Description
A creamy, hearty, and flavorful twist on classic chili. Tender shredded chicken, white beans, and green chiles come together in a comforting, cozy dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup frozen or canned corn (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Finish:
4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sliced jalapeños
Lime wedges
Crushed tortilla chips
Shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook 1–2 minutes to release aromas.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Beans
Mix in shredded chicken and white beans. Ensure everything is coated with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Pour in Broth
Slowly add chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Add corn if using. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer Until Creamy
Bring chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broth will thicken slightly.
Step 6: Add Creamy Ingredients
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly for a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, lime wedges, tortilla chips, or shredded cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds roasted flavor.
Simmer Slowly: Develops depth and naturally thickens chili.
Balance Creaminess: Add cream cheese gradually and whisk to avoid lumps.
Adjust Heat: Skip cayenne for mild; add more chili powder or jalapeños for heat.
Texture Matters: Mash a few beans before adding creamy ingredients to thicken naturally.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Soup
- Method: Stove-top (or slow cooker/Instant Pot for variations)
- Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 heaping bowl (approx. 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: White Chicken Chili, creamy chicken chili, comforting chili recipe, white bean chili