Are you searching for a comforting, easy-to-make, and incredibly delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili recipe is exactly what you need. With a delightful blend of spices, tender chicken, creamy beans, and the perfect kick from Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Keep reading to discover how to make this mouthwatering chili that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What is Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?
Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cooler weather or anytime you need a comforting meal. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a variety of beans, corn, tomatoes, and green chilis, all cooked together in a rich, creamy broth. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade chili in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.
Ingredients for Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
To create this delicious Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts: These will be the protein base for your chili, becoming incredibly tender after cooking in the Instant Pot.
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed: These add a hearty texture and a slight earthiness to the chili.
- 15 oz can white beans, drained: White beans bring creaminess and body to the dish, making it extra comforting.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 15 oz can corn with juice: Corn contributes a natural sweetness and a pop of texture to the chili.
- 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their juice): These bring a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy beans and tender chicken.
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock: This forms the liquid base for the chili, helping to blend all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste: Adds a mild heat and rich chili flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder: Cumin gives the chili a warm, earthy undertone that’s essential to the dish’s flavor profile.
- 0.4 oz packet ranch dip or dressing mix: This adds a tangy, herby flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chili.
- 8 oz package cream cheese, cut into 6 pieces: The cream cheese melts into the chili, creating a rich, creamy texture that ties all the flavors together.
Optional Toppings and Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, consider these optional toppings and serving suggestions:
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, for garnish: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich chili.
- 1 avocado, diced, for garnish: Avocado adds creaminess and a subtle, buttery flavor.
- Tortilla chips or baked potatoes to serve: These make for a perfect accompaniment, providing a satisfying crunch or a starchy base to soak up all the delicious chili.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Protein Alternatives: If you’re out of chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with boneless chicken thighs, which will yield an even richer flavor. For a lighter option, consider using turkey breast instead.
- Bean Varieties: While black and white beans are the standard for this recipe, you can swap them out for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas depending on your preference.
- Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more beans or tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeno for those who like it extra hot. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and opt for mild Rotel tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is straightforward and quick, thanks to the efficiency of the Instant Pot. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time.

- Prep the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and cutting the cream cheese into smaller pieces. Drain and rinse the black beans and white beans, and set them aside.
- Layer the Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom. Then, layer the black beans, white beans, chopped onion, and corn (including the juice). Add the Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis on top, followed by the chicken broth.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin powder, and the ranch dip or dressing mix evenly over the ingredients.
- Cook on High Pressure: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then perform a quick release to vent the remaining steam.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. The chicken should be tender and easy to pull apart.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the cream cheese pieces. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is creamy and well combined.
- Simmer: If the chili appears too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth and let it simmer on the sauté function for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
How to Cook Instant Pot White Chicken Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preparing the Instant Pot: Ensure your Instant Pot is clean and dry before starting. Gather all your ingredients and have them prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
- Layering for Flavor: Begin by layering the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Instant Pot. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. The beans, onions, corn, and tomatoes should be layered on top, with the spices evenly distributed to ensure a balanced flavor throughout the chili.
- Pressure Cooking: Cooking the chili on high pressure for 15 minutes is key to achieving tender chicken and well-blended flavors. Be patient during the natural release phase; this helps to lock in the moisture and flavor of the chicken.
- Final Steps: Once the chicken is shredded and the cream cheese is added, ensure you stir thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy texture. If you find the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth and simmer until it’s just right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Not layering properly: Ensure the chicken is at the bottom of the pot. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the dreaded “burn” notice on your Instant Pot.
- Skipping the natural release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
- Not fully melting the cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully melted and mixed into the chili to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Overcooking the chili: Be mindful not to overcook, as this can lead to dry chicken and mushy beans. Stick to the recommended cooking time and use the natural release for best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving a delicious dish like Instant Pot White Chicken Chili. Here are some tips to make your meal look as good as it tastes:
- Garnish Generously: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and diced avocado over the top of each bowl of chili. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that enhances the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Offer tortilla chips or serve the chili over a baked potato for added texture and variety.
- Use Bright Bowls: Serving the chili in brightly colored bowls can make the dish look even more inviting, contrasting nicely with the creamy white chili.
How to Serve Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
To serve Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. A handful of chopped cilantro and diced avocado can brighten the dish, while a squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing tang. Serve it alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast or over a baked potato for a more filling meal. This chili also pairs well with a simple green salad or some warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the delicious broth.
Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
- Layered Look: Serve the chili in clear glass bowls to show off the layers of beans, corn, and chicken.
- Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with options like sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and jalapeño slices, allowing everyone to customize their own bowl.
- Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the chili in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The chili soaks into the bread, creating a deliciously soft and flavorful bite.
Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe Tips
To ensure your Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a success, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions and high-quality chicken breasts can make a big difference in the final flavor of your chili.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: The amount of chili powder and cumin can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go and make adjustments.
- Make Ahead: This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors often improve as they meld together, making leftovers even tastier.
- Freeze for Later: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick meal on a busy day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes to ensure they cook through.
Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese? A: If you prefer, you can substitute the cream cheese with an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Just add it at the end and stir until well combined.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot? A: Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in the cream cheese at the end.
Q: Is this recipe spicy? A: The level of spice in this chili is moderate. The Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis add a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder or adding a jalapeno.
Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: To make this recipe dairy-free, omit the cream cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. You can also use a dairy-free ranch dressing mix if needed.
Conclusion
Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or serving guests at a gathering, this chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to experiment with the optional toppings and serving suggestions to make it your own! So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this hearty, delicious chili tonight.
PrintInstant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe
This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili recipe combines tender chicken breasts, black beans, white beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes with green chilis, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. With the addition of ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and creamy cheese, this dish is rich in flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner. Top with cilantro, avocado, and serve with tortilla chips or baked potatoes for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking (Instant Pot)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz can white beans, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 15 oz can corn with juice
- 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their juice)
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock
- 1 tsp chili powder, or to taste
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 0.4 oz packet ranch dip or dressing mix
- 8 oz package cream cheese, cut into 6 pieces
Optional Toppings and Serving Suggestions:
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- 1 avocado, diced, for garnish
- Tortilla chips or baked potatoes to serve
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
- Add black beans, white beans, chopped onion, corn with juice, Rotel tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and ranch dip mix to the pot.
- Place the cream cheese pieces on top.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them, and return them to the pot, stirring to combine with the rest of the chili.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro and avocado, along with tortilla chips or baked potatoes.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the chili powder or add jalapeños.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less cream cheese as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
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