White Chicken Chili

Name: White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion (diced); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 (14-ounce) cans great Northern beans (drained); 2 (4-ounce) cans mild green chiles; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced); 1 cup corn kernels; chili powder; ground cumin; dried oregano; salt; black pepper; ⅔ cup sour cream

Published: October 6, 2025

by eva

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This White Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on the traditional chili. It’s packed with flavor and made healthier, featuring tender chicken breasts, creamy beans, and zesty green chilies. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Healthier Alternative: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich beans, this version of chili is lighter than traditional recipes without sacrificing taste.
Flavor-Packed: With the perfect blend of spices and creamy sour cream, every spoonful bursts with flavor that will please your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion! Serve it at family dinners, game nights, or even as a comforting lunch.
Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make this White Chicken Chili, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking for all ingredients while preventing spills.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures efficient chopping of onions and garlic, speeding up prep time.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion (diced)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
2 cups chicken broth
2 (14-ounce cans) great Northern beans (drained)
2 (4-ounce cans) mild green chiles (with juices)
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
1 cup corn kernels
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Finish

⅔ cup sour cream

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onions and cook for about 4 minutes until they are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken broth to the pot along with the drained beans, green chiles (including juices), diced chicken, corn kernels, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to low heat.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 3: Stir in Sour Cream

In a small bowl, add the sour cream.
Pour about 1/2 cup of the hot chili into the sour cream and mix until well combined—this helps prevent curdling.
Pour this mixture back into the chili pot and stir until everything is well mixed together.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy White Chicken Chili!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

Serving White Chicken Chili can be as creative as you like. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various toppings and sides. Here are some excellent suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings for White Chicken Chili

Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Shredded Cheese: Add a handful of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for creaminess.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spices.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the texture and provides healthy fats.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Accompaniments

Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a classic pairing with chili.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add a delightful texture contrast when dipped into the chili.
Rice: Offer white or brown rice as a hearty base for those who love extra carbs.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To get the most out of your White Chicken Chili, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions significantly enhance the flavor compared to dried options.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add jalapeños or use spicier green chiles.
Thicken It Up: For a thicker chili, mash some beans against the pot’s side before stirring them in.
Slow Cook Option: For deeper flavors, prepare it in a slow cooker—just cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different garnishes like crispy bacon bits or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing your White Chicken Chili with the right side dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of chili with its buttery, garlicky goodness.
Simple Salad: A light mixed green salad complements the hearty chili without overpowering it.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese offer a cheesy delight alongside your chili.
Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes loaded with butter and herbs for a comforting side that pairs well with chili.
Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and balances out the creaminess of the chili.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a nutritious and vibrant addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making White Chicken Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Always simmer just until cooked through.
Skipping the sour cream mixing step: Adding sour cream directly can cause it to curdle. Mix it with a bit of hot chili first for a creamy texture.
Overloading on spices: Too much chili powder or cumin can overpower the dish. Measure carefully and taste as you go.
Not using enough liquid: If your chili is too thick, it won’t have that comforting consistency. Always add sufficient broth to achieve your desired thickness.
Neglecting to drain beans: Using un-drained canned beans can lead to excess liquid and change the flavor. Always drain them well before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave space at the top of the container as the chili may expand when frozen.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making White Chicken Chili.

What is White Chicken Chili?

White Chicken Chili is a creamy and flavorful dish made with chicken, beans, green chiles, and spices. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional chili.

Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Just add all ingredients except sour cream into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in sour cream before serving.

Is White Chicken Chili spicy?

It has mild flavors but can be adjusted based on your preference. Use spicier green chiles or add jalapeños for more heat if desired.

How do I customize my White Chicken Chili?

You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or use different types of beans. Adjust spices according to your taste for a personalized touch.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker and adds great flavor.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is not only quick and easy but also deliciously comforting. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as extra veggies or different spices, to suit your tastes!

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