Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings and warm you up on a chilly day? Look no further than this Creamy White Chicken Chili recipe. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a creamy broth, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this comforting and crowd-pleasing dish. Stick around for tips, tricks, and variations to make it your own!

What is Creamy White Chicken Chili?
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a rich and savory twist on traditional chili, made with white beans, chicken, and a blend of spices that deliver a mild yet flavorful kick. Unlike the typical red chili that uses tomatoes and red beans, this version is distinguished by its creamy, white base, which comes from the addition of cream cheese and heavy cream. The result is a smooth, comforting dish that's perfect for cold weather or when you're in the mood for something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients List for Creamy White Chicken Chili
Before you start cooking, it's essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 onions, diced: The onions add a sweet and savory base to the chili.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Garlic enhances the flavor with its aromatic and pungent taste.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: This adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 2 pounds cooked chicken, cubed or shredded: You can use cooked chicken breasts or even a shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 32 ounces low sodium chicken broth: The broth forms the base of the chili, providing depth and flavor.
- 4 cans great northern white beans, drained and rinsed: These beans add texture and a creamy consistency to the chili.
- 3 cans diced green chiles, drained: Green chiles bring a mild heat and a hint of tanginess.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: Pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the other spices.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Cumin offers an earthy, warm flavor that's key to chili dishes.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Oregano gives the chili a herbaceous note, adding complexity.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For those who like a little heat, cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: This spice blend adds depth and a bit of heat.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Cilantro provides a fresh, vibrant flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chili.
- 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, cubed: The cream cheese makes the chili creamy and smooth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and thickness to the chili.
Optional Toppings:
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Jalapeños
- Cilantro
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Avocado
These toppings allow you to customize your bowl of chili, adding crunch, creaminess, or extra heat as you prefer.
Substitutions and Variations
Cooking is all about flexibility and making a recipe work for you. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this Creamy White Chicken Chili recipe:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans or tofu for protein.
- Spicier Chili: If you like your chili with more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the mix.
- Low-Calorie Option: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based milk alternative like almond or coconut milk to cut down on calories.
- Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth, or let the chili simmer longer to evaporate some of the liquid.
- Additional Vegetables: Add corn, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and add more texture to your chili.
- Different Beans: If you can’t find great northern beans, you can substitute with cannellini beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Creamy White Chicken Chili.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the onions and mince the garlic. If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it and then cube or shred it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices and Chicken:
- Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Add the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to coat the chicken with the spices.
4. Incorporate the Broth and Beans:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans and green chiles to the pot.
5. Simmer the Chili:
- Let the chili simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the Creaminess:
- Stir in the cubed cream cheese and continue to stir until it’s completely melted and the chili is creamy.
- Add the heavy cream and fresh cilantro, stirring to combine.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
How to Cook Creamy White Chicken Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this chili is straightforward, but there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate your dish from good to great:
- Layering Flavors: By sautéing the onions and garlic first, then adding the spices, you build a depth of flavor that makes the chili more complex and satisfying.
- Using Fresh Chicken: While rotisserie chicken is convenient, cooking your own chicken allows you to control the seasoning from start to finish.
- Slow Cooking Option: This recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients (except the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cilantro) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cilantro just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chili may seem easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome:
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them initially, as they can become dry. Rotisserie chicken is already cooked, so it only needs to be heated through.
- Not Draining the Beans: Failing to drain and rinse the beans can result in a thicker, starchier chili. Always rinse your beans to keep the texture smooth.
- Skipping the Lime Juice: The lime juice adds a much-needed acidity that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Don’t skip it!
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your Creamy White Chicken Chili can make it even more appealing:
- Serve with a Side of Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic pairing with chili. Its sweetness complements the savory flavors of the chili.
- Use Colorful Toppings: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, slices of avocado, and bright red jalapeños not only add flavor but also make the dish look vibrant.
- Serve in a Bread Bowl: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the chili in hollowed-out bread bowls.
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili
This chili is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Main Dish: Serve it in deep bowls with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips.
- Over Rice: For a more filling meal, serve the chili over a bed of steamed rice.
- As a Dip: Use the chili as a thick dip for tortilla chips, perfect for a party appetizer.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy White Chicken Chili
Get creative with how you present this dish:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprig of cilantro or a few slices of jalapeño on top adds a fresh touch.
- Use a Variety of Bowls: Serve the chili in rustic, ceramic bowls for a homely feel, or opt for modern, sleek bowls for a more contemporary look.
- Top with Shredded Cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded cheese on top adds a melty, gooey finish that everyone will love.
Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe Tips
To ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, add more!
- Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
- Freeze Leftovers: This chili freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients (except the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cilantro) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cilantro just before serving.
Q: Can I use other types of beans? A: Absolutely! Cannellini beans or navy beans are great substitutes if you don’t have great northern beans.
Q: How long does the chili last in the fridge? A: This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this chili dairy-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Q: How can I thicken the chili? A: If you want a thicker consistency, let the chili simmer uncovered for a longer period, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pot.
Conclusion
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a delightful and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, making a quick weeknight dinner, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. With its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try out the recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking!
PrintCreamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Creamy White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, white beans, and green chiles in a rich, spicy broth. The recipe is seasoned with cumin, oregano, and chili powder, then made creamy with cream cheese and heavy cream. Serve with your favorite toppings like tortilla chips, jalapeños, or avocado for a deliciously comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup/Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 onions, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds cooked chicken, cubed (or 2 lbs cooked shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 32 ounces low sodium chicken broth
- 4 cans great northern white beans (15.5 ounce cans), fully drained and rinsed
- 3 cans diced green chiles (4 ounce cans), drained
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Optional toppings: tortilla chips or strips, jalapeños, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or other toppings as desired.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cubed or shredded chicken to the pot, followed by lime juice, chicken broth, beans, green chiles, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and chili powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Stir in the cubed cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Add heavy cream and fresh cilantro, stirring until the chili is creamy and heated through.
- Serve hot with your choice of optional toppings.
Notes
- This recipe can be made in advance and reheated for an easy meal.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper and chili powder.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
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