Oh, chili season! Is there anything better than coming in from the cold to a big, steaming bowl of comfort? I don’t think so! And while I love a classic red chili, I’ve gotta say, this white chicken chili recipe is a total game-changer.
I’ve messed around with chili recipes for years, trying different beans, meats (or no meat!), spices… you name it! But there’s something just *so* satisfying about this creamy, dreamy version. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s honestly one of the easiest things I make. Plus, it’s way more exciting than the usual! If you’re looking for a comforting, easy dish that’ll warm you from the inside out, trust me, this white chicken chili recipe is IT!
Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili Recipe
Okay, so why *this* white chicken chili? Let me tell you:
- It’s seriously easy. I mean, dump-and-go kind of easy!
- The flavor? Wow! Creamy, savory, with a little kick.
- Even the kiddos gobble it up (and that’s saying something!).
- Want more heat? Just toss in a pinch more cayenne – you’re the boss!
- And the best part? It’s ready in under an hour. Boom!
Ingredients for the Best White Chicken Chili Recipe
Alright, let’s gather up our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing white chicken chili recipe:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for White Chicken Chili Recipe
Okay, a few notes here! The Great Northern beans are my fave, but feel free to swap ’em for cannellini beans if that’s what you’ve got. Chicken broth is the way to go, but veggie broth works in a pinch. And if you’re short on time? Grab a rotisserie chicken – seriously, it’s a lifesaver! For a tangier twist, Greek yogurt works instead of sour cream. Just don’t skip the green chilies, they add *so* much flavor!
How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, this white chicken chili recipe is super simple, even if you’re not a whiz in the kitchen. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of creamy goodness in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics for Your White Chicken Chili Recipe
Grab your biggest pot and drizzle in that olive oil. Get it over medium heat, then toss in the chopped onion. Cook it ’til it’s softened and translucent – about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and green bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the veggies are fragrant and slightly tender. Mmm, can you smell it already?
Step 2: Bloom the Spices for the White Chicken Chili Recipe
Okay, this is where the magic happens! Stir in the cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly. This “blooming” process releases the spices’ oils and intensifies their flavor. Trust me, you’ll smell the difference – it’s amazing!
Step 3: Simmer the White Chicken Chili Recipe
Now, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the rinsed and drained Great Northern beans and the diced green chilies. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Finish the White Chicken Chili Recipe
Stir in the shredded chicken and heat it through – about 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream and cilantro. And that’s it! Your white chicken chili recipe is ready to serve. Get ready for some serious yum!
Tips for the Perfect White Chicken Chili Recipe
Want to take your white chicken chili recipe from good to *amazing*? Here are a few of my go-to tricks! First off, taste as you go, especially with the cayenne. If you like a little kick, go for it! If you’re spice-averse, dial it back. It’s your chili, after all!
For a super creamy texture, carefully use an immersion blender to blend up about half the chili *before* adding the chicken. This makes it extra velvety. And remember that rotisserie chicken? Huge time-saver! Finally, a squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens everything up. So good!
White Chicken Chili Recipe Variations
Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic white chicken chili recipe? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little wild! This recipe is *begging* for you to put your own spin on it. Try swapping the oregano for some fresh thyme or rosemary – yum! Roasted poblano peppers instead of green bell pepper? YES, please!
And hey, if you’re short on time, this is AMAZING in the slow cooker. Just toss everything in (except the sour cream and cilantro) and let it do its thing all day. Or, for a super-fast version, the Instant Pot is your best friend! Seriously, get creative and make this white chicken chili recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions for Your White Chicken Chili Recipe
Okay, your white chicken chili recipe is done – now what? Well, a big hunk of cornbread is *always* a winner! I also love serving it with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A dollop of avocado and a sprinkle of shredded cheese? Don’t mind if I do! Seriously, pile on your favorite toppings and dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions About White Chicken Chili Recipe
Got questions about this amazing white chicken chili recipe? I got you covered! Here are a few of the most common things folks ask me:
Can I make this white chicken chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a fantastic slow cooker white chicken chili, just toss everything (except the sour cream and cilantro!) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4. Stir in the sour cream and cilantro right before serving. Easy peasy!
Can I freeze this white chicken chili recipe?
Yep! Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop. It might be a little thicker after freezing, so add a splash of broth if needed.
How can I make this white chicken chili recipe spicier?
Easy! Add more cayenne pepper, of course! You could also toss in a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper when you sauté the onions and garlic. Or, for a smoky heat, add a pinch of chipotle powder. Just remember to taste as you go!
Estimated Nutritional Information for White Chicken Chili Recipe
Okay, so you’re curious about the nutritional info for this white chicken chili recipe? I get it! Just a heads up, though: these are *estimates*! The exact numbers will depend on the specific ingredients you use (brands, etc.), so don’t take ’em as gospel. But hey, it’s good to have a general idea, right?
Rate This White Chicken Chili Recipe!
Hey, if you try this white chicken chili recipe, I’d *love* to know what you think! Leave a comment and give it a star rating below. Happy cooking!
Print
Devastatingly Delicious White Chicken Chili Recipe in 60
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup/Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This white chicken chili recipe is a simple and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for a cozy meal and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and green bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes more.
- Stir in cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, great Northern beans, and green chilies. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and cilantro.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For a creamier chili, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the chili before adding the chicken.
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
