PERFECT WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

Craving a bowl of creamy, comforting goodness that’s packed with flavor but feels lighter than traditional chili? This White Chicken Chili recipe is your answer – it’s a symphony of tender chicken, creamy broth, and just the right amount of spice. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food; I promise, you’ll want to make this again and again!

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Protein Powerhouse:

• Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)

Aromatic Base:

• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• Garlic: 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Jalapeño: 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)

Beans & Veggies:

• Great Northern Beans: 2 (15-ounce) cans, rinsed and drained
• Cannellini Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained
• Corn: 1 (15-ounce) can, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
• Green Chiles: 1 (4-ounce) can, diced

Broth & Creaminess:

• Chicken Broth: 6-8 cups (adjust for desired thickness)
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
• Sour Cream: ½ cup (optional, for extra creaminess)

Spices & Seasoning:

• Cumin: 2 teaspoons
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: To taste
• Pepper: To taste
• Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend)
• Avocado, diced
• Cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Tortilla chips
• Lime wedges

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Add the Goodies

1. Pour in the chicken broth. Start with 6 cups and add more later if needed to reach your desired consistency.
2. Add the Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, corn, and diced green chiles.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!

Step 5: The Creamy Secret

1. Remove about 1-2 cups of the chili from the pot and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
2. Add the softened cream cheese and blend until smooth. This is the key to a creamy, dreamy White Chicken Chili!
3. Pour the blended mixture back into the pot and stir well to combine.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

1. Stir in the shredded chicken.
2. If using sour cream, stir it in now for extra creaminess.
3. Heat through, but do not boil.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your preference.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the White Chicken Chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and tortilla chips. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright finish!

Tips and Tricks for Chili Perfection

Chicken Choices:

While shredded chicken breasts are the most common choice, don’t be afraid to experiment! You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Just make sure the chicken is cooked and shredded before adding it to the chili.

Spice It Up (or Down!):

This recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. If you like things hot, add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeño altogether.

Cream Cheese is Key:

Don’t skip the cream cheese! It’s what gives this White Chicken Chili its signature creamy texture. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the blender to ensure a smooth consistency.

Make It Ahead:

White Chicken Chili is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors actually develop and deepen over time. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing for Later:

This chili freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Thinning or Thickening:

If your chili is too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Variations to Try

Crockpot Sensation:

For an even easier version, try this Crockpot White Chicken Chili! Simply combine all the ingredients (except the cream cheese and sour cream) in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Creamy Dreamy:

Craving even *more* creaminess? Check out this Creamy White Chicken Chili recipe, which often incorporates heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra decadent touch.

Taco Twist:

If you’re in the mood for something different, consider making Chicken Taco Soup for a south-of-the-border flavor explosion. For another White Chicken Chili recipe, click here! Or check out this White Chicken Chili or this White Chicken Chili recipe!

Serving Suggestions

Chili Bar Bonanza:

Set up a chili bar with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, and tortilla chips. This allows everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.

Side Dish Sensations:

Serve the White Chicken Chili with a side of cornbread, a green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.

Game Day Grub:

White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for game day gatherings. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I truly believe this White Chicken Chili recipe is a winner because it’s:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make this chili.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices, beans, and chicken creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
• Creamy: The cream cheese adds a touch of richness and creaminess that sets it apart from other chili recipes.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this chili is a great choice.

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for the *perfect* White Chicken Chili! I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and toppings to create your own signature version. Happy cooking!