If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s also quick and easy to make, look no further than this White Chicken Chili recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests with minimal effort, this chili is a flavorful blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, and a rich, savory broth. Read on to discover how to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen!

What is White Chicken Chili?
White Chicken Chili is a popular variation of traditional chili that replaces the usual tomato base with a creamy broth and swaps out red meat for tender, shredded chicken. It's a lighter option compared to the traditional red chili, but still packed with flavor thanks to the blend of spices, green chilies, and other ingredients. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a milder, creamier version of chili, without sacrificing the robust flavors that make chili so beloved.
Ingredients List for White Chicken Chili
To make this delicious White Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: This adds a mild sweetness and a foundational flavor to the chili.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Garlic brings a fragrant depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the chili.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth: The base of the chili, providing a savory liquid that melds all the ingredients together.
- 1 (7 oz) can diced green chilies: These add a mild heat and a bit of tang, essential for that classic chili flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoon cumin: A key spice that gives the chili its warm, earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a slight sweetness and a deep red color to the spice blend.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a herbaceous note that complements the other spices.
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander: Offers a light, citrusy flavor that brightens the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a bit of heat, making the chili slightly spicy.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 (8 oz) pkg Neufchatel cheese (aka light cream cheese), cut into small cubes: This is the secret to the chili's creamy, luxurious texture.
- 1 ¼ cup frozen or fresh corn: Adds a sweet, crunchy element to the chili.
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans: These beans are creamy and mild, perfect for absorbing the chili's flavors.
- 2 ½ cups shredded cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a delicious, savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the lime juice.
- Tortilla chips or strips, Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado for serving (optional): These toppings add texture, creaminess, and a satisfying crunch.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about White Chicken Chili is its flexibility. You can easily adapt the recipe to fit your dietary needs, taste preferences, or what you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with an extra can of cannellini beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper or add jalapeños for more heat, or omit the cayenne if you prefer a milder chili.
- Cheese Options: If you can’t find Neufchatel cheese, you can use regular cream cheese or even mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.
- Beans: If you don’t have cannellini beans, great Northern beans or navy beans are excellent substitutes.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the chili for extra nutrition and flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make this comforting dish? Here’s how to prepare White Chicken Chili step by step:

- Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it's soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, diced green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Add the Neufchatel cheese cubes into the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the broth, creating a creamy base for the chili.
- Add the Corn and Beans: Stir in the corn and cannellini beans, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the chili.
- Add the Chicken: Finally, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Allow the chili to simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finishing Touches: Once the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
How to Cook White Chicken Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking White Chicken Chili is straightforward, even if you’re a beginner. The key is to allow enough time for the flavors to meld together as the chili simmers. Here’s a recap of the process:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out all your spices and other ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Sauté and Build the Base: Cooking the onions and garlic first releases their natural flavors, which form the base of your chili. Adding the spices directly to the pot allows them to toast slightly, which enhances their flavors.
- Create the Creamy Base: Melting the Neufchatel cheese into the broth creates the signature creamy texture of White Chicken Chili. Stirring constantly helps to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer to Perfection: Letting the chili simmer gives the ingredients time to meld together, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
- Finish with Freshness: Adding lime juice and cilantro at the end of cooking brightens up the chili, cutting through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like White Chicken Chili can have a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not Sautéing the Aromatics Long Enough: If you don’t cook the onions and garlic properly, they can have a raw, harsh taste. Make sure they are soft and fragrant before moving on to the next step.
- Skipping the Cheese: The Neufchatel cheese is what gives this chili its creamy texture. If you skip it or don’t let it melt fully, the chili won’t have the same luxurious mouthfeel.
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become tough and dry. Add it to the pot just long enough to heat through and absorb the flavors of the chili.
Serving and Presentation Tips
White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your chili:
- Toppings Galore: Offer a variety of toppings like shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. These add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Serve with Crunch: Tortilla chips or strips are a must! They add a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy chili.
- Bread on the Side: A warm piece of cornbread or a soft dinner roll pairs wonderfully with this chili, perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
How to Serve White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is best served hot, straight from the pot. Here are some ideas for serving it:
- In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small loaf of bread and ladle the chili into it for a fun and hearty presentation.
- With a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad complements the rich and creamy chili, balancing the meal.
- In Individual Bowls: Serve the chili in individual bowls with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own.
Presentation Ideas for White Chicken Chili
Presentation can make a simple dish like White Chicken Chili feel special. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top of the chili adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Use Colorful Bowls: Serve the chili in vibrant bowls to make the creamy white chili stand out.
- Top with Avocado Roses: For a fancy touch, slice avocado thinly and arrange it into a rose shape on top of the chili.
White Chicken Chili Recipe Tips
To make the best White Chicken Chili, keep these tips in mind:
- Use High-Quality Chicken: Using a flavorful, moist rotisserie chicken can make a big difference in the overall taste of the chili.
- Don’t Skip the Lime Juice: The acidity of the lime juice balances out the richness of the chili, making it taste fresh and bright.
- Make It Ahead: White Chicken Chili often tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld. Prepare it a day in advance for a more intense flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer them to a slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Q: Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
A: Absolutely. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use a different type of bean?
A: Yes, great Northern beans, navy beans, or even black beans can be used instead of cannellini beans.
Q: How can I thicken my chili if it’s too thin?
A: If your chili is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to release their starches, which will thicken the chili.
Conclusion
This Quick and Easy White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious results, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of warm, comforting White Chicken Chili today!
PrintQuick and Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe
This Quick and Easy White Chicken Chili recipe is packed with tender chicken, creamy Neufchatel cheese, and a mix of flavorful spices like cumin and cayenne pepper. With simple ingredients like cannellini beans, corn, and green chilies, this dish is a perfect blend of creamy and spicy, ideal for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup/Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (7 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (8 oz) pkg Neufchatel cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 ¼ cup frozen or fresh corn
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans
- 2 ½ cups shredded cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving
- Optional: Tortilla chips or strips, Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté diced onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil.
- Add Neufchatel cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Mix in corn, cannellini beans, and shredded chicken. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like tortilla chips, Monterey Jack cheese, and sliced avocado.
Notes
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
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