When I first made white chicken chili on a rainy California evening, I wasn’t expecting magic but that’s exactly what happened. The creaminess, the gentle heat, and the satisfying chunks of chicken made it an instant family favorite. As someone who shifted to a healthier lifestyle, this unique chili recipe with chicken proved that comfort food could also be wholesome. Whether you’re warming up in winter or needing a quick nourishing dinner, this white chicken chili recipe has become my go-to. It’s rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying without being heavy. Let’s dive into a cozy bowl of creamy white chicken chili magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty but Healthy – Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and creamy goodness without excess fat.
- Quick to Make – On the table in under 45 minutes, this is a white chicken chili stove top favorite.
- One-Pot Simplicity – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch, and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Whether you’re keto, low carb, or gluten-free, simple tweaks make it work.
- Comforting Flavor – Creamy, spicy, and deeply comforting. Like a hug in a bowl.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need:
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own creamy white chicken chili on the stove top:
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and paprika. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Add beans and broth: Stir in the green chiles, drained beans, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes uncovered.
- Make it creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream (or Greek yogurt), softened cream cheese, and corn. Mix well until everything is melted and incorporated into a creamy base.
- Finish with lime: Stir in fresh lime juice and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips.
How to Serve White Chicken Chili
This dish is a complete comfort meal on its own, but here are a few delicious ways to elevate your presentation:
- Top it Off: Add shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado, chopped green onions, or jalapeño slices for extra flavor.
- With Bread: Serve with warm cornbread, crusty sourdough, or keto-friendly almond flour biscuits.
- Make it a Meal: Pair it with a crisp salad like our Low-Carb Ranch Cucumber Salad for a balanced plate.
- Party Style: Serve in small bowls or cups as an appetizer during game day or fall gatherings.
Additional Tips for Best Results
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Use shredded rotisserie chicken to cut cook time in half.
- Keto-Friendly Swaps: Skip corn and beans, use chopped cauliflower or zucchini, and double the chicken and cream.
- Extra Creamy? Add an extra ounce of cream cheese or ¼ cup heavy cream.
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or use hot green chiles for a spicy kick.
- Slow Cooker Version: Add all ingredients (except dairy and lime) to slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in cream cheese and sour cream at the end.
Recipe Variations
Here are some delicious twists on this white chicken chili recipe:
1. Low-Carb White Chicken Chili
- Skip corn and beans.
- Add riced cauliflower and a splash of heavy cream.
- Perfect for keto followers!
2. White Chicken Chili with Sweet Potatoes
- Add cubed sweet potatoes in Step 3.
- Adds color, fiber, and a touch of natural sweetness.
3. Tex-Mex Style Chili
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and top with crushed tortilla chips and cheddar cheese.
4. Dairy-Free Version
- Replace dairy with coconut cream and omit cheese for a lactose-friendly twist.
Freezing and Storage
This creamy white chicken chili stores like a dream and is perfect for meal prep.
| Storage Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop. |
| Freezer | Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. |
| Reheating | Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on medium-low heat until warm. |
| Avoid Freezing | If using sour cream or Greek yogurt, freeze before adding dairy. Stir in when reheating. |
Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick lunches!
Special Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the best white chicken chili on the stove top:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot or Dutch Oven | For one-pot cooking |
| Wooden Spoon | For stirring without scratching your pot |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | To get the seasonings just right |
| Ladle | For easy serving |
| Knife & Cutting Board | For prepping chicken and veggies |
FAQs
1. Can I use different beans?
Yes! While white beans like cannellini or Great Northern are traditional, you can substitute with navy beans or even chickpeas for a twist.
2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It can be! Omit the beans and corn, increase the chicken, and use heavy cream or coconut milk instead of yogurt.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Add all ingredients except the dairy to your slow cooker. Cook on low 6–8 hours, then stir in the sour cream and cream cheese at the end.
4. What can I serve instead of chicken?
Turkey is a great alternative especially leftover roast turkey. You can also use plant-based chicken or jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.
5. Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, just be sure to add the dairy after reheating. Cream-based soups sometimes separate if frozen fully assembled.
Conclusion
This creamy white chicken chili is a flavor-packed, comforting, and nutritious meal that you can make in just one pot. Whether you follow a low-carb lifestyle or just want something cozy and satisfying, this dish hits all the marks: quick to cook, family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and loaded with flavor.
It’s one of those unique chili recipes with chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with a side salad, freeze some for later, and make it your own with the variations above. Ready to make magic in your kitchen?