If you’re craving a hearty bowl of comfort that comes together in a flash, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Easy White Chicken Chili. This recipe blends tender chicken, creamy beans, colorful veggies, and soul-warming spices to create a bowl of chili that’s as satisfying as it is simple. It’s the kind of dish you turn to again and again when you need a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with friends—it never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Easy White Chicken Chili a constant on so many tables is the way modest pantry staples transform into something truly special. Every ingredient pulls its weight: bringing flavor, texture, richness, and just the right pop of color or zip of heat.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base and helps sauté the vegetables for deeper flavor.
- Onion: Lends sweetness and savoriness, the aromatic foundation of every great chili.
- Bell pepper: Brings a gentle crunch and gorgeous color with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Garlic: Gives a subtle, zesty kick that makes every spoonful shine.
- Cooked chicken (shredded): The protein hero—use rotisserie or leftover chicken for total ease.
- Great northern or cannellini beans: They’re creamy but hold their shape, balancing out the heat and making the chili hearty.
- Diced green chiles: Add just the right amount of mild heat and a southwestern flair.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Bathes all the ingredients, making the chili brothy but rich, and not overly salty.
- Chili powder: For a gentle, classic depth of chili flavor that’s not overwhelming.
- Ground cumin: Offers those warm, earthy, almost smoky notes that unmistakably say “chili.”
- Dried oregano: Lifts up the other spices and herbal notes so every bite feels layered.
- Cayenne pepper: Make it as mild or as zippy as you like—totally customizable heat!
- Reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese: Melts in for a rich and creamy finish, without weighing the chili down.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Sprinkled over top, it adds a burst of color and the perfect final fresh note.
How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until everything softens and smells delicious—just a few minutes. This step builds a flavorful base that brings the whole chili together.
Step 2: Add the Proteins and Beans
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, drained beans, and the can of diced green chiles. These ingredients add body and heartiness to your Easy White Chicken Chili, turning it from a simple soup into something truly satisfying.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and a pinch (or more!) of cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all those flavors marry, making your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Let your chili bubble gently for about 10 minutes, just enough time for all the flavors to come together and the chicken to get extra tender. If you like things extra creamy, now’s the time to stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or Neufchâtel—your choice!
Step 5: Ladle and Top
When the chili is piping hot and your kitchen smells like comfort central, ladle it into big bowls. Sprinkle a handful of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a pinch of cilantro over each bowl just before serving. It’s that easy!
How to Serve Easy White Chicken Chili
Garnishes
The right garnishes take your Easy White Chicken Chili to the next level. Try extra cheese, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños for heat, or a big dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to cool things off. Don’t be shy—use what you have, and make it your own!
Side Dishes
Pair your chili with warm cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, or soft flour tortillas to scoop up every last drop. A simple side salad or avocado slices balance out the meal and add a welcome pop of color and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Easy White Chicken Chili at your next gathering in a slow cooker set to “warm” for easy self-serving, or try ladling it into small cups or ramekins for a chili tasting party. Add a toppings bar with all your favorite fixings and let everyone customize their own bowl!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors only deepen, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner something to look forward to.
Freezing
Easy White Chicken Chili freezes like a dream. Spoon it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags—just leave a bit of space for expansion. It’ll keep for up to three months. Perfect for meal prep or surprise cravings!
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s thickened up in the fridge or freezer, a splash of broth brings it right back to its original texture. Microwave works well for small portions, too!
FAQs
Can I make Easy White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the onions, bell pepper, and garlic first, then toss everything into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Add the cheese and cilantro just before serving.
How spicy is this chili?
This recipe is designed to be mild, so it’s family-friendly, but you can easily adjust the heat—just increase the cayenne or add diced fresh jalapeños if you want more kick!
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely! Leftover turkey works beautifully in this recipe and is a fantastic way to use up holiday leftovers. The flavors pair perfectly.
How do I make this chili creamier?
Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or Neufchâtel at the end of cooking for a luscious, creamy texture, or even a splash of half-and-half if you really want to indulge.
Is Easy White Chicken Chili gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check that your broth and any pre-cooked chicken are free from added gluten-containing ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Give Easy White Chicken Chili a try, and I promise it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen—quick, incredibly delicious, and endlessly adaptable. There’s nothing like a comforting bowl shared with loved ones, especially when it comes together this effortlessly!
Print
Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (~1.5 cups per serving) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Packed with tender chicken, beans, and flavorful spices, it’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Remaining Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- 4 oz reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add ingredients: Add shredded chicken, beans, green chiles, chicken broth, and spices. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to meld flavors and heat through.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top each serving with shredded cheese and cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Adjust spice level by varying cayenne to suit your taste.
- For a creamier version, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or Neufchâtel near the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 212 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 241 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 19 g
- Cholesterol: 27 mg
