How to Make White Chicken Chili at Home – Easy & Delicious Recipe

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White Chicken Chili Recipe: A Creamy and Flavorful Comfort Dish

Introduction

White Chicken Chili is a delicious, creamy, and slightly spicy alternative to traditional chili. Made with tender chicken, white beans, and flavorful spices, this comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a game-day meal. Unlike traditional beef chili, white chicken chili has a lighter, creamier base with a perfect balance of heat and richness.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Creaminess and Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Lime wedges
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and season with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  2. Add the white beans and diced green chilies, stirring everything together.
  3. Cover and let the chili simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

  1. Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream and heavy cream (or cream cheese).
  2. Mix well until the chili reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
  3. Stir in shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Ladle the white chicken chili into bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.
  3. Serve with tortilla chips or warm bread on the side.

Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili

  • For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken.
  • Make it spicier by adding more cayenne pepper or extra diced jalapeños.
  • Use a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients (except dairy and toppings) and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the dairy before serving.
  • For a thicker consistency, mash some of the white beans before adding them to the pot.

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