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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for chilly days. Made with tender chicken, cannellini beans, green chilies, and a smooth, creamy broth infused with warm spices like cumin and oregano, it offers a mild yet flavorful meal that’s easy to customize and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream

Beans and Vegetables

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 4 cups chicken broth

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Shredded cheese
  • Diced avocado
  • Lime wedges
  • Sour cream dollop
  • Crispy bacon bits or toasted pepitas

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, to build the foundational flavor.
  2. Add the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, to keep it juicy.
  3. Combine the Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth along with the rinsed cannellini beans and diced green chilies. Stir to combine, bringing heartiness and classic flavor to the chili.
  4. Season the Chili: Sprinkle in ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the mixture with spices, infusing warmth and complexity into the broth.
  5. Simmer Until Tender: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
  6. Stir in Cream: Remove from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream or sour cream to achieve a luscious, velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh cumin and oregano for the best flavor.
  • Cook chicken just until juices run clear to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Simmer low and slow to meld flavors without breaking down the beans.
  • Add cream gradually and taste as you go for preferred creaminess.
  • Garnish generously with fresh herbs and toppings to add texture and brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, creamy chicken chili, easy chili recipe, gluten free chili, comfort food, mild chili, healthy chili