As the sun begins to set and the kitchen starts to fill with the comforting aroma of spices, I can feel the joy of cooking embrace me like an old friend. This Quick & Creamy White Chicken Chili is my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when I crave something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender pulled chicken and hearty white beans, this dish is not just delicious; it’s a healthy meal packed with protein and low in carbs, making it perfect for anyone looking to nourish themselves after a long day. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes—talk about a dinner win! So, are you ready to stir up a bowl of cozy goodness?
What Makes This Chili So Special?
Quick Preparation: You’ll whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Creamy Texture: The combination of sour cream and tender chicken creates a rich, luscious chili that you’ll want to savor.
Healthy Twist: Packed with high protein and low carbs, this dish is perfect for meal prep or anyone looking to eat cleaner.
Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level with jalapeños to make it uniquely yours!
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at gatherings, and you’ll see everyone going back for seconds, just like with my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Cowboy Butter Chicken!
White Chicken Chili Ingredients
• Get ready to create something delicious!
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil for a mild flavor.
- Onion – Adds flavor and sweetness; use red onion for a softer taste.
- Garlic – Provides an aromatic depth; both fresh minced or pre-minced work well.
- Chicken Broth – Base of the chili; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
For the Chili
- Great Northern Beans – Provides texture and protein; any white beans or chickpeas can be substituted.
- Mild Green Chilis – Adds a gentle kick; substitute with jalapeños for extra heat, or omit for milder chili.
- Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; using rotisserie chicken can save time.
- Corn – Introduces sweetness and color; diced bell peppers can be a great substitute.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Oregano, Salt, Black Pepper – A spice blend for enhanced flavor; tweak quantities to suit your taste.
For Creaminess
- Sour Cream – Adds a creamy finish; try Greek yogurt as a healthier option.
- Cornmeal (optional) – Thickens the chili; omit for a thinner consistency, if preferred.
This White Chicken Chili is not only quick and easy, but it also offers a comforting embrace that you’ll fall in love with week after week!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until it’s softened and slightly translucent. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant, enhancing the base of your White Chicken Chili.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by 2 cans of drained Great Northern beans, and a can of mild green chilis. Stir in 2 cups of diced cooked chicken (or shredded rotisserie chicken) and 1 cup of corn. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a rolling boil, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer Chili
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let your White Chicken Chili simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to heat through and the flavors to deepen. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens slightly and the ingredients are heated thoroughly.
Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream
In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of sour cream with ½ cup of the hot broth taken from the pot to temper it, preventing curdling. Slowly pour this mixture back into the pot, stirring as you do so to achieve that creamy consistency. This step adds richness to your chili, making it irresistibly smooth.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your White Chicken Chili and adjust the seasoning based on your preference. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick. Let it simmer for another couple of minutes to integrate any additions, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm White Chicken Chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or tortilla chips for crunch. This hearty dish can also be accompanied by crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.
White Chicken Chili Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your White Chicken Chili, as there are plenty of delightful ways to tailor it to your taste!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free option that adds a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of cayenne pepper for a fiery version that warms you from the inside out.
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth, replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and skip the sour cream for a hearty vegetarian delight.
- Extra Veggies: Throw in chopped bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrients and add vibrant colors that’ll make your chili pop visually.
- Creamy Twist: For an extra creamy texture, blend in a little creamy cashew sauce or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
- Flavorful Beans: Swap Great Northern beans with cannellini or navy beans for a different flavor profile while keeping it creamy.
- Thicker Chili: If you like your chili extra thick, add more cornmeal as you simmer, letting it gradually absorb the liquid.
- Herby Freshness: Top your chili with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or even add a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing zing.
By exploring these variations, you can always keep dinner exciting! Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a cozy side to accompany your chili, serving it alongside my Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe with Avocado would be a fantastic choice!
Storage Tips for White Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious White Chicken Chili fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: You can freeze the chili for longer storage, up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well to combine any separated ingredients.
Thickening: If the chili thickens too much after freezing, add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to restore its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Quick & Creamy White Chicken Chili
There’s nothing like pairing your warm bowl of chili with delightful sides that elevate your dining experience.
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Crusty Bread: This warm, satisfying bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up every last drop of the creamy chili.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, they add a delightful contrast that complements the soft, hearty textures of the chili, making each bite exciting.
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Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado combined with fresh tomatoes and lime creates a refreshing contrast that brightens the overall meal.
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Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chili over fluffy quinoa or rice for a filling and nutritious base that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
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Cheesy Cornbread: Warm cornbread topped with melted cheese adds a sweet, buttery touch that balances the savory heat of the chili.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice boasts fresh flavor notes, making it a perfect pairing to enhance the creamy richness of your soup.
Pairing your Quick & Creamy White Chicken Chili with these delicious sides will surely create a relaxed dinner that warms both your heart and belly!
Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili
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Tempering Sour Cream: Always mix sour cream with hot broth before adding it to avoid curdling. This keeps your White Chicken Chili smooth and creamy.
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Choosing Chicken: For ultimate convenience, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver. Just shred it and toss it in to save on prep time while maintaining flavor.
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Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, feel free to omit the jalapeños. Conversely, add more for a zesty kick to make it your own!
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Thickening Options: If you like a thicker consistency, slowly add cornmeal towards the end of cooking, stirring gradually to ensure even incorporation.
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Leftover Love: Keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat easily for a quick and comforting meal throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These White Chicken Chili options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the base of the chili (without the sour cream) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the aromatics, combine all ingredients, and let it cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, heat the chili on the stove, and temper the sour cream as described in the recipe to maintain that creamy texture. If you prefer, you can store the entire cooked chili in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat thoroughly before garnishing and enjoy a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my chili?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook up tender and juicy in the chili. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option. Just shred it and toss it in at the last minute; it will soak up the flavors beautifully!
How should I store leftovers?
Very easy! Store any leftover White Chicken Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness. This way, you’ll have a quick meal at your fingertips!
Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bags with the date for easy reference. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my chili ends up too thick?
No worries! If your chili becomes thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the liquid, and bring it back to a comforting creamy consistency. Remember to do this slowly to achieve your desired thickness!
Is there a way to make the chili spicy?
Definitely! If you love a kick, you can easily enhance the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when combining the ingredients. Just remember to taste as you go; it’s always great to start mild and go from there!
Is this recipe suitable for my dietary needs?
Yes, this White Chicken Chili is quite versatile! It’s a healthy choice for those looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal. Additionally, you can make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with more beans and using vegetable broth, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this cozy dish.
Creamy White Chicken Chili Ready in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, add 2 cans of drained Great Northern beans, a can of mild green chilis, 2 cups of diced cooked chicken, and 1 cup of corn. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix 1 cup of sour cream with 1/2 cup of hot broth in a small bowl. Slowly pour this mixture back into the pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let simmer for additional minutes to integrate flavors.
- Serve warm in bowls with toppings such as cilantro, avocado, or tortilla chips.
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