This tasty creamy white chicken chili is a creamy, hearty, and comforting family dinner that you can whip up in just 35 minutes! Throw on some fresh toppings, and you’ve got a delicious chili that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite.
Creamy White Chicken Chili
Creamy White Chicken Chili
For a meal that’s both hearty and comforting, Creamy White Chicken Chili is an excellent choice. This dish features chunks of chicken, white beans, and green chilies, all simmered together in a thick, creamy broth. Garnished with sliced green onions, a sprig of parsley, and golden-brown croutons, it’s a visually appealing and delicious meal.
A Symphony of Flavors
The creamy broth is the star of this dish, providing a rich and savory base that complements the tender chicken and beans. The green chilies add a mild heat, while the fresh green onions and parsley bring a burst of freshness. The croutons add a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day, a dish to impress guests, or a hearty dinner for the family, Creamy White Chicken Chili fits the bill. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with sides like cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Easy to Prepare
Despite its rich flavors, this dish is relatively easy to prepare. The key is to cook the chicken and beans until they are tender and the broth has thickened to a creamy consistency. The addition of fresh herbs and croutons enhances the overall flavor and presentation.
A Family Favorite
This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its rich, creamy broth and tender chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can enjoy more time at the table and less time in the kitchen.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- Onion and garlic: These give a great aroma. I prefer Vidalia onions, but yellow onions work well too. I mince the garlic using a garlic press.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing.
- Chicken: We’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs or ground chicken/turkey also work.
- Broth: Chicken broth enhances the savory flavor.
- Green chilies: You can find these chopped in small cans in the Mexican or international aisle of the grocery store. I chose mild for this recipe.
- Dried oregano, ground cumin, and chili powder: This is my signature seasoning mix. Note that most standard chili powders are not very spicy.
- White beans: I used standard cannellini beans, but great northern beans or navy beans also work well.
- Cream cheese: This ingredient adds richness. I always go for the Philly brand.
Substitutions and Variations:
- If you want more heat, try using spicy green chilies or add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeno peppers.
- While cream cheese adds a nice tang, you can use heavy cream instead. Start with 1/2 cup and add lime juice for tanginess. Sour cream is also a good alternative.
- Add a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens.
- This recipe makes four generous portions (or six smaller ones with toppings), so consider doubling it for more servings.
Favorite Toppings:
- Fresh lime juice or lime wedges for acidity.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tang.
- Chopped avocado or guacamole.
- Tortilla strips or chips for added crunch.
- Fresh cilantro, scallions, and sliced jalapenos for flavor.
- Shredded cheese, like Tex-Mex blend or Monterey Jack.
Leftovers and Storage:
- This white chicken chili makes great leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- You can freeze leftovers, though the texture may change due to the dairy. It will still taste great.
Be sure to check out these other great chicken recipes!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Soup
Creamy White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 chicken breasts cut into small bite-size pieces
- 2 14 ounces cans of white beans drained
- 2 4 ounces cans of mild green chilies with juices
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 4 ounces cream cheese 1/2 block of Philly softened
- Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings (optional, to taste):
- Lime juice avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, etc.
Instructions
- Put olive oil in a big pot on medium heat. Cook the onion for 5-7 minutes until it's a bit brown for more flavor.
- Add the chicken and cook until it's not pink on the outside.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Put in all the other ingredients except for cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes, microwave for 30 seconds to soften, then stir it in. Keep cooking for another 5 minutes until the cream cheese mixes well and warms up.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve it and add toppings as you like.
Notes
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Creamy White Chicken Chili