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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili
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This easy White Chicken Chili recipe is a warm, hearty, and flavorful comfort food packed with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a perfect blend of spices. Quick to prepare and versatile, it’s a nutritious meal suitable for any season and ideal for sharing or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, diced or shredded
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 oz cream cheese or 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Variations & Add-Ins

  • Diced chipotle peppers in adobo (for smoky heat)
  • Greek yogurt (substitute for sour cream for lighter texture)
  • Extra beans, diced zucchini, or sweet potatoes (for vegetarian version)
  • Corn, bell peppers, or spinach (for added veggies)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics – Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño (if using) and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the chili.
  2. Step 2: Cook the Chicken – Add the diced or shredded chicken breasts to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and begins to absorb the aromatic flavors, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add Beans and Broth – Stir in the drained white beans, diced green chiles, ground cumin, dried oregano, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Step 4: Simmer and Season – Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the chili to thicken and the flavors to deepen. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as desired.
  5. Step 5: Finish with Creaminess – Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until fully melted and smooth, giving the chili a rich, creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use shredded chicken for better texture integration in the chili.
  • Allow the chili to simmer gently to develop deep, rich flavors.
  • Adjust spice levels by starting mild and adding jalapeños or cayenne gradually.
  • Homemade chicken broth elevates the flavor compared to store-bought.
  • For thicker chili, blend half of the beans with some broth and stir back into the pot.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, chicken chili, creamy chili, easy chili recipe, comfort food, gluten free chili

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/white-chicken-chili/