As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I find myself reaching for comforting meals that bring warmth to my kitchen. Enter my 25-Minute Creamy White Chicken Chili—a delightful spin on the conventional chili. This dish marries tender pulled chicken and hearty beans with a luxuriously creamy base, all enhanced by just the right kick of spice.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when takeout options just weren’t cutting it. The thought of preparing something nutritious—yet quick—was a game changer. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful bowl that not only satisfies the hungry crowd but also caters to those looking to cut back on red meat. Perfect for cozy evenings or a refreshing lunch, this chili hits all the right notes. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into the hearty goodness that awaits!
Why is White Chicken Chili a must-try?
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious comfort food, making it perfect for weeknights.
Creamy Indulgence: The sour cream adds a luscious texture that elevates this chili above traditional recipes.
Healthy Twist: With tender chicken and hearty beans, this dish is not only filling but also a healthier alternative to red meat.
Flavorful Kick: Zesty green chilis bring a mild heat, ensuring your taste buds stay engaged with every spoonful.
Versatile Recipe: Adapt it to your taste by adding spices or extra veggies, making it a fantastic option for anyone!
For great serving suggestions, check out our tips on how to warm up your meal effortlessly.
White Chicken Chili Ingredients
• Gather these essentials for a creamy delight!
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For the Base
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Olive Oil – Adds richness and is used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
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Onion (1 large, diced) – Provides a foundational flavor and sweetness to the chili.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds depth of flavor and aroma.
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Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Base for the chili, infusing moisture and flavor.
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For the Protein and Texture
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Canned Great Northern Beans (2 x 14-ounce cans, drained) – Contributes protein, texture, and heartiness to the dish.
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Canned Green Chilis (2 x 4-ounce cans, with juices) – Provides a mild heat and flavor without the acidity of tomatoes.
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Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound, diced) – Main protein source, giving body to the chili.
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Corn (1 cup, kernels) – Adds sweetness and texture, enhancing overall flavor.
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For the Spice Blend
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Chili Powder (2 teaspoons) – Key spice for traditional chili flavor.
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Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon) – Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements other spices.
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Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon) – Herbaceous flavor that enhances overall taste.
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Salt (½ teaspoon) – Essential for seasoning.
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Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds subtle heat and depth.
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For the Creamy Finish
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Sour Cream (⅔ cup) – Adds creaminess and a slight tang, making this White Chicken Chili truly indulgent!
With these vibrant ingredients on hand, you’ll create a bowl of creamy white chicken chili that not only warms the soul but satisfies every craving. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make White Chicken Chili
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot, warm up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
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Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, letting its lovely aroma fill the kitchen.
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Pour in the Broth: Carefully add in the chicken broth, followed by the drained Great Northern beans, green chilis with their juices, diced chicken, and corn.
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Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Temper the Sour Cream: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with about ½ cup of the hot chili to temper it. This step prevents curdling when you add it to the pot.
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Combine and Serve: Stir the tempered sour cream mixture back into the pot and mix until everything is well combined. Serve your creamy white chicken chili hot, garnishing as desired.
Optional: Top with shredded cheese or fresh cilantro for a finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
White Chicken Chili Variations
Make this creamy delight your own with exciting twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with an extra can of beans or lentils for a hearty vegan option. This keeps the chili’s richness while meeting dietary needs.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the heat. Your taste buds will thank you for that delightful kick!
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Different Beans: Swap Great Northern beans for white navy beans or cannellini for a variation in texture. Each type adds its own flavor while keeping the dish creamy.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream for a luscious dairy-free dessert. The sweet undertones will surprise you in a savory dish!
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Flavor Boost: Include a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne to deepen the spice profile. It creates a smoky background that elevates each spoonful.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or chopped bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and color. You’ll get beautiful freshness with every bite!
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Creamy Alternatives: Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for tanginess with lower calories. It still adds the needed creaminess without compromise.
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Topping Variations: Top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro to add crunch and elevate the dish—a beautiful finishing touch to your creamy soup!
Now that you’ve got these creative variations at your fingertips, you can enjoy a bowl of White Chicken Chili tailored precisely to your taste!
Expert Tips for White Chicken Chili
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Sour Cream Curdling: Always temper the sour cream with hot broth before adding it to the chili to avoid curdling.
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Thicker Consistency: For a creamier texture, consider stirring in up to ¼ cup of cornmeal towards the end of cooking.
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Use Leftovers Wisely: Don’t hesitate to mix in leftover veggies, such as bell peppers or spinach, to boost nutrition and flavor in your white chicken chili.
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Adjusting Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when simmering.
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Serving Options: Serve with crispy tortilla chips or a side of cornbread for a delightful meal that complements the creamy white chicken chili.
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Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent meal prep option!
Make Ahead Options
These White Chicken Chili preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to streamline mealtime! You can prep the entire chili mixture (excluding the sour cream) up to 24 hours in advance—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain its delicious flavors and creamy texture, refrigerate without adding the sour cream until you’re ready to serve. When you’re prepared to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the chili in a pot over medium heat, then temper and stir in the sour cream before serving. This ensures that each bowl remains creamy and just as delightful as if you made it on the spot!
Storage Tips for White Chicken Chili
- Fridge: Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It makes for a quick meal ready to be reheated when you need it!
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chili in individual portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat your creamy white chicken chili in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the chili is too thick after freezing.
- Thawing: Always thaw frozen chili overnight in the fridge before reheating for best flavor and texture.
What to Serve with White Chicken Chili?
Creating a delightful meal doesn’t stop at the chili; consider these complementary dishes that enhance your dining experience.
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Warm Cornbread: The slightly sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread pairs beautifully, soaking up the creamy chili and offering a comforting crunch.
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Tortilla Chips: Enjoy crispy tortilla chips for a delightful texture contrast, perfect for scooping up every last drop of your tasty white chicken chili.
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Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad adds a creamy contrast and a burst of freshness, balancing the spice and heartiness of the chili.
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Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory dish, featuring corn on the cob with lime and cheese, enhances the overall meal with its vibrant flavors.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy, zesty rice is an excellent base that complements the richness of the chili while adding a fragrant touch to each bite.
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Margaritas: A refreshing margarita brings a zesty kick, contrasting the chili’s creaminess and elevating your mealtime celebration.
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Cheesy Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with vegetables or more chicken make for a wonderful side—a melty companion to your chili!
Every option ties back to the comforting warmth of your white chicken chili, transforming it into a truly memorable meal.
White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What kind of beans should I use for white chicken chili?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using canned Great Northern beans, as they contribute a mild taste and creamy texture to the chili. However, white navy beans or any other mild white beans can also work beautifully!
How should I store leftover white chicken chili?
Absolutely! Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for those busy lunches or quick dinners. Just reheat it in the microwave for a speedy meal.
Can I freeze white chicken chili?
Yes, you can! To freeze your white chicken chili, pour it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What should I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili has come out too thick for your liking, you can easily adjust it! Just add a splash of chicken broth or water, stir it well, and let it simmer for a few extra minutes until you reach your desired consistency. The more the merrier when it comes to consistency!
Can my pets have any of this chili?
It’s best to keep this delicious white chicken chili to yourself! Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. Instead, save them a small piece of plain chicken if you want to share a treat.
What if I have a dairy allergy?
No problem! You can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Just make sure to temper it like you would regular sour cream, by mixing in a little hot chili first to prevent any curdling.
Creamy White Chicken Chili Ready in 25 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken broth, drained beans, green chilis with juices, diced chicken, and corn.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with about ½ cup of hot chili to temper it.
- Stir the tempered sour cream mixture back into the pot until well combined. Serve hot.
