White Chicken Chili

why make this recipe

White Chicken Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with creamy flavors and spices. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional chili, offering a unique twist that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table.

how to make White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
  2. Stir in shredded chicken, white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Stir in sour cream and cheese (if using) until melted.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

how to serve White Chicken Chili

Serve White Chicken Chili hot in bowls. You can add garnishes like fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of cheese, or even some crunchy tortilla chips on top for added flavor and texture. Pair it with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal.

how to store White Chicken Chili

To store White Chicken Chili, let it cool completely. Place the chili in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

tips to make White Chicken Chili

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; add more chili powder for extra heat.
  • For a thicker chili, you can mash some of the white beans during cooking.

variation

You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. You can also add bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken for convenience. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the chili.

Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! White Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe has a mild spice level due to the green chilies. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños.

White Chicken Chili

A comforting and hearty dish combining tender chicken with creamy flavors and spices, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
  • 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust for extra heat if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
  2. Stir in shredded chicken, white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Stir in sour cream and cheese (if using) until melted.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Serve with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.