Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Looking for a warm and hearty weeknight dinner idea? This Creamy White Chicken Chili is packed with tender chicken, hearty white beans, green chilies, and bold spices all in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies (mild or hot)
2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Remove chicken and shred once cooled.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
In the same pot, sauté diced onion for about 4 minutes until soft.
Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and optional smoked paprika. Cook for 1 more minute.
3. Simmer the Chili:
Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to enhance flavor.
4. Make It Creamy (Optional):
Lower heat and stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt and shredded cheese until melted.
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
To Serve:
Ladle hot white chicken chili into bowls.
Top with chopped cilantro and a fresh squeeze of lime juice.
Serve with tortilla chips, warm cornbread, or fluffy white rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tips:
For thicker chili, mash some beans before adding them in.
Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut!
Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Family Dinner, Healthy Comfort Food, Meal Prep Ideas, High Protein Meals