White Chicken Chili Recipe | Creamy, Hearty, and Easy to Make

When the air turns crisp and sweaters come out of storage, comforting meals become the star of the table. Among the many hearty dishes that fill fall and winter dinner menus, white chicken chili stands out for its rich flavor, wholesome ingredients, and creamy texture. It delivers the warmth of traditional chili with a lighter, more refreshing spin that chicken lovers can appreciate year-round.

Unlike traditional chili that uses tomatoes and red kidney beans, white chicken chili features tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, green chilies, and a blend of spices that bring everything together in a flavorful broth. The result is a satisfying dish that’s hearty without being too heavy, spicy yet balanced, and easy to make on busy weeknights or lazy Sunday afternoons.

Whether you’re new to making chili or you’re just looking to switch things up from your usual go-to, this white chicken chili recipe is the perfect place to start. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need, the simple cooking process, and expert tips for making it your own.

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Ingredients Needed

White chicken chili is packed with high-protein ingredients and lots of flavor, but it doesn’t require anything fancy. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need, along with an approximate calorie count for each ingredient per serving to help you track your intake if you’re keeping an eye on nutrition.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories (approx.)
Cooked shredded chicken	2 cups	330
Great Northern beans	2 cans (15 oz each)	560
Chicken broth	2 cups	30
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	45
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves	13
Canned green chilies	1 can (4 oz)	25
Cream cheese	4 oz	200
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Ground cumin	1 teaspoon	8
Dried oregano	1 teaspoon	3
Cayenne pepper (optional)	¼ teaspoon	2
Salt and pepper	To taste	0
Fresh lime juice	1 tablespoon	4
Fresh cilantro (garnish)	Optional	1

Total Estimated Calories per Serving (based on 6 servings): around 220 to 300, depending on toppings and variations

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing white chicken chili is a straightforward process that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners and makes delicious leftovers.

Step 1: Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the flavor base
Add green chilies, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir everything well so the onions and garlic absorb the spices. This step builds a solid base of flavor.

Step 3: Combine the beans and broth
Pour in the chicken broth and one and a half cans of drained white beans. Use an immersion blender or mash them slightly with a potato masher. This helps thicken the chili without using flour or cornstarch.

Step 4: Add the remaining ingredients
Add the shredded chicken and the remaining half can of whole beans. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a low simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.This recipe goes hand-in-hand with White Chicken Chili Slow Cooker_ for a perfect combo.

Step 5: Stir in cream cheese
Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and stir it into the pot until melted and fully incorporated. This adds a creamy texture that gives the chili its signature richness.

Step 6: Final touches
Right before serving, add a splash of lime juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

White chicken chili is wonderfully versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand in your pantry.

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly. It’s flavorful, tender, and saves you the step of cooking and shredding.

Add heat or keep it mild
Green chilies are typically mild, but if you like it spicy, add a diced jalapeño or increase the cayenne. For a kid-friendly version, leave out any hot spices and offer hot sauce on the side.

Make it dairy-free
Omit the cream cheese and use full-fat coconut milk instead for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that adds a subtle sweetness.

Use different beans
While great northern beans are traditional, cannellini or navy beans also work well. Each type brings a slightly different texture and taste.

Slow cooker option
Combine all ingredients except cream cheese in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4. Stir in the cream cheese just before serving.

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Nutritional Information

White chicken chili is both nourishing and filling. It provides a solid source of lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and essential nutrients.

To make the dish healthier, opt for low-fat cream cheese or skip it entirely and use mashed beans for creaminess. Homemade broth also helps control sodium levels.

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Serving Suggestions

White chicken chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation and side dishes. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:

Top it off
Add shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions also adds brightness.

Serve with bread or rice
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side of white or brown rice makes the meal more filling. Cornbread is another classic pairing.

Make it a chili bar
For gatherings, set up a chili bar with a pot of white chicken chili and bowls of toppings so everyone can build their own bowl.

Pair with a crisp salad
A fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chili.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze white chicken chili?
Yes, this chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

How long does white chicken chili last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the chicken for extra beans or even cooked quinoa. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cream cheese or use a plant-based version.

What kind of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They shred easily and soak up the chili flavor well. Leftover roast chicken is also a great option.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients, such as broth and cream cheese, are certified gluten-free.

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Conclusion

White chicken chili is more than just a variation of a classic comfort food. It’s a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying meal that comes together with minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have on hand. The balance of spice, richness, and wholesome ingredients makes it a dish you’ll return to over and over again, especially when cooler weather rolls in.