Cozy White Chicken Chili Recipe for Quick Comfort Food
Creamy White Chicken Chili is one of those comforting dishes that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is a lifesaver. I love how it can be made quickly using leftover chicken, making it an ideal option for those days when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying. This White Chicken Chili is perfect for cozy family dinners or when entertaining friends, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can whip it up on the stovetop, let it simmer in a slow cooker, or speed things up using an instant pot. No matter how you choose to make it, it’s always creamy, flavorful, and simply delightful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.
– Versatile cooking methods: Works well on the stovetop, slow cooker, or instant pot.
– Leftover-friendly: A great way to use up any cooked chicken you have on hand.
– Creamy and comforting: The combination of sour cream and beans results in a rich texture that everyone will love.
– Healthy choice: Packed with protein and fiber while being low in calories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious White Chicken Chili.
For the Chili
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
– 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Juice from 1/2 small lime
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans
– 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
– 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
– 2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken)
For Serving
– Fresh cilantro
– Shredded cheese
– Tortilla chips
– Green onions
– Avocado
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is making a recipe your own! Here are some fun variations to try with your White Chicken Chili.
– Swap the beans: Use pinto beans or black beans instead of great northern beans for a different flavor.
– Add some veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
– Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper or throw in some jalapeños for an extra kick.
– Change up the toppings: Experiment with different garnishes like sliced radishes or diced tomatoes for fresh flavors.
How to Make White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large (5–6 quart) pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 2: Combine Broth and Spices
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with canned diced green chilies, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, dried oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all these wonderful flavors together.
Step 3: Prepare the Beans
Drain and rinse the great northern beans using a strainer. This helps reduce sodium content while keeping them clean.
Step 4: Blend Some Beans (Optional)
Measure out a big ladleful of the rinsed beans and place them in a food processor with a splash of broth from the soup. Puree until smooth. This optional step creates that creamy texture we all crave in our chili!
Step 5: Simmer Together
Add both pureed and whole beans back into the pot along with corn. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 to 30 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream along with your cooked shredded chicken. The sour cream adds that signature creaminess that makes this chili so comforting.
Step 7: Serve It Up!
Serve your White Chicken Chili garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Pro Tips for Making White Chicken Chili
Making the perfect White Chicken Chili is all about those little tricks that take your dish to the next level. Here are some tips that will help you create a delicious bowl of chili every time.
– Use leftover chicken for convenience. Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time in your cooking process.
– For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the beans. This creates a thick texture that makes the chili feel indulgent while still being healthy.
– Adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños.
– Don’t skip on garnishes! Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and shredded cheese add vibrant flavors and textures to each serving.
– Experiment with toppings! Tortilla chips not only add crunch but also make for a fun way to enjoy your chili.
How to Serve White Chicken Chili
Serving White Chicken Chili can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish.
Garnishes
– Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the chili beautifully.
– Avocado slices: Creamy avocado provides richness and balances the spices.
– Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds flavor and a melty texture.
Side Dishes
– Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread pairs perfectly with the creamy chili.
– Green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
– Rice or quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal option.
– Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips are great for dipping and add an extra layer of texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping White Chicken Chili is easy and convenient. You can enjoy it throughout the week or save it for later!
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
– Portion leftover chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
– Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
– Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
– For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
If you have questions about making or enjoying White Chicken Chili, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with extra beans or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
What if I don’t have green chilies?
You can use diced bell peppers or jalapeños as an alternative. Just adjust according to your spice preference!
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes! While great northern beans work well, you can also use white kidney beans or cannellini beans for similar results.
Final Thoughts
I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this comforting bowl of White Chicken Chili just like I have. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy every spoonful! Happy cooking!
Creamy White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with canned diced green chilies, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, dried oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Drain and rinse the great northern beans using a strainer.
- Measure out a big ladleful of the rinsed beans and place them in a food processor with a splash of broth from the soup. Puree until smooth.
- Add both pureed and whole beans back into the pot along with corn. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 to 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream along with your cooked shredded chicken.
- Serve your White Chicken Chili garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired.
