If you’re craving a comforting bowl of hearty, flavorful chili without the heavy tomato base, this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and a gentle blend of spices, it’s a cozy dish that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The subtle heat from chili powder and cayenne balances beautifully with the richness of cream, delivering a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your chili. From aromatic spices to creamy beans and tender chicken, they come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s both hearty and inviting.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a warm, pungent depth enhancing the overall taste.
- Ground cumin: Delivers earthy warmth and a smoky undertone.
- Chili powder: Brings a mild heat and classic chili flavor.
- Paprika: Adds smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Provides an extra kick for those who like it spicy.
- Cooked chicken, shredded: The protein star of the dish, tender and juicy.
- White beans, drained and rinsed: Give creamy texture and hearty fiber.
- Diced green chilies: Add subtle tang and mild heat.
- Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base, keeping everything moist.
- Frozen corn kernels: Introduce a pleasant sweetness and pop of color.
- Heavy cream or sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess that rounds out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): For a fresh, herbal garnish that brightens each spoonful.
How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a solid flavor foundation for your chili.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
Next, sprinkle in ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some extra heat. Cook the spices for about 30 seconds to release their essential oils and deepen their aromas – this little step transforms the dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 3: Add the Chicken, Beans, and Broth
Time to bring everything together! Add the shredded cooked chicken, drained white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth into the pot. Stir to combine, then increase the heat just enough for the chili to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors have time to meld.
Step 4: Stir in Corn and Cream
After the chili has simmered, stir in the frozen corn kernels and heavy cream or sour cream. Let the chili simmer for another 5 minutes, which allows the cream to blend thoroughly, creating that velvety texture we all love.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your chili and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like a burst of brightness on top. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors you’ve created with this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe.
How to Serve Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes can elevate your chili from delicious to spectacular. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of vibrant herbaceousness, shredded cheese melts perfectly on top, and a dollop of sour cream balances any spicy notes. Don’t forget some sliced avocado or a squeeze of fresh lime for extra creaminess and zing.
Side Dishes
This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips that are perfect for scooping, or warm cornbread that adds a slightly sweet contrast. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chili in individual bread bowls, turning your meal into an edible delight. You can also layer it in small mason jars for a party or potluck, making it easy to grab and enjoy. Adding toppings buffet-style encourages guests to customize their bowls, making the experience interactive and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe holds up wonderfully as leftovers. Store any uneaten chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
Freezing
You can freeze the chili for up to three months. To freeze, cool it completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Make sure to leave some room for expansion during freezing to keep the texture intact.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. If the chili is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and recapture that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe?
While canned chicken can work in a pinch, freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will provide much better texture and flavor. The ease of using leftover shredded chicken is what makes this chili so satisfying.
Is this chili spicy?
This recipe has a mild to medium spice level by default, thanks to the chili powder and optional cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the cayenne to suit your preference.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while keeping all the other ingredients the same.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option or don’t have heavy cream on hand, sour cream or even Greek yogurt works beautifully to add creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
How thick should the chili be?
This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe should have a slightly thick but still spoonable consistency – creamy and hearty without being too soupy. Adjust thickness by simmering longer or adding extra broth as needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chili, and this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe truly hits all the right notes with its rich, creamy texture and flavorful spices. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly versatile, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did – happy cooking!
Print
Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Made with shredded chicken, white beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, this chili comes together quickly on the stovetop for a hearty meal. The addition of corn and creamy sour cream adds a pleasant sweetness and richness, while optional cilantro garnish provides a fresh finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, forming the flavor base of the chili.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook the mixture for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma, enhancing the overall taste.
- Add Main Ingredients: Incorporate shredded chicken, drained white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Add Corn and Cream: Stir in the frozen corn kernels and heavy cream or sour cream. Allow the chili to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adding creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for a fresh, herbal note.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño in step 1.
- You can substitute cooked shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken if preferred.
- Use low-fat sour cream or omit cream to reduce calories and fat.
- This chili freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the white beans before adding.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
