Name: White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can corn, drained; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

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White Chicken Chili is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or gatherings with family and friends. The creamy texture combined with tender chicken and hearty beans creates a cozy bowl that warms the soul. Whether you’re nestled in front of a fireplace or hosting a game night, this dish has a special way of bringing everyone together. The enticing aroma will have your kitchen smelling divine in no time, leaving you counting down the minutes until you can dig in.

Reasons to Love White Chicken Chili

There’s something uniquely delightful about this White Chicken Chili that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a dish that balances creamy and savory flavors, easily adaptable to your taste, and perfect for any occasion. Here are a few reasons to love this comforting recipe:

It’s satisfying yet light, perfect for those looking for a wholesome meal.
The recipe is easy to prepare, making it approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.
It can be easily adjusted to fit different dietary needs and preferences.

Gather These Ingredients

To create a delicious White Chicken Chili, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to make magic in a bowl. While this recipe traditionally includes certain elements, it’s easy to swap in leaner alternatives, like using ground chicken instead of pork and turkey bacon for a lighter touch. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Bringing It Together

Making your White Chicken Chili is a simple, enjoyable process. Follow these steps to create a warming dish that will please everyone at your table:

In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The delightful aroma will draw everyone to the kitchen.
Add in the shredded chicken, white beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the flavors meld.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 20 minutes. This will thicken the chili and deepen the flavors while your kitchen fills with enticing scents.
Stir in the heavy cream or Greek yogurt until everything is well combined and creamy. The color will turn a beautiful shade of white, inviting you to take a taste.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 25 minutes, Total ~ 35 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 350 (estimate).

Plan Ahead

If you’re looking to make your White Chicken Chili even easier, there are several elements you can prep ahead of time. Chop the onions and garlic, shred the chicken, and even measure out your spices the night before. Store all your prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, everything will be at your fingertips, making assembly quick and stress-free.

Storing and Reheating

To keep any leftovers delicious, store your White Chicken Chili in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick. As a freshness cue, look for the chili to be steaming but not boiling, ensuring that the flavors remain intact and the texture is just right.

Perfect Pairings

White Chicken Chili offers wonderful flavors that can be enhanced with the right side dishes. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside your bowl:

Warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the chili.
A fresh garden salad to balance the creamy soup with some crunch.
Nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños for a fun, interactive side.
Cornbread to enjoy the wholesome flavors of the dish.
Sliced avocado or guacamole to add a creamy texture contrast.

Variations and Swaps

One of the best things about White Chicken Chili is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of shredded chicken for a different texture.
Swap in black beans or kidney beans for the white beans to switch up the flavor profile.
Add chopped bell peppers or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Use lactose-free heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs like oregano for added depth.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To achieve the best results with your White Chicken Chili, consider these pro tips:

Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions and garlic; this step builds a flavorful base.
For a spicier chili, include some diced green chili peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Adjust the thickness of the chili by adding more or less chicken broth based on your preference.
For a heartier meal, you can add more beans or chicken to give it an extra protein boost.

White Chicken Chili FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and shred it once it’s easily handled.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all of the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just ensure that any broth or canned goods you purchase are labeled as such.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute, offering creaminess with fewer calories. Just stir it in towards the end of cooking for best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even hot sauce to amp up the heat to your liking.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Chili is a go-to dish that can brighten up any table with its rich, comforting flavors and easy preparation. It’s a recipe your loved ones will ask for again and again, creating warm memories around the dinner table. So, gather your ingredients, follow along, and delight in the cozy, satisfying goodness of this delightful chili. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to get creative along the way!

White Chicken Chili

Author: patrick
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A warm and creamy White Chicken Chili that brings comfort to chilly evenings and gatherings, with tender chicken and hearty beans.

Instructions

In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Add shredded chicken, white beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes to thicken and deepen flavors.
Stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro.