If you are looking for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out while being bursting with flavor, this Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, savory, and just the right amount of spicy, this dish blends tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and hearty white beans into a harmony of texture and taste. It’s perfect for cozy nights or anytime you crave a satisfying bowl of chili with a delicious twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in building its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavor. From tender chicken breasts to zesty spices and creamy cheese, every element works together beautifully.
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein base that becomes tender and flavorful when seasoned and cooked properly.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Gives a classic earthiness typical of chili dishes.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Brings subtle herbal notes that brighten the chili.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adjust this for your preferred spice level – it’s the spicy heart of the recipe.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies, adding richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture after being softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that lifts the flavor.
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies: Adds a mild heat and freshness to the chili.
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed: Cannellini or great northern beans add creamy texture and hearty substance.
- 1 cup frozen corn: Adds natural sweetness and a satisfying pop in every bite.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful, savory base of the chili.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that makes this chili so indulgent.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Melts beautifully to give a silky, rich finish.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a mild, creamy cheese flavor that blends perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a bright pop of citrus that balances the richness.
- Sour cream: For garnish – creamy and cool contrast to the warm chili.
- Chopped cilantro: Fresh herbal note to lift the dish at the end.
- Sliced jalapeños: Optional for those who like an extra kick.
- Additional shredded cheese: To sprinkle on top for melty goodness.
How to Make Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. This careful seasoning is crucial as it infuses the chicken with the deep, complex flavors that will permeate the entire dish, making sure every bite tastes amazing.
Step 2: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook the seasoned chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked and beautifully browned. Then remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices lock in. Once cooled slightly, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces to add back into the chili later.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. This step develops a sweet and savory base, building layers of flavor right from the start.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients and Simmer
Add the diced green chilies, white beans, corn, chicken broth, and shredded chicken to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering melds the flavors together and allows the beans to absorb the aromatic broth, resulting in a deeply flavorful chili.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Keep stirring occasionally until the cheeses melt completely and the chili turns luxuriously creamy. This is the heart of what makes this Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe so irresistible and comforting.
Step 6: Brighten with Lime Juice
Add fresh lime juice to the pot for a burst of bright citrus flavor that cuts through the richness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to perfectly balance every flavor note.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls and get creative with your favorite garnishes. Top with sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese. These finishing touches not only add flavor but also elevate the presentation.
How to Serve Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are your chance to personalize this chili and add exciting textures and flavors. A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling contrast, while chopped cilantro adds a fresh herbal brightness. Sliced jalapeños lend a fresh spicy kick, and extra shredded cheese melts on top for gooey indulgence.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for scooping. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess or some steamed rice to soak up every last delicious bit of the chili.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this chili in rustic bread bowls for a cozy appeal or topping it with crunchy tortilla strips for textural contrast. For a fun twist, turn leftovers into chili-stuffed baked potatoes or use the chili as a flavorful base for nachos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delicious second helping.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chili in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing. This way, you’ll have a ready-to-go, comforting meal anytime you need it.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the creaminess, restoring its perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer meat that stays extra juicy and flavorful. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to make sure they are fully cooked and tender before shredding.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe has a mild to moderate spice level, mainly from the chili powder and diced green chilies. You can easily adjust the heat to your liking by reducing or increasing the amount of chili powder or adding jalapeños.
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to cook the beans separately until tender before adding them into the chili. Canned beans are convenient and save time, but fresh-cooked beans can add a homey touch if you have the time.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the chili won’t be as rich and creamy. For dairy-free versions, consider coconut milk, but this will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken, onions, and garlic on the stove first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the other ingredients (except the cream and cheeses). Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese at the end until melted.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe when you want something tasty, hearty, and soul-warming. It’s a dish that feels special yet is so easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to comfort foods that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and creamy Classic White Chicken Chili featuring tender chicken breasts simmered with white beans, corn, and green chilies, enriched with creamy cheeses and a hint of lime for a balanced, hearty meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for desired spice level)
Vegetables and Broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (for garnish)
- Additional shredded cheese (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Combine salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder, then rub this seasoning mix evenly over the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from the pot and allow them to rest briefly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, enhancing the base flavor.
- Add Main Ingredients: Stir in diced green chilies, drained white beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Incorporate the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese into the chili. Stir occasionally to melt the cheeses smoothly, resulting in a rich and creamy texture.
- Finish with Lime: Stir in fresh lime juice to brighten the chili’s flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary to achieve the desired balance.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the white chicken chili into individual bowls and garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and extra shredded cheese as desired for added creaminess and spice.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder to taste depending on your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with a mild cheddar for variation.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste great reheated.
- Adding a dash of hot sauce can increase the heat if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
