If you’re searching for a soul-warming bowl of comfort that’s both hearty and vibrant, look no further than White Chicken Chili. This creamy, flavor-packed chili is brimming with tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, sweet corn, and the subtle kick of green chiles and spices, all finished with a tangy swirl of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to gather everyone around the table, dig in, and savor every spoonful on a chilly day.

White Chicken Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this White Chicken Chili is handpicked for maximum flavor and a silky, satisfying texture. Don’t be fooled by the simple list – every component plays a vital role in creating a chili that’s anything but ordinary.

Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing and unlocking the aromas of onion and garlic.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the base of the chili.
Garlic: Brings a savory punch that infuses every bite.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean, juicy protein that soaks up all the spicy goodness.
Diced green chiles: Offer mild heat and a touch of tang for that signature chili flavor.
Ground cumin: Adds warm, earthy undertones that make this dish unmistakably chili.
Dried oregano: Delivers a subtle herbal note that ties the spices together.
Chili powder: Gives a gentle kick and classic chili taste without overpowering the white beans.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like it spicy, just a pinch adds heat.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, they’re the heart of this chili, providing that satisfying texture.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps things light while enhancing the savory base.
Corn: Pops of sweetness that make each spoonful extra special.
Sour cream: Swirls in creaminess and a lovely tang at the finish.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for a luscious, velvety texture.
Lime juice: A splash of freshness that brightens the whole pot.
Chopped fresh cilantro: The perfect finishing touch with its fresh, herbal aroma.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by warming olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes aromatic. This step lays the flavorful groundwork for your White Chicken Chili.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Next, add the chicken pieces directly into the pot along with the diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken will start to brown slightly, soaking up all those wonderful spices and aromatics, which is exactly what gives White Chicken Chili its crave-worthy flavor.

Step 3: Stir in Beans, Broth, and Corn

Pour in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and corn. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low so it simmers steadily. Let it bubble away uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This gives the chicken time to cook through and allows all the flavors to mingle and develop into something truly special.

Step 4: Finish with Creamy Goodness

When the chili is ready, take it off the heat. Stir in the sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and a generous squeeze of lime juice. The sour cream and cheese melt right in, giving the chili its signature creamy texture, while the lime brightens everything up. Taste, and add a little more salt or spice if you like.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot White Chicken Chili into bowls and finish each serving with a good sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. The freshness of the cilantro takes the flavors to the next level and makes the dish pop visually too.

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

Garnishes

Don’t hold back on the garnishes because they’re half the fun! A dollop of extra sour cream, a handful of crushed tortilla chips, or even a sprinkle of jalapeño slices can add a playful crunch and a bit of extra heat. Fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side let everyone customize each bowl of White Chicken Chili to their own taste.

Side Dishes

This chili is plenty hearty on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, serve it with warm cornbread, a batch of tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad. The mild, creamy flavors of White Chicken Chili pair beautifully with sides that add a little crunch or some extra zest.

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling White Chicken Chili into bread bowls for a cozy, dramatic presentation. Or set up a “chili bar” with all kinds of toppings—from shredded cheese and diced avocado to hot sauce and scallions—so guests can build their own perfect bowl. Serving the chili in individual mugs makes for a fun, casual vibe at parties or game day gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

White Chicken Chili keeps remarkably well! Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and become even richer overnight, making it a dream for meal prep or easy lunches.

Freezing

If you want to stock your freezer with some homemade comfort, White Chicken Chili is a perfect candidate. Let the chili cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers so you can grab it whenever a chili craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chili gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If it’s a bit too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions—just stir every minute or so for even heating and creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just add it during the simmering step and cut the cooking time in half, since the chicken is already cooked. It makes White Chicken Chili even faster without sacrificing any flavor.

How can I make this chili even creamier?

If you like your chili ultra-creamy, try mashing some of the cannellini beans before adding them to the pot. You can also stir in a little extra sour cream or cheese at the end. The result is a decadently rich White Chicken Chili that’s almost like a stew.

Is White Chicken Chili spicy?

The beauty of this recipe is that you control the heat! With just green chiles and a pinch of chili powder, it’s quite mild. If you want more kick, add the optional cayenne or throw in diced jalapeños. For a kid-friendly version, simply leave out the cayenne.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, and use your favorite dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether. The chili will still be creamy and flavorful, making it a great option for those avoiding dairy.

What’s the best way to thicken White Chicken Chili?

For a thicker texture, mash a portion of the beans before stirring them in, or let the chili simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce. You can also add a spoonful of instant mashed potatoes or cornstarch slurry for extra body if desired.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is everything you want in a comfort meal: creamy, zesty, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just need a cozy dinner for the week, give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

White Chicken Chili Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This comforting White Chicken Chili features tender chunks of chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and a blend of flavorful spices simmered together to create a hearty and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. Enhanced with green chiles, corn, and topped with sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, and fresh cilantro, this gluten-free chili offers a delicious twist on traditional chili recipes.

Ingredients

Scale

Chili Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Beans and Liquids

2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen or fresh corn

Finishing Touches

1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Juice of 1/2 lime
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook Chicken and Spices: Add the chicken chunks, diced green chiles, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
Add Beans and Liquids: Stir in the drained cannellini beans, low-sodium chicken broth, and corn. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Simmer Chili: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. This will allow the chicken to cook through fully and the flavors to meld together.
Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash some of the cannellini beans before adding them to the pot.
Use shredded rotisserie chicken to reduce cooking and simmering time.
This chili freezes well, making it ideal for meal prepping and easy reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American