Best White Chicken Chili Recipe

ByEmma

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place. This Best White Chicken Chili Recipe is a game-changer. It’s creamy, hearty, and has just the right amount of spice to warm you up on a chilly evening. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive in!

Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This white chicken chili is not your average soup. It’s a flavor explosion that combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and a rich broth infused with spices like cumin, garlic, and a hint of chili powder. What sets it apart?

  • It’s versatile: Perfect for stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot.
  • It’s healthy: Packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and white beans.
  • It’s crowd-pleasing: Even picky eaters will come back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chili:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (Great Northern or cannellini work great)
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (mild or hot, depending on your spice tolerance)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is best for controlling salt levels)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (for creaminess)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, roast your chicken breasts with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper before shredding them. It adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices and Chicken

Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Let the spices toast for about 30 seconds to release their flavors. Then, add the chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Shred

Let the chicken cook in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and easy to shred. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Chilies

Stir in the white beans and diced green chilies. Let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the chili is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tip: If you want an even creamier texture, blend one can of white beans before adding them to the pot. It thickens the chili beautifully!

Serving Suggestions

This white chicken chili is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:

  • Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Sides: Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad.
  • Extras: For a bit of crunch, top with crushed tortilla strips or diced jalapeños.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

  • Make-Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Make it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: This chili freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Final Thoughts

This Best White Chicken Chili Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—comforting, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can tweak it to suit your taste buds.

So, grab your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking playlist, and get ready to make a chili that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.

Happy cooking! 🥄

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