If you’ve ever found yourself craving a cozy, flavor-packed meal that brings pure comfort with every spoonful, you’ll fall head-over-heels for this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe. It’s hearty, satisfying, and positively loaded with tender chicken, white beans, a touch of spice, and a swirl of rich creaminess that wraps you up like your favorite blanket. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, this chili is a guaranteed hit—filling your kitchen with fragrant aromas and making seconds absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe is how it transforms humble, pantry-friendly ingredients into something extraordinary. Each component has a job to do—whether building the creamy body, adding just enough punch, or giving those beautiful pops of color.
- Olive oil: A drizzle to start things off and sauté your aromatics to tender perfection.
- Onion: Diced fine for a softly sweet, savory backbone.
- Garlic cloves: For bold, aromatic depth—don’t skimp!
- Diced green chilies: These little guys pack mild heat and bright flavor.
- Ground cumin: Earthy and warm; indispensable here.
- Dried oregano: Lends just the right herbaceous lift.
- Chili powder: Adds subtle heat and color, balancing the richness.
- Ground coriander: Brings the slightest citrus note to keep things fresh.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch for mild warmth and zing.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, and its tender shreds soak up all the chili’s flavor.
- White beans: Creamy, protein-rich, and perfect for this soup; rinse well for the cleanest taste.
- Chicken broth: The liquid gold that brings the chili together; use low-sodium if you like to control the salt.
- Frozen or canned corn: Adds sweetness and bursts of texture—so simple yet so good.
- Cream cheese (softened): This is the secret to supreme creaminess; be sure it’s softened so it melts in smoothly.
- Sour cream: For subtle tang and an extra rich mouthfeel.
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a hint of creaminess or extra spice—your call!
- Juice of 1 lime: Never skip this; it brightens the whole chili and balances the flavors.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish): Finishing touch of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating that olive oil in a large pot over medium heat—your kitchen’s about to smell amazing! Toss in your diced onion first, letting it turn soft and golden for 3 to 4 minutes. Once it looks tender, add the garlic. Give everything a quick stir for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant and fills the whole space with irresistible promise.
Step 2: Add Flavor with Spices and Chilies
Now, introduce the green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Give them a minute in the hot pan, stirring constantly—this short step unlocks the spices’ best flavors. You’ll notice hints of smokiness and tang coming together, which truly sets the foundation for a standout Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe.
Step 3: Build the Base with Chicken, Beans, Broth, and Corn
Immediately add the shredded chicken, white beans, chicken broth, and corn. Gently stir everything together and wait for the mixture to reach a steady simmer. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes; this is where the magic happens as all the flavors start mingling and developing the chili’s crave-worthy heartiness.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Reduce your heat to low, then stir in the softened cream cheese. Be patient and keep stirring until it has fully melted and the broth turns luscious and creamy—this step gives you that dreamy, velvet-smooth texture the Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe is known for. Next, fold in the sour cream and shredded cheese, continuing to stir until everything is perfectly combined and glossy.
Step 5: Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Now, take the pot off the heat and squeeze in the fresh lime juice. This last step brightens everything and cuts through the richness, making each bite balanced and delicious. Ladle your chili into bowls, top with chopped fresh cilantro, and get ready for one of the coziest meals you’ve had all year!
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The toppings are half the fun! Sprinkle on extra cheese or scatter some crunchy tortilla chips over each bowl for added bite. A dollop of sour cream or a handful of chopped fresh cilantro instantly lifts the bowl, both in flavor and in looks. For spice lovers, a few thinly sliced jalapeños are always welcome.
Side Dishes
This chili is so robust that a simple side is all you need. A slice of warm, crusty bread or a batch of fluffy cornbread for dipping is absolutely perfect. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette adds balance to the Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful! Serve your chili in bread bowls or miniature mugs for a party. It’s also fantastic spooned over baked potatoes or tortilla chips as a bold, creamy nacho topping. For family nights, arrange a “chili bar” with bowls of all the garnishes so everyone can customize their own ideal bowl of Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to. Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps well for 3 to 4 days and maintains all its creamy delight.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe! Cool it thoroughly before portioning into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to three months. The creamy base might separate a little on thawing, but a good stir while reheating brings it right back to life.
Reheating
Gently reheat your chili in a saucepan over low-to-medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick. Microwaving works too, but do it in short bursts and stir in between to ensure even heating and a smooth, creamy texture every time.
FAQs
Can I make this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all the ingredients (except the dairy, lime, and garnishes) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, then stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese at the end before serving with lime and toppings.
What type Soup
Any canned white beans work, but cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans are the creamiest and hold their shape beautifully in this chili. Just make sure to rinse and drain them for the best texture and flavor.
How can I make this chili spicier?
For extra heat, add extra green chilies, toss in a diced jalapeño, or include a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Pepper Jack cheese also adds a subtle kick to the Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe that spice lovers appreciate.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up post-holiday turkey. The flavors are just as wonderful, and the switch is seamless—just shred the turkey and add as you would the chicken.
Is this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! There are no wheat-based ingredients in this recipe, so it’s naturally gluten-free. Always check labels on store-bought broth and canned items to be 100 percent sure if you have gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a go-to comfort food that’s easy, full of flavor, and universally crowd-pleasing, this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe is a game-changer. Gather your ingredients, follow a few simple steps, and let this creamy, zesty chili become a regular favorite at your family table. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!
Print
Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy White Chicken Chili, a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili. This creamy version is packed with tender chicken, white beans, and a blend of spices, all simmered together in a rich, creamy broth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen or canned corn
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
- juice of 1 lime
- chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, chicken broth, and corn. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the sour cream and shredded cheese, stirring until fully combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and additional cheese or tortilla chips if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- Adjust spice level with extra chilies or hot sauce.
- This soup thickens as it sits—add a splash of broth to reheat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
