There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of white chicken chili. The aroma wafts through the air, a warm embrace that pulls you closer. You can almost taste the tender chicken, the vibrant spices, and the creamy goodness dancing on your palate. Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken Each spoonful is a delightful harmony of flavors, with just a hint of heat that keeps you coming back for more. Imagine cozy nights under a blanket, family gathered around, laughter mixing with the tantalizing scents of this dish. For more inspiration, check out this stuffed pepper soup recipe recipe.
Growing up, our family had a tradition where we’d host chili cook-offs every winter. Friends would bring their best recipes, and my mom’s white chicken chili always stole the show. It was like having a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for game day or a casual gathering. Southwestern Chicken Salad recipe Trust me; once you try it, you’ll find yourself dreaming up excuses to make this comforting dish any time of year.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This white chicken chili is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition
- You can customize it based on your pantry staples or your family’s preferences
- Its creamy texture combined with colorful toppings makes it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with cornbread for an extra treat!
I remember my cousin’s face lighting up when she tasted my first attempt at this recipe during Thanksgiving dinner. Her enthusiastic approval gave me all the confidence I needed!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 breasts to ensure everyone gets plenty of protein in their bowl.
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White Beans: Canned or dried work well; they add creaminess and heartiness to your chili.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion provides sweetness; be sure to chop finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves unleash bold flavors that complement the dish beautifully—don’t skimp here!
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Green Chilies: For that signature kick! You can adjust the heat according to your preference.
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Cumin and Chili Powder: Essential spices that elevate the flavor profile; I suggest using fresh ground if possible.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
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Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Stir in at the end for creaminess; both options work wonderfully!
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish—add just before serving if you like!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely while chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil then sauté onions until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Chicken & Spices: Toss in chopped chicken along with cumin and chili powder; cook until chicken is no longer pink and well coated with spices.
Pour in Broth & Beans: Add chicken broth and white beans into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Green Chilies & Simmer: Stir in green chilies then reduce heat, letting it simmer for 20 minutes until all ingredients are heated through and mingling nicely.
Finish with Creaminess: Remove from heat and stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture. Garnish with cilantro if desired before serving.
Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting white chicken chili! Pair it with tortilla chips or crusty bread for an unforgettable meal experience! Parmesan Pasta Soup.
You Must Know
- White chicken chili is a warm hug in a bowl, especially on chilly days
- The aroma of spices fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and freezes well, making dinner easy when life gets hectic
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best white chicken chili, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add the chicken and spices before incorporating beans and broth. Sweet Garlic Chicken recipe This sequence builds flavor efficiently.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different beans or add corn for sweetness. A squeeze of lime brightens up the flavor while fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy consistency without scorching.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breast meat
- Be cautious not to overcook your beans; they should be tender but not mushy
- Adding a bit of cream or sour cream at the end takes this dish to another level!
Cooking white chicken chili has become a family favorite during our cozy movie nights. Everyone loves it, especially my sister who insists on extra toppings—guacamole included! For more inspiration, check out this cozy white chicken chili recipe recipe.

FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for white chicken chili?
Yes, frozen chicken works well; just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the chili.
What can I serve with white chicken chili?
White chicken chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for added crunch.
Is white chicken chili spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted; use mild green chilies for less heat or jalapeños for more kick.
White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
White chicken chili is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. This creamy, protein-packed chili features tender chicken, white beans, and a medley of spices that create a delightful balance of warmth and taste. Top it with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. Ideal for meal prep, this dish freezes well, ensuring you have a delicious meal at your fingertips anytime.
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chopped)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cans (4 oz each) green chilies (diced)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and chop onions, garlic, and chicken.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add chopped chicken along with cumin and chili powder; cook until chicken is no longer pink.
- Stir in chicken broth and white beans; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix in green chilies and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg




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