White Chicken Chili is a creamy, hearty dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate. Packed with tender chicken, creamy beans, and zesty green chiles, this chili stands out as a delightful twist on traditional chili recipes. Its comforting flavors and easy preparation make it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.
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Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili
This White Chicken Chili is not just another recipe; it’s a culinary experience. It combines familiar tastes in a new way, making it both comforting and refreshing. You can whip it up in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 4 minutes until they are softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained great Northern beans, mild green chiles with their juices, diced chicken breasts, and corn kernels.
- Season the mixture with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- To prevent curdling, take about ½ cup of the hot chili and mix it into the sour cream in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir this mixture back into the pot of chili, ensuring it is well combined and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful White Chicken Chili!
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Plus, its creamy texture balances perfectly with the slight heat from the spices and chiles. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or a newcomer, this dish will delight your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
How to Make White Chicken Chili
Creating this delicious White Chicken Chili is easier than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to enjoy a warm bowl of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 (14-ounce) cans great Northern beans, drained
- 2 (4-ounce) cans mild green chiles with juices
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅔ cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 4 minutes until they are softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained great Northern beans, mild green chiles with their juices, diced chicken breasts, and corn kernels.
- Season the mixture with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- To prevent curdling, take about ½ cup of the hot chili and mix it into the sour cream in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir this mixture back into the pot of chili, ensuring it is well combined and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful White Chicken Chili!
How to Serve White Chicken Chili
Serve the White Chicken Chili in individual bowls, allowing everyone to customize their meal. You can offer toppings like shredded cheese, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor. A side of cornbread or tortilla chips pairs perfectly for dipping. This dish makes an excellent canvas for creative adaptations, so don’t hesitate to personalize it to suit your family’s tastes.
How to Store White Chicken Chili
To store any leftovers of this White Chicken Chili, let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the chili to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chili. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion, and it can last up to three months.
Tips to Make White Chicken Chili Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion bring out the best flavors. Pre-packaged versions often lack the same punch.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne for extra heat. You can also use hotter green chiles if you prefer.
- Cook the Chicken Separately: For more flavor, you might choose to sear the chicken in the pot before adding other ingredients.
- Blend for Creaminess: If you want an extra-creamy chili, blend a portion of the beans with some broth before adding them back to the pot.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with your White Chicken Chili by trying various flavor combinations. Consider adding:
- Different Beans: Black beans or kidney beans can change the texture and taste.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers, diced zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or cumin for a unique twist.
Pro Tips for Success
- Meal Prep: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time to save effort on busy days. Chopping onions and dicing chicken can be done a day in advance.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the chili before serving and adjust seasonings if needed. A little more salt or spice can significantly enhance the flavors.
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it can be a great shortcut for this recipe just shred it and add it when the other ingredients are combined.
FAQs About White Chicken Chili
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even beef if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients except the sour cream in a slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours. Add the sour cream about 30 minutes before serving to get that creamy consistency.
Is White Chicken Chili gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as all the ingredients are naturally free of gluten. Always check labels for canned goods to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Chili is a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to any table. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, creamy beans, and vibrant spices creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Try this simple White Chicken Chili recipe today, and enjoy a taste of comfort in every bowl.