White Chicken Chili is a hearty, creamy, and protein-rich dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Unlike traditional red chili, this version is made with shredded chicken, white beans, and a blend of flavorful spices, giving it a lighter yet still satisfying taste. The addition of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a velvety texture without making it overly heavy.
This dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for a well-balanced meal. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily modified to be dairy-free. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly dish, White Chicken Chili is a fantastic option.
White Chicken Chili – Quick Recipe Info
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
| Dairy-Free | Optional (use dairy-free sour cream) |
| Keto-Friendly | No (contains beans) |
| Vegan | No (contains chicken) |
| Serving Size | 6 servings |
| Meal Prep-Friendly | Yes |
| Storage | Up to 4 days in the fridge, 3 months in the freezer |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: With 38g of protein per serving, this chili keeps you full and energized.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and only 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Creamy Yet Healthy: Greek yogurt or light sour cream adds creaminess without making it too heavy.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap beans, or add your favorite toppings.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Option: Suitable for various dietary needs.
- Great for Meal Prep: Makes 6 servings and stores well for quick meals throughout the week.
Ingredients to Make White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful, and nutritious dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in adding texture, taste, and depth to the chili.
- Chicken Breast (2 cups, cooked and shredded) – Lean and packed with protein, shredded chicken makes this chili hearty and filling. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook fresh chicken breasts and shred them.
- White Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed) – These beans not only add a creamy texture but also provide fiber and plant-based protein, making the dish extra nutritious. Great options include cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, or navy beans.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups, low-sodium) – The base of the chili that enhances the overall flavor while keeping the dish light. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt content.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the chili. Yellow or white onions work best.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential for enhancing the aroma and taste of the chili. Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
- Diced Green Chilies (1 can, 4 oz) – Gives the chili a mild heat and an authentic Tex-Mex flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, use hot green chilies.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon) – A warming spice that enhances the earthy flavor of the chili. It’s a must-have for that classic Southwestern taste.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds a touch of smoky heat, balancing the creaminess of the dish.
- Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Provides a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor profile of the chili.
- Oregano (½ teaspoon) – Contributes a hint of herbal freshness that complements the other spices.
- Cayenne Pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Perfect if you like an extra bit of heat in your chili.
- Plain Greek Yogurt or Light Sour Cream (½ cup) – This ingredient makes the chili creamy without being too heavy. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based alternative.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, bringing out their natural flavors.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh Cilantro & Lime Wedges (for garnish) – Cilantro adds freshness, and lime juice brings a tangy contrast to the creamy chili.
Steps to Make White Chicken Chili
Making White Chicken Chili is simple and requires just a few easy steps. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and ensure a creamy, well-balanced consistency.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it releases the natural sweetness of the onions, which adds depth to the chili. Next, add the minced garlic and stir continuously for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and affect the overall taste.
Step 2: Add the Spices and Green Chilies
Once the onions and garlic are fragrant, stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper if using. Cooking the spices for about 1-2 minutes allows them to toast slightly, bringing out their full depth of flavor. Then, add the diced green chilies, stirring everything together to evenly coat the ingredients with the aromatic spices. This step helps build the flavor foundation of the chili, ensuring a rich and well-seasoned final dish.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Beans, and Broth
Add the shredded chicken, drained white beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, making sure the flavors distribute evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the ingredients to meld together. The broth will absorb the seasonings and become infused with the smoky and spicy flavors from the earlier steps.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Let the chili simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to deepen and intensify. To achieve a creamier texture, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. This releases their natural starches, thickening the chili without the need for additional cream or thickeners.
Step 5: Stir in Greek Yogurt for Creaminess
Once the chili has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream to create a smooth and creamy consistency. Mixing it in after removing from heat ensures that the yogurt doesn’t curdle. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The bright citrusy notes from the lime will balance the richness of the chili, making each bite refreshing. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the creamy, spicy, and comforting flavors!
Serving Suggestions
White Chicken Chili pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings, making it a versatile dish. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with warm cornbread, which soaks up the chili beautifully. If you’re following a low-carb diet, cauliflower rice is a great option to serve underneath the chili, adding volume without excess carbohydrates. Another delicious idea is topping it with sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. If you love a bit of crunch, a handful of crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can add great texture and flavor.
Can We Make White Chicken Chili in Advance?
Yes, White Chicken Chili is a great make-ahead meal! If preparing in advance, follow all the steps up to simmering and thickening the chili. However, do not add the Greek yogurt or sour cream until you’re ready to serve. Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat and stir in the Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks
To enhance the flavor of White Chicken Chili, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought for a richer, deeper taste. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chili simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes uncovered. For those who like spicier food, adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper can give the chili a stronger kick. To make the dish even more filling, consider adding a handful of corn kernels, which will also add a touch of sweetness.
Variations of White Chicken Chili
There are several ways to customize this dish based on dietary preferences. To make it dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt for coconut milk or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with additional white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover White Chicken Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option. Pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can We Reheat White Chicken Chili?
Yes, White Chicken Chili reheats well! To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent uneven heating. If the chili thickens too much after storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Just shred it and add it to the chili.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients (except yogurt) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the yogurt before serving.
Is White Chicken Chili spicy?
It has mild heat from the green chilies and chili powder, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is a comforting, protein-packed meal that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any season. Whether you enjoy it fresh, make it ahead, or store leftovers for later, this dish remains a delicious, creamy, and satisfying option for a wholesome meal. Try it today and customize it with your favorite toppings!
