforting choice, perfect for warming up during crisp fall days and chilly winter nights. We hope you and your loved ones enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!