White chicken chili is a comforting dish that has a special place in my heart. It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it perfect for cozy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate its simplicity; with each spoonful, you get the satisfaction of a warming meal alongside a healthy balance of protein and fiber. The best part? You can whip it together in just under 30 minutes!
Why you’ll love this dish
This white chicken chili stands out because it’s not only quick to make, but it’s also budget-friendly and incredibly versatile. As a one-pot meal, it allows for easy cleanup, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a dish to impress at a potluck, this chili fits the bill perfectly.
“I made this for dinner last night, and it was a total hit! My kids can’t stop asking for more. It’s become our go-to chili recipe!” – Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Let’s break down the cooking process. In just a few simple steps, you’ll end up with a delicious and nourishing dish. This recipe involves sautéing the aromatics, combining the ingredients, and letting everything simmer together for ultimate flavor development.
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this white chicken chili to life:
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded turkey or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
- Next, add in the shredded chicken, white beans, corn, and diced green chilies to the pot, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This white chicken chili is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few creative touches. Serve it with warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A side of fresh avocado salad or lime wedges can add a burst of freshness to your meal.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your white chicken chili fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. When reheating, ensure the chili is heated thoroughly, coming to a simmer to ensure food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- To enhance the flavor, consider simmering the chili a bit longer; the longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a super convenient option that saves prep time.
- If you like a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to explore variations of this base recipe. You can add diced bell peppers, throw in some spinach for a nutritional boost, or swap in different beans like navy or great northern beans. For a creamy texture, stir in some cream cheese or plain Greek yogurt just before serving.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for white chicken chili?
Prep time is typically around 10-15 minutes, especially if you have pre-cooked chicken on hand.
Can I make this white chicken chili in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead. Just cool it completely, store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Is it safe to freeze the chili?
Yes, portions can be frozen. Just ensure it cools down before freezing and store in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
PrintWhite Chicken Chili
A creamy and hearty white chicken chili that’s perfect for cozy weeknights and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Poultry
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add in the shredded chicken, white beans, corn, and diced green chilies to the pot, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes
Feel free to substitute chicken with shredded turkey or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. To enhance flavor, simmer longer, and for a spicy kick, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
