White Chicken Chili (Easy)

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out, then this White Chicken Chili (Easy) is just what you need! This creamy and flavorful chili is not only a family favorite but also perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. The best part? It comes together in no time at all, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

What makes this White Chicken Chili so special is the delightful mix of tender shredded chicken and hearty white beans enveloped in a rich sauce. Plus, there’s a surprising secret ingredient that elevates the flavor to a whole new level! Whether you’re enjoying it on game day or simply craving something comforting, this dish is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and delicious flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chili stores well, meaning you can prepare it in advance or enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable Toppings: With so many delicious toppings to choose from, everyone can make their bowl just how they like it!
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this meal will keep you satisfied for hours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the best White Chicken Chili you’ve ever tasted!

For the Chili Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 5 cloves garlic (about 1 tablespoon minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 (1-ounce) package Ranch seasoning (dry)
• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel (or a can of diced tomatoes)
• 1 (7-ounce can) diced green chilies (I like the fire roasted kind)

For the Beans and Chicken

• 1 (14-ounce) can white beans (navy beans or cannellini, drained)
• 1 (14-ounce) can pinto beans (drained)
• 2 & 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (about 12 ounces)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened; low fat cream cheese is fine)

For Serving

• 1 & 1/2 cups frozen corn (or canned corn is fine)
• Cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Limes
• Avocado
• Jalapeno
• Green onion
• Tortilla chips

Variations

This White Chicken Chili recipe is super flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper or even some diced jalapeños during cooking.
• Change the beans: Try kidney beans or black beans instead of pinto for a different flavor profile.

How to Make White Chicken Chili (Easy)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by prepping your veggies and gathering your spices. Chop the onion and mince the garlic—these are essential for building flavor right from the start! Combine all your spices in a small bowl so they’re ready to go. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, shred it now and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat up a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil until it shimmers. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re translucent. This step releases their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Add Spices and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and add in your minced garlic along with all those lovely spices from earlier. Sauté for another couple of minutes until everything smells fragrant—this really enhances the flavors of your chili.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Chilies

Next, pour in that can of Rotel along with the diced green chilies without draining them. Stir everything together so that those spicy flavors meld perfectly with your onion mixture.

Step 5: Add Beans and Chicken

Drain both cans of beans—no need to rinse—and toss them into the pot. Then add your shredded chicken. Give everything a good stir; this creates that hearty base we all crave in chili!

Step 6: Stir In Water and Bouillon Base

Bring your chili mixture to life by stirring in water along with one tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base. Don’t forget to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; they add depth!

Step 7: Creamy Goodness!

Chop up your cream cheese into small cubes and drop them into the pot. This will make your chili irresistibly creamy as it melts down into all those other ingredients.

Step 8: Let It Simmer

Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering it back down to simmer. Let it cook for at least five minutes—or longer if you have time—to allow those flavors to deepen further. Just before serving, stir in frozen corn.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings!

Serve your chili hot! It’s delicious on its own but don’t skip out on those toppings—shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges…the options are endless!

And there you have it—an easy recipe that brings comfort food right into your kitchen! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making White Chicken Chili (Easy)

Making the perfect White Chicken Chili is all about the little details that can elevate your dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chili turns out delicious every time!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opting for rotisserie chicken not only saves you time but also adds a depth of flavor that enhances your chili. The seasoned chicken brings in an extra layer of taste that shredded raw chicken just can’t match.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Don’t hesitate to modify the spice levels based on your family’s preference. If you like it spicier, add more crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños. For a milder version, simply reduce the spices; this way, everyone can enjoy it without fear of heat!

• Let It Simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. If you have the time, let it simmer for up to an hour. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive and rich flavor profile.

• Cream Cheese Variations: If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to try something different, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. It still offers creaminess but gives a tangy twist while being lower in fat.

• Store with Care: When storing leftovers, make sure to keep them in airtight containers. This helps prevent any loss of flavor and keeps your chili tasting fresh when you reheat it later.

How to Serve White Chicken Chili (Easy)

Serving White Chicken Chili can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this comforting dish into an impressive meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness and freshness that beautifully complements the creamy chili.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and texture, making each bite delightful!

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with chili and is great for soaking up those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the creamy chili, balancing out the meal.
• Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for added substance. The rice absorbs some of the sauce, making each bite absolutely scrumptious!
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the spice and creaminess of the chili—plus, who doesn’t love guac?

Now you have everything you need to enjoy this White Chicken Chili (Easy) in style! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy bellies. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy White Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also stores beautifully for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for 3-5 days.
• Make sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent condensation build-up.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into ziplock bags or freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy serving, try to flatten the bags to save space in your freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe!

Can I make White Chicken Chili (Easy) without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative or omit it altogether for a lighter version. The chili will still be full of flavor!

How long does it take to prepare White Chicken Chili (Easy)?

With just 20 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, you can have this delicious dish ready in about 30 minutes!

What toppings go well with White Chicken Chili (Easy)?

Toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, cilantro, jalapeños, green onions, and tortilla chips add great flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative!

Can I use canned chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Canned chicken works well as a convenient alternative. Just drain it before adding to the chili.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can omit crushed red pepper and jalapeños for a milder version or add more if you enjoy extra heat!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy White Chicken Chili as much as I do! It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor – perfect for cozy nights at home or sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings and personalize it to your liking. Happy cooking!