The Heartiest Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe Ever Made

Culinary magic happens when a classic white chicken chili recipe bursts with unexpected flavor and comfort.

Warm spices dance through tender chicken and creamy beans, creating a soul-satisfying meal.

Southwest inspirations blend seamlessly in this hearty dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Lean protein and rich textures combine to make each spoonful deeply satisfying.

Comfort emerges from simple ingredients transformed by clever seasoning and careful preparation.

Pantry staples become extraordinary when mixed with love and a dash of creativity.

FAQs

• Is white chicken chili spicy?

The heat level is mild to moderate. Cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can adjust by reducing or omitting it for a milder version.

• Can I use different beans?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans work great, you can substitute with great northern beans or navy beans for similar texture and flavor.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-sodium chicken broth, lean chicken breast, and reduce cheese quantity. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken are perfect. If cooking chicken specifically for this dish, shredded chicken breast or thigh meat will work wonderfully.

What Makes Classic White Chicken Chili a Staple

• Quicken Weeknight Meals: Whip up this satisfying chili in less than an hour, perfect for busy families needing a delicious dinner solution.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels, adding extra toppings, or swapping ingredients to match your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Experience a creamy, hearty dish that delivers warmth and rich flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for any gathering or cozy night in.
• Nutrition Packed: Loaded with protein from chicken, fiber-rich beans, and a variety of vegetables, this chili offers a balanced and wholesome meal in one pot.

Ingredients for Classic White Chicken Chili

• Shredded Chicken: The primary protein that provides hearty texture and flavor to the chili.

• Chicken Broth: Creates the foundational liquid for the chili and adds depth of flavor.
• Neufchatel Cheese: Provides a creamy and rich consistency to the chili.

• Onion, Garlic: Classic aromatic base that builds a robust flavor profile for the chili.
• Green Chilies: Adds a mild heat and fresh pepper flavor to the dish.
• Corn: Brings a sweet and tender component to the chili.
• Cannellini Beans: Offers additional protein and creamy texture.

• Cumin, Paprika, Oregano, Coriander, Cayenne Pepper: Blend of spices that creates a complex and warm flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance overall taste.

• Lime Juice: Provides a bright, acidic balance to the rich chili.
• Cilantro: Adds fresh, herbal notes to the dish.

• Tortilla Chips, Monterrey Jack Cheese, Avocado Slices: Optional toppings that add texture and additional flavor.

How to Make Classic White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatic Onions

Heat olive oil in a spacious pot over medium flame.

Toss in diced onions and let them dance and soften, transforming into a translucent golden treasure in about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Awaken Garlic’s Magic

Sprinkle minced garlic into the pot and let it release its enchanting aroma for 1-2 minutes until it becomes gloriously fragrant.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

• Chicken broth
• Green chilies
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Oregano
• Coriander
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything enthusiastically and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Create Creamy Texture

Melt Neufchatel cheese into the broth, stirring until it becomes silky smooth and luxurious.

Step 5: Combine Hearty Ingredients

• Corn
• Cannellini beans
• Shredded chicken

Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle and develop a harmonious profile.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Squeeze fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro.

Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.

Step 7: Serve With Flair

Ladle into bowls and top with optional garnishes like extra cilantro, crispy tortilla chips, melted Monterrey Jack cheese, and creamy avocado slices.

Pro Tips for Classic White Chicken Chili

• Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and create a healthier version of the chili.
• Replace Neufchatel cheese with Greek yogurt or light cream cheese for a lower-fat option that maintains creamy texture.
• Add extra protein by incorporating quinoa or additional shredded chicken for a more filling meal.
• Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to match your heat preference, starting with less and gradually increasing for personalized flavor.
• Prepare the chili in advance and store in the refrigerator, as flavors develop and become more robust overnight.

Variations on Classic White Chicken Chili

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace Neufchatel cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version that maintains creamy texture.
• Spicy Southwestern Spin: Add diced jalapeños and swap cannellini beans with black beans for a bolder, more intense flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Lean Option: Substitute corn with cauliflower rice and use turkey instead of chicken for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that cuts down on carbohydrates.
• Vegetarian Protein Power: Use plant-based chicken substitute or extra firm tofu instead of chicken, and add quinoa for additional protein and texture.

Serving Ideas for Classic White Chicken Chili

• Hearty Meal Companion: Serve this chili alongside warm, crusty cornbread for a perfect comfort food pairing that soaks up all the delicious broth.
• Zesty Topping Extravaganza: Sprinkle extra shredded Monterrey Jack cheese, add a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with fresh jalapeño slices for an extra kick of flavor and texture.
• Meal Prep Magic: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, and the flavors will continue to develop, making each reheated serving even more delicious and satisfying.
• Texture Boost: Crumble crispy tortilla chips directly on top just before serving to add a crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chili base.

Storing Classic White Chicken Chili

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer chili to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place chili in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Pour chili into a saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore original consistency. Heat until steaming hot throughout.

Classic White Chicken Chili Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Savor hearty Mexican-inspired Classic White Chicken Chili, packed with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and zesty green chiles. Green onion garnishes and rich sour cream complete this comforting bowl that welcomes hungry diners to enjoy a soul-warming meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2.5 cups shredded cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken
• 2 (15 ounces/425 grams) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 (14.5 ounces/411 grams) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 14 cups frozen or fresh corn

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1.5 teaspoons cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons paprika
• 0.5 teaspoons dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoons ground coriander
• 0.25 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Other Ingredients:

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (7 ounces/198 grams) can diced green chilies
• 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) package Neufchatel cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving
• Tortilla chips, Monterrey Jack cheese, sliced avocado for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium temperature, sautéing diced onions until translucent and soft, approximately 4 minutes.
2. Introduce minced garlic and cook briefly, releasing aromatic flavors for about 1 minute.
3. Combine chicken broth with green chilies, spices (cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne), and seasoning. Whisk thoroughly and allow mixture to gently simmer.
4. Incorporate Neufchatel cheese, stirring continuously until completely dissolved and creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Fold in corn, cannellini beans, and shredded chicken. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, ensuring ingredients are thoroughly heated and flavors meld together.
6. Enhance the chili with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for balanced flavor profile.
7. Ladle into serving bowls and optionally garnish with additional cilantro, crisp tortilla chips, melted Monterrey Jack cheese, and creamy avocado slices.

Notes

• Boost flavor by using homemade chicken broth for a richer, more complex taste profile.
• Select bone-in chicken breasts or thighs and shred them manually for more tender, juicy meat texture.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting cayenne pepper amount or adding diced jalapeños for extra spiciness.
• Make it dairy-free by substituting Neufchatel cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 215 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg