Creamy white chicken chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal. Unlike traditional chili made with tomatoes, this version is rich and creamy, thanks to ingredients like white beans, cream cheese, and broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re craving something hearty yet not too heavy, this recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Creamy White Chicken Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (from about 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs)
• 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced jalapeños
• Avocado slices
• Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
• Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Jalapeño and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), ground cumin, dried oregano, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken and Beans

1. Add Chicken and Beans: Add shredded chicken and drained white beans to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
2. Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Creamy Base

1. Add Cream Cheese: Add cubed cream cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and incorporates into the chili, creating a creamy texture.
2. Stir in Sour Cream: Stir in sour cream or plain Greek yogurt until fully combined. This adds additional creaminess and tang to the chili.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You can also adjust the spiciness by adding more cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
2. Add Fresh Cilantro: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and flavor.
3. Serve: Ladle the creamy white chicken chili into bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chili. Optionally, serve with sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips or chips.

Tips for Success

• Chicken: Use cooked shredded chicken, which can be prepared ahead of time or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature so it melts easily into the chili.
• Consistency: If the chili becomes too thick upon standing, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen if necessary.

Conclusion

Creamy white chicken chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili, offering a creamy and comforting meal that’s perfect for cooler days. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, and flavorful spices, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy it with your favorite garnishes for a satisfying and delicious meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.