Creamy White Chicken Chili (Print)

Rich and creamy chili with tender chicken, white beans, and flavorful spices for a comforting meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
05 - 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced

→ Beans & Broth

07 - 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Dairy

09 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
10 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1/2 tsp chili powder
14 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
15 - 1/4 tsp ground coriander
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnishes (optional)

17 - Chopped fresh cilantro
18 - Sliced green onions
19 - Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
20 - Lime wedges

# Instructions:

01 - Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly golden; set aside.
03 - Add onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño to the pot. Cook 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
04 - Incorporate diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, and coriander. Stir to evenly coat the vegetables.
05 - Add drained beans and pour in chicken broth. Return seared chicken to the pot.
06 - Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
07 - Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the pot.
08 - Stir in cream cheese until melted; add heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed.
09 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro, green onions, shredded cheese, and lime wedges as desired.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Rich and creamy texture without being heavy
  • Easy to make in one pot
02 -
  • Use certified gluten-free broth to keep the recipe gluten-free.
  • Mashing some beans will naturally thicken the chili without extra ingredients.
03 -
  • Substitute rotisserie chicken for a shortcut—just add it at the shredding step.
  • Pair with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
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