White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to game day gatherings. With its creamy broth and rich flavors, this recipe showcases the best of simple ingredients, including tender shredded chicken, zesty green chilies, and hearty beans. It’s an easy-to-make chili that will satisfy your cravings while being quick enough for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a 15-minute prep time, this dish is perfect for busy days.
• Creamy Delight: The addition of cream cheese creates a rich, luscious texture that elevates the chili.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili keeps you full and satisfied.
• Stovetop or Slow Cooker: Flexible cooking methods make it easy to fit into your schedule.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delicious White Chicken Chili, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly without burning it on the bottom.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

This White Chicken Chili recipe is easy to make on the Stove Top or in the Crock Pot! The broth has the BEST creamy white broth with cream cheese, green chilies, corn, shredded chicken, and simple seasonings.

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon each: ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, mustard powder
– 1/4 teaspoon each: black pepper, cayenne pepper
– 1 pinch red pepper flakes
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 yellow onion (diced)
– 1 large jalapeno pepper (seeded and diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1/3 cup half and half (half milk, half cream)
– 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (drained)
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies (undrained)
– 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast
– Salt/Pepper
– 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn (drained; can sub frozen corn)
– 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
– Toppings: lime wedges, diced avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, Fritos, Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings

• Combine all dry seasonings in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add diced onions and jalapeno pepper; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

• Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables; toss to coat evenly.
• Cook for about 2 minutes until raw flour smell disappears.

Step 4: Add Broth and Cream

• Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously.
• Follow by adding half and half in the same manner until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Thicken the Chili

• Optionally reserve one cup of drained cannellini beans; blend with half a cup of broth until smooth.
• Return blended mixture to the pot along with remaining whole beans.

Step 6: Season & Simmer

• Stir in seasonings, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies.
• Bring mixture to a gentle boil; let boil uncovered for about 15 minutes before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 7: Cook Chicken

• Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; add them to the pot along with corn.
• Simmer gently uncovered for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to lift any settled beans.

Step 8: Shred Chicken

• Remove cooked chicken from pot; shred using two forks before returning it back to chili.

Step 9: Incorporate Cream Cheese

• Lower heat to low; stir in softened cream cheese until completely melted into chili.

Step 10: Final Taste Adjustments

• Taste chili and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving hot with cornbread or your preferred toppings.

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance your dining experience with a variety of toppings and accompaniments that add flavor and texture.

Toppings for White Chicken Chili

• Diced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado adds a fresh taste and balances the spices.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the chili with acidity, enhancing all the flavors.
• Sour Cream: This cool topping provides a creamy contrast to the spicy chili.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips offer a delightful textural contrast and make for a great garnish.
• Fritos: These corn snacks add a fun crunch and a touch of sweetness to each bite.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice provides a hearty base that complements the chili wonderfully.
• Salad: A simple green salad with light dressing can lighten the meal while adding freshness.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To elevate your White Chicken Chili, consider these expert tips for the best results.

• Bold Seasonings: Adjust spices according to your taste; don’t be afraid to add more chili powder for heat or cumin for depth.
• Quality Broth: Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure cream cheese is softened before adding it to prevent lumps in your chili.
• Simmering Time: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps merge flavors, making it even tastier.
• Bean Texture: Blend part of the beans for thickness but keep some whole for texture contrast.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on toppings; they enhance both flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing your White Chicken Chili with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread is an ideal pairing that soaks up excess broth beautifully.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the spiciness of the chili.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens offers refreshing crunch against the creamy chili.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime enhances flavors while providing bulk.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, nutrition, and earthy flavors to balance the dish.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve your White Chicken Chili. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using Too Much Spice: Adding excessive chili powder or cayenne can overpower the dish. Start with smaller amounts and adjust based on your taste preference.

• Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it won’t distribute evenly in the chili. Use two forks for a quick and effective shredding technique.

• Skipping the Bean Blending Step: Failing to blend some beans may lead to a thinner broth. This step helps thicken your chili, so don’t skip it!

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough and dry. Monitor cooking time carefully, and remove it as soon as it’s cooked through.

• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings before serving can leave your chili bland. Always sample and tweak flavors before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making White Chicken Chili.

Can I use other types of beans in White Chicken Chili?

Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like navy or great northern beans based on your preference.

What toppings go well with White Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include diced avocado, tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh lime wedges for added flavor.

How do I make my White Chicken Chili spicier?

Add more diced jalapeno or increase the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours after adding all ingredients once sautéed.

What is the best way to thicken White Chicken Chili?

Blending part of the beans with broth helps thicken it effectively without changing its flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or adjust spices according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to be a new favorite!