This white chicken chili is packed with incredible flavor and makes the perfect meal for a cold winter day. It’s hearty, comforting, and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The recipe, generously shared by a close friend and co-worker, has become a favorite in my household. Every spoonful is filled with tender chicken, creamy beans, and a rich blend of spices that warms you from the inside out. I’ve tried many variations of chicken chili, but this one stands out as the best, thanks to its simplicity and robust taste. Whether hosting a gathering or looking for a satisfying family dinner, this dish never disappoints!
Table of Contents
The Best White Chicken Chili Recipe
We’re all familiar with the classic beef chili made with kidney beans, tomatoes, and traditional spices, but have you tried white chicken chili? It’s an excellent alternative for those who prefer chicken over beef or for anyone craving a creamier, protein-packed soup.
One of the reasons I love white chicken chili is how simple it is to prepare—especially on busy weeknights. This dish is easy to throw together with pantry staples and canned goods on short notice. Rotisserie chicken makes the process even quicker, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal without the fuss!
The Secret to Making Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
In this recipe, there’s a clever step where a portion of the Cannellini beans is blended with some of the soup broth. This idea was inspired by watching Giada on the Food Network, where she used pureed Cannellini beans to give the soup a creamy texture without relying heavily on dairy or thickening agents like flour.
I adapted this technique to make white bean chicken chili extra creamy, and it worked perfectly. Suppose you don’t have a food processor or prefer to skip the extra cleanup. In that case, you can add all the beans whole, but blending a portion elevates the dish by adding a rich, creamy texture without additional ingredients.
When should I make White Chicken Chili?
This chili is the perfect quick and easy meal for busy fall and winter weeknights. Using the crock pot makes it even more convenient. It’s a warm, comforting dish ideal for Halloween, football Sundays, or any cozy gathering with family and friends.
Is it possible to make White Chicken Chili in a Crockpot?
Yes, you can easily make this White Chicken Chili in a crockpot. Here’s how:
Finally, stir in the pureed bean mixture, beans, corn, shredded chicken, lime, and cilantro. Heat everything through before serving.
Start by using one lb. of raw chicken breasts, adding them along with the broth, spices, and green chilies at the beginning.
To avoid a crunchy texture, either finely mince the onions or sauté them with garlic before adding them to the crockpot.
Cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked. Then, remove the chicken, add softened light cream cheese, and cook until the cheese is melted.
My White Chicken Chili: A Top-Rated Reader Favorite!
I originally shared this recipe in May 2013, which has become a favorite among readers! I’d love for you to try and rate the recipe—your feedback is always appreciated!
White Chicken Chili Made Simple with Rotisserie Chicken for Extra Flavor and Convenience
Although I initially used chicken breasts for this recipe, after years of experimenting, I’ve discovered that using rotisserie or leftover chicken brings much better flavor and ease. Not only is it more accessible, but it also adds more flavor and prevents the chicken from drying out. Plus, it’s added at the end, keeping the prep process simple and quick!
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- Three boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- One large onion, chopped
- Two cloves garlic, minced
- Five ¼ cups chicken broth
- Three 15-ounce cans of cannellini beans were rinsed and drained.
- 2 (4 oz) cans chopped green chiles
- One tablespoon of dried oregano
- One teaspoon of ground cumin
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Step 1:
In a Dutch oven, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the chicken is browned on both sides.
Step 2:
Remove the chicken, place it on a cutting board, and cut it into 1-inch pieces.
Step 3:
Return the chicken to the Dutch oven. Add chicken broth, cannellini beans, green chiles, oregano, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4:
Place fresh cilantro in bowls, ladle the chili, and top with shredded cheese.
Step 5:
Season with salt and serve hot.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mins | 40 mins | 50 mins | 4 |
White Chicken Chili is an ideal dish for those seeking comfort food that is hearty and flavorful yet not too heavy. Its combination of tender chicken, creamy white cannellini beans, and a delicious broth makes it a versatile meal for any occasion. Adding green chiles, cumin, and oregano provides depth and a hint of spice, while toppings like fresh cilantro and melted cheese give each bowl a burst of freshness and richness. This chili offers a lighter twist on traditional red meat-based chili, making it a popular choice for those who want a more delicate yet satisfying option.
What sets White Chicken Chili apart is its ability to be customized to suit different tastes. This dish can quickly adapt whether you prefer mild or with extra heat from cayenne pepper. You can also elevate the texture and flavor with toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, tortilla chips, or even a squeeze of lime for added zest. Its balance of flavors ensures that every spoonful is packed with savory goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser for casual family dinners and larger gatherings with friends.
White Chicken Chili is also perfect for meal prep, as it stores and reheats well. You can make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for quick meals later on. The dish’s versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be tailored to individual preferences make it a recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.
conclusion
In conclusion, White Chicken Chili offers a satisfying blend of warmth and flavor, combining simple ingredients into a comforting and nourishing dish. Its ease of preparation and flexibility with ingredients make it an excellent addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re making it for yourself or a group, this chili will undoubtedly become a favorite, leaving everyone eager for seconds.