There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of White Chicken Chili on a chilly evening, and this recipe promises both comfort and flavor in every spoonful. It’s creamy, a little zesty, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it one of those rare dishes that’s easy, satisfying, and utterly crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting game night or simply looking for a nourishing weeknight meal, this chili has become my go-to favorite for its soul-warming qualities and irresistible taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this White Chicken Chili as much as I do!

White Chicken Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get cooking, let’s appreciate the simple lineup of ingredients that transform into something unforgettable. Each one brings its own special role to the dish, building layers of texture, color, and flavor that make this White Chicken Chili anything but ordinary.

Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, bringing out all the beautiful aromatics.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth that blends perfectly with the spices.
Garlic: Fragrant and savory, garlic lifts every bite with bold flavor.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that stays tender and juicy in the chili.
White beans: Creamy texture and heartiness—cannellini or Great Northern beans both shine here.
Diced green chilies: Mild heat and tang keep the chili lively without overpowering.
Chicken broth: The backbone of the soup, rich and savory for a flavorful base.
Ground cumin: Earthy spice that’s classic in chili and perfectly complements the chicken.
Dried oregano: Herbal and slightly peppery, it adds complexity to the broth.
Chili powder: A mild smoky heat that ties all the flavors together.
Ground coriander: Subtle citrusy notes set this chili apart from the usual.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for balancing all the other flavors.
Frozen corn kernels: Sweet pops of color and crunch in every bowl.
Fresh cilantro: Added at the end for a final burst of freshness!
Lime juice: A bright, zesty finish that wakes up the entire dish.
Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (for serving): Melty, creamy, and pure comfort.
Sour cream (for serving): Rich and tangy, it mellows out the spices beautifully.
Sliced jalapeños (for serving, optional): Perfect for those who like an extra kick.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a big, sturdy pot over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and garlic, letting them cook and soften for about 5 minutes. This is where the magic begins—the sizzling aromas will have everyone peeking into the kitchen! Sautéing the onion and garlic gently brings out their sweetness and creates a flavorful foundation for your White Chicken Chili.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, toss in the diced chicken breast and cook until the pieces lose their raw pink color, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the chicken cooks evenly and picks up every bit of those delicious aromatics clinging to the bottom of the pot. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy and tender, ready to absorb the chili spices.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

It’s time for the main event! Stir in the white beans, diced green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Everything melds together in the pot, and your kitchen will soon smell like pure heaven. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it all simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time is key—it develops all those cozy, comforting flavors we crave in White Chicken Chili.

Step 4: Add Corn and Finish

Five minutes before the end of the simmer, stir in the frozen corn. The sweet kernels add brightness and a splash of color, contrasting beautifully with the creamy beans and tender chicken. Right before serving, turn off the heat and add the freshly chopped cilantro and a big squeeze of lime juice. This fresh finish makes every spoonful pop.

Step 5: Serve and Top

Ladle your steaming White Chicken Chili into bowls and crown each serving with shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling bold. Each bowl is a feast for the eyes and the palate!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

Garnishes

The beauty of White Chicken Chili is how customizable every bowl can be with the right garnishes. Sprinkle on extra shredded cheese for a gooey melt, swirl in a spoonful of sour cream for tang, or channel your inner spice-lover with plenty of sliced jalapeños. Don’t forget a handful of fresh cilantro or extra lime wedges for an added zing—these garnishes let everyone tailor their bowl to perfection.

Side Dishes

Serve your chili with warm, crusty bread, crunchy tortilla chips, or fluffy cornbread—it’s hard to go wrong! A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette lightens up the meal and adds a fresh contrast to the rich, savory chili. Sides like carrot sticks or celery sticks are fun for dipping or just snacking between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or want to make dinner extra special, try serving White Chicken Chili in small bread bowls or mason jars for a rustic touch. Set up a chili bar with bowls of all the toppings so family and friends can create their own masterpiece. You can even use leftovers as a filling for baked potatoes or rolled up in tortillas for next-day lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

White Chicken Chili stays delicious for days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Let the chili cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen, so it’s even better for quick lunches or dinners the next day!

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully, perfect for busy weeks or unexpected guests. Ladle cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and taste.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your White Chicken Chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir often and add a splash of water or broth if it thickens up too much. For single servings, the microwave works just fine—just cover loosely and heat, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fabulous shortcut that saves time and adds deep flavor. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it with the beans, chilies, and broth—skip the step where you cook the raw chicken.

What kind of white beans work best for White Chicken Chili?

Both cannellini and Great Northern beans are fantastic choices. Cannellini beans are extra creamy, while Great Northern are a bit firmer. You can even mix them for extra texture and creaminess!

How spicy is this chili?

This recipe is fairly mild as written thanks to the mild green chilies, but you can easily turn up the heat. Add more chili powder, fresh or pickled jalapeños, or a douse of hot sauce for those who crave an extra kick.

Is it possible to make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?

You can definitely adapt this recipe for slow cooker convenience. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add everything except the cilantro and lime juice to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, then finish with cilantro and lime right before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! The chili itself contains no dairy, so just skip the cheese and sour cream toppings or swap in your favorite plant-based alternatives. You’ll still enjoy a bowlful that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is one of those rare recipes that brings everyone to the table eager and happy, every time. It’s hearty, easy, and comforting—a true weeknight winner! Give it a try and see why it’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen too.

White Chicken Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Warm up with a bowl of comforting White Chicken Chili, a flavorful twist on traditional chili. This easy stovetop recipe is hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

For the White Chicken Chili:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime

For Serving:

Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Add ingredients: Stir in white beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
Finish the chili: Add frozen corn, cook for 5 more minutes. Stir in cilantro and lime juice.
Serve: Top with cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños if desired.