White Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, packed with layers of flavor, and just a little bit different from your everyday chili, this White Chicken Chili Recipe is the answer. It’s creamy, zesty, and has just the right amount of spice to warm you up from the inside out. With tender shredded chicken, buttery beans, vibrant corn, and a touch of tanginess from lime and cilantro, this dish feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly night or serving it at a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and versatile are the best words to describe the ingredients for this White Chicken Chili Recipe. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s creating a rich base, adding texture, or enhancing the flavor with a little kick of heat and some aromatic herbs.

• Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, savory foundation when sautéed to soften and caramelize flavors.
• Olive oil: Perfect for gently cooking your aromatics without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Garlic cloves: Adds depth and a subtle pungency that complements the spices.
• Chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base that all the ingredients simmer in, giving the chili a rich essence.
• Diced green chilies: Bring a mild heat and a bright, slightly tangy note to the pot.
• Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy spice that ties the dish together beautifully.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and rich color without too much heat.
• Oregano: Introduces a herbaceous background flavor, rounding out the spice profile.
• Coriander: For a citrusy, lemony undertone that brightens the chili.
• Cayenne: Brings a controlled heat level that makes the chili pop without overwhelming.
• Salt + black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every flavor.
• Neufchatel cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild tang, melting into the chili to create a luscious texture.
• Corn: Sweet kernels that add a lovely crunch and color contrast.
• Cannellini beans: Hearty and creamy, they bulk up the chili while absorbing all those delicious spices.
• Cooked shredded chicken: The star protein that makes this chili filling and satisfying.
• Lime juice: Injects a zesty brightness that lifts the entire dish.
• Cilantro: Fresh herbaceous finish that adds vibrancy and a pop of green.

How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation that’s crucial for the chili’s depth.

Step 2: Build the Broth Base

Pour in the chicken broth and then stir in diced green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Bringing these ingredients together creates a complex and inviting broth that’s the heart of the dish. Give it a good stir to combine all those beautiful spices evenly.

Step 3: Add Beans and Corn

Drain and rinse your cannellini beans before adding them into the pot along with the corn kernels. These ingredients contribute creamy texture and sweet bursts of flavor, harmonizing perfectly with the seasoned broth.

Step 4: Stir in Chicken and Cheese

Add the cooked shredded chicken to the pot and gently mix in cubes of Neufchatel cheese. The cheese will melt into the chili, creating a rich, creamy texture while the chicken makes the dish hearty enough to be a meal in itself.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Let the chili simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just before serving, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.

How to Serve White Chicken Chili Recipe

Garnishes

The perfect garnishes can take your White Chicken Chili Recipe to the next level. Try topping it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add cool creaminess. A sprinkle of shredded cheese, some sliced avocado, or a few extra cilantro leaves bring layers of texture and freshness.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or tortilla chips, which are perfect for scooping up every last delicious bite. A crisp green salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich, creamy chili.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chili in bread bowls or over a bed of rice. You can also spoon it into small, individual bowls for a cozy dinner party. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime right at the table encourages guests to customize their bowls just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover white chicken chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making your leftovers even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This White Chicken Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through ensures even heating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for the White Chicken Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred the meat and add it to the chili when directed. It’s a convenient shortcut without sacrificing flavor.

Is Neufchatel cheese essential or can I substitute it?

Neufchatel cheese adds creaminess with less fat, but you can substitute it with cream cheese or even sour cream if needed. Each option will slightly change the texture but keep delicious results.

How spicy is this White Chicken Chili Recipe?

The chili has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the green chilies and cayenne. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne or swapping it out for a milder chili powder.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with extra beans, vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth. The spice blend and creamy cheese will keep it hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it seems too thin?

Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce liquid. Alternatively, mash a few beans in the pot to release starch and thicken naturally. Adding extra cheese can also help create a creamier, thicker texture.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili Recipe is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect any time you want something nourishing yet exciting. I encourage you to try it, experiment with your favorite toppings, and make it a staple in your kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home, whether for a weeknight dinner or cozy weekend gathering.

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