Print

White Chicken Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 74 reviews

This comforting White Chicken Chili is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy dinners, it combines the warmth of cumin, chili powder, and paprika with the freshness of cilantro and a zesty hint of lime, all simmered to perfection in a single pot.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned, drained
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, white beans, diced green chilies, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Finish the Chili: Stir in the corn and heavy cream (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  4. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with sour cream for a tangier finish or leave it out for a lighter chili.
  • Use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy prep.
  • Adjust the level of heat by adding diced jalapeños or extra green chilies if desired.
  • This chili freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or avocado slices for extra texture and flavor.