White Chicken Chili Recipe
White chicken chili recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe brings together shredded chicken, creamy broth, and a blend of spices for a delicious meal that everyone will love.
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Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili Recipe

This white chicken chili is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber. The creamy texture combined with the mild spice from green chiles makes it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for chilly evenings, game day gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty yet satisfying, this recipe ensures that you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can white beans (such as great northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and lime juice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the cooked chicken, white beans, green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and lime juice as desired.
How to Serve White Chicken Chili Recipe
White chicken chili is delightful on its own or served with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. You can also customize your presentation by offering a toppings bar with options like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice. This allows everyone to create their perfect bowl, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store White Chicken Chili Recipe
Store any leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy consistency, as the chili may thicken during storage.
Tips to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe Perfect
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick meal, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier chili, add jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder.
- Experiment with Beans: While white beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black beans or kidney beans for added variety.
Flavor Variations
This white chicken chili can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences:
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Creamier: Swap some of the chicken broth for additional heavy cream or include cream cheese for an even richer taste.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ingredient Temperature: Make sure the chicken and broth are at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heating.
- Simmer Time: Allow the chili to simmer long enough for flavors to meld but avoid overcooking the heavy cream to prevent curdling.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your chili before serving to adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra balance of salt or spice can make a big difference.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Simply sauté it along with the onions and garlic until it’s cooked through, then shred it and continue with the recipe as directed.
Is white chicken chili gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on any canned products to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients, except for the heavy cream, in a slow cooker for about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Stir in the cream before serving.
Final Thoughts
White chicken chili is a fantastic dish that provides warmth and comfort with every bite. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy this hearty recipe, and feel free to adapt it to make it your own. Don’t forget to share with those you love, because a warm bowl of chili is best enjoyed with good company.

White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the cooked chicken, white beans, green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and lime juice as desired.
