This creamy white chicken chili is the perfect mix of tender chicken, white beans, and a smooth, rich sauce. It’s warm and inviting, making it a great choice for chilly evenings!
I love how easy it is to make, just throw everything into one pot and let it simmer. Pair it with some crunchy tortilla chips, and you’re in for a treat! 🌶️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil adds a great base flavor. If you’re out, canola or vegetable oil works well too—just avoid strong flavored oils like sesame, as they can alter the taste.
Jalapeños: These peppers add just the right kick! You can replace them with poblano peppers for a milder flavor, or skip them if you prefer no heat. For extra spiciness, consider serrano peppers.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can use thighs for more flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a nice shortcut if you’re short on time—just shred it and add it at the end.
White Beans: I love using cannellini beans, but great northern beans will work perfectly too. In a pinch, you can use any canned white beans or even cooked chickpeas for a twist!
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: This makes the chili creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whole milk or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chili Consistency?
The consistency of your chili can make a big difference. Follow these simple tips for the right texture. Start by cooking your onions and jalapeños to create a flavorful base that adds to the sauce.
- Mash some of the white beans using a potato masher to thicken the chili—it creates a creamy texture while still leaving some whole beans for bite.
- Once you’ve added the cream, heat gently to avoid boiling. This keeps the cream from curdling, making sure it’s silky smooth.
- If the chili feels too thick, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
By taking these steps, you’ll have a delicious and creamy white chicken chili that everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, lime wedges, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy white chicken chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook. Including simmering time, you’re looking at a total of about 45-50 minutes. Perfect for a warm and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeños. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This is where all the flavors start building up!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and let it cook for another minute, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant. You’ll love the aroma!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s lightly browned on all sides. It should start smelling delicious by now!
4. Spice it Up!
Now, stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for just 30 seconds to toast the spices, bringing out their full flavor.
5. Add Beans and Broth:
Pour in the white beans and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This will help all the flavors come together and cook the chicken through.
6. Thicken the Chili:
After simmering, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans, which will help thicken the chili. But be sure to leave some beans whole for that lovely texture!
7. Stir in the Cream:
Now, slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half along with the chopped cilantro. Heat it through for about 5 minutes but avoid boiling to keep everything creamy and smooth.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You want it just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and any optional toppings you love, like sour cream, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime. Pair it with tortilla chips or warm cornbread for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your creamy white chicken chili! It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your belly. 🌶️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely first. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more jalapeños or include some diced serrano peppers. Additionally, a dash of hot sauce or an extra pinch of cayenne pepper will enhance the spice level as well!
How Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it thickens too much. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with veggie crumbles or diced tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.
