Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving of white chicken chili with toppings like avocado, lime, and cilantro.

Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

This White Chicken Chili Recipe is a cozy, flavorful twist on classic chili creamy, hearty, and full of Southwest flavor! Tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and warm spices come together in a rich, creamy broth. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, and even better with a sprinkle of cheese and a squeeze of lime!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 330 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
2 cans white beans cannellini or Great Northern, drained and rinsed
1 can mild green chiles
3 cups chicken broth
1 small onion chopped
3 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
4 ounces cream cheese cut into cubes
½ cup sour cream optional for extra creaminess
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Optional:

If you prefer spice, you can use hot green chiles or add a diced jalapeño.

Substitutions:

Use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
For a dairy-free version use coconut milk instead of cream cheese.
Add corn or diced bell peppers for extra texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the base

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add spices

Stir in cumin and chili powder. Let the spices cook for 30 seconds. This helps bring out their flavor before adding the liquids.

Step 3: Add chicken, beans, and broth

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, white beans, and green chiles. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the broth to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Make it creamy

Lower the heat and add cream cheese. Stir until it melts and the soup turns creamy. If you like it richer, mix in sour cream at the end.

Step 6: Taste and serve

Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

Use cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie for convenience.
Great Northern or cannellini beans give a creamy texture.
Simmer with green chilies and mild spices for balanced flavor.
Thicken with a bit of mashed beans or a cornstarch slurry if desired.
Add a splash of lime juice for brightness before serving.
Top with sour cream, cheese, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream or cheese.
Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for easy meal prep.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Keyword Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe