Go Back
+ servings
The Best White Chicken Chili

The Best White Chicken Chili: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

The Best White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting meal full of tender chicken, hearty beans, and rich broth.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 1 small yellow onion Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; use white onion as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing, providing a healthy fat source; can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 2 cloves garlic Enhances aroma and flavor; use garlic powder as a quick alternative.
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Base of the soup; vegetable broth serves as a good substitute for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 can diced green chilies Adds mild heat and flavor; use jalapeños for extra spice.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin For warm earthy notes; coriander can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds smoky flavor; smoked paprika will intensify the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds herbal notes; can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander Brings citrus undertones; leave out if unavailable.
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper Offers a touch of spicy heat; adjust to taste.
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper Enhances overall flavor.
  • 4 ounces Neufchatel cheese Adds creaminess without excess fat; substitute with regular cream cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh corn Sweetness and texture; canned corn can be an alternative.
  • 1 cup cannellini beans Provides protein and creaminess; Great Northern beans are an acceptable swap.
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken Makes for convenience and rich flavor; any cooked chicken can be used here.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Brightens the dish with acidity; lemon juice is an appropriate substitute.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Adds freshness; green onions can be used for a different profile.
For Toppings
  • to taste tortilla chips or strips Adds crunch and texture.
  • to taste Monterey Jack cheese Rich, melty goodness for extra creaminess.
  • to taste sliced avocado Creamy texture that complements the chili beautifully.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add one small diced yellow onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Follow with 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring for an additional 30 seconds until aromatic.
  2. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add one can of diced green chilies to the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and ground coriander, along with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. While the broth simmers, rinse and set aside 1 cup of cannellini beans. In a blender, puree the remaining beans with 1/4 cup of the soup broth until smooth. Return the pureed beans to the pot.
  4. Stir in 4 ounces of Neufchatel cheese, along with the reserved whole cannellini beans and 1 cup of frozen or fresh corn. Simmer the chili for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is fully melted.
  5. Add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro to the pot. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes on low heat.
  6. Ladle the creamy white chicken chili into bowls and personalize with your favorite toppings such as Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado, and crispy tortilla chips or strips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, use rotisserie chicken. Adjust cayenne pepper for desired heat level. This chili can be made in a crockpot for convenience.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!