Name: Easy White Chicken Chili: A Creamy Twist You'll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil.); 1 cup Onion (Chopped; shallots can be used as a milder alternative.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; fresh or minced works equally well.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian version.); 1 can Canned Great Northern Beans (Drained and rinsed; can substitute with white navy or cannellini beans.); 1 can Canned Mild Green Chilis (Choose hotter varieties for more heat.); 2 cups Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can use shredded rotisserie chicken.); 1 cup Corn Kernels (Frozen corn can be used.); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder; 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Sour Cream (Can mix with broth to prevent curdling; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.); 1/4 cup Cornmeal (Optional, helps thicken; omit if you prefer a thinner texture.)

On chilly evenings, there's nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a bowl of chili. Imagine coming home after a long day, the enticing aroma of spices mingling with the creaminess of tender chicken freshly simmered on the stove. This Easy White Chicken Chili is my go-to recipe, effortlessly blending the cozy essence of traditional chili with a lighter, creamy twist that leaves everyone feeling satisfied without the heaviness.

In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that marries pulled chicken, hearty beans, and a splash of cool sour cream for a creamy touch. It's an ideal weeknight dinner, whether you're cooking for your family or hosting friends. I can't wait for you to try this dish that's not only quick and healthy but also poised to become a new favorite in your kitchen rotation. Let's dive into the savory details of this delicious recipe together!

Why is this Easy White Chicken Chili special?

Effortless Preparation: This chili can be made in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Delight: The smooth textures created by sour cream elevate the dish, offering a comforting experience.
Nutritious Twist: Packed with wholesome ingredients like beans and chicken, it's a hearty yet healthy option.
Versatile Choice: Easily customize it with spices or veggies to suit your taste, making it perfect for any gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Everyone loves a good chili, and this creamy variation is sure to impress your friends and family! For more quick options, check out my easy chicken recipes.

Easy White Chicken Chili Ingredients

Get ready to create a comforting bowl of deliciousness!

For the Base

Olive Oil - Provides a base for sautéing, but you can substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
Onion - Adds depth and sweetness; shallots are a great milder alternative.
Garlic - This aromatic element enhances overall flavor; fresh or minced garlic works equally well.

For the Chili

Chicken Broth - Adds richness; feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Canned Great Northern Beans - Acts as a protein source and thickener; white navy or cannellini beans make good substitutes.
Canned Mild Green Chilis - Offers heat and flavor; choose hotter varieties if you prefer extra spice.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts - The main protein; shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient swap.
Corn Kernels - Adds sweetness and texture; frozen corn is a quick alternative.

For Seasoning

Chili Powder, Ground Cumin, Dried Oregano, Salt, Black Pepper - This spice blend elevates the dish; adjust spices to match your taste.

For Creaminess

Sour Cream - Provides a silky creaminess; mix it with broth to prevent curdling; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
Optional Cornmeal - Helps thicken the chili; omit if you prefer a thinner texture.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let the cozy cooking begin!

How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili

Heat Oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Once shimmering, add chopped onions and sauté for about 4 minutes until they soften and become translucent-this brings out their natural sweetness!
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, allowing it to become fragrant and flavorful, stirring gently to avoid burning.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in chicken broth, drained and rinsed Great Northern beans, canned green chilis, cooked chicken, corn, and your spice blend. Bring this delicious mix to a boil, then decrease the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes until everything is cooked through and aromatic.
Incorporate Creaminess: In a mixing bowl, blend the sour cream with a few spoonfuls of the hot chili to temper it, ensuring it doesn't curdle. Then, stir this mixture back into the pot for that dreamy creaminess throughout the chili.
Serve Warm: Ladle the creamy chili into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth! Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings if needed for that perfect balance!

Optional: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Easy White Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to get creative with this creamy chili and make it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a lighter, dairy-free twist.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate chopped kale or spinach for added greens and nutrients; they will wilt beautifully in the warm chili.
Bean Medley: Mix in other beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for a varied texture and flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, stirred in before serving for a refreshing touch.
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a zesty contrast.
Quinoa Addition: For added heartiness and protein, stir in cooked quinoa at the end; it mixes well and complements the chili nicely.
Creamy Vegan Option: Use coconut milk instead of broth for an ultra-creamy, rich texture that keeps it vegan-friendly.

With these variations, your Easy White Chicken Chili can take on exciting new dimensions!

Expert Tips for Easy White Chicken Chili

• Tempering Sour Cream: Always temper the sour cream with hot broth before adding it to the chili to prevent curdling and maintain a creamy consistency.

• Thickening Tips: For a heartier texture, you can add up to ¼ cup of cornmeal at the end. Just stir it in gradually and let it simmer until thickened.

• Flavor Adjustments: Don't hesitate to experiment with additional spices or hot sauces to elevate the flavor profile of your Easy White Chicken Chili to suit your taste.

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to toss in leftover vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutrition boost and to make the dish even more satisfying.

• Storage Savvy: This chili can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for a quick meal later, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy schedules.

How to Store and Freeze Easy White Chicken Chili

Fridge: This chili can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Easy White Chicken Chili in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When it's time to enjoy your chili again, thoroughly reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. If it thickens, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare a double batch of this chili, and enjoy the convenience of having a quick, delicious meal on hand whenever you need it!

What to Serve with Easy White Chicken Chili?

Imagine gathering around the table, each bite of the creamy chili warming your soul while delicious side dishes complete your meal.

Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for dipping, this bread soaks up the creamy goodness, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.
Cornbread Muffins: Their slight sweetness and crumbly texture beautifully complement the chili's spiciness, adding a delightful contrast to the meal.
Avocado Salad: Fresh, creamy avocado mixed with bright lime juice elevates the meal's freshness and adds a crunchy texture to balance the chili's warmth.
Steamed Rice: A light bed of fluffy rice absorbs the flavors, enhancing the heartiness without overpowering the dish. It's a comforting combination!
Tortilla Chips: These crunchy chips not only add texture but are also fun for scooping up the chili, making every bite exciting and interactive.
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita adds a zesty twist, elevating your dining experience and offering a wonderful contrast to the spicy chili.
Cheesy Quesadillas: A side of melty cheese-filled quesadillas pairs wonderfully, offering indulgence while perfectly balancing the lightness of the chili.
Sour Cream Topping: Additional sour cream or Greek yogurt on top enhances creaminess, providing a cool and tangy finish to each bowl of chili.
Spinach Salad: A light, vibrant spinach salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness and add a burst of color to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy White Chicken Chili preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the onions and garlic, and combine the canned ingredients up to 24 hours ahead. Additionally, you can even cook the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply bring your prepared ingredients to a boil, simmer, and incorporate the tempered sour cream for a creamy finish, ensuring the chili tastes just as delightful as when freshly made. This way, you'll have a delicious homemade meal waiting for you, offering warmth and comfort with minimal effort!

Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my chili?
Absolutely! For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they provide a tender base for the chili. If you're looking for convenience, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, cutting down your prep time. Just make sure it's freshly cooked for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover Easy White Chicken Chili?
Very easily! Transfer leftover chili into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For the best texture, let it cool completely before sealing. This way, you can savor your creamy goodness later!

Can I freeze Easy White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! To freeze, make sure your chili has cooled down, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my chili is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your chili has thickened too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help bring back the creaminess without diluting the flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still add the Great Northern beans for protein, ensuring your creamy chili remains satisfying and delicious!

Is this chili pet-friendly?
It's best to keep this chili away from pets, especially due to ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to them. If you want to share a treat with your furry friend, consider making a special pet-safe meal instead!