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Creamy white chicken chili is shown in a bowl, highlighting the rich texture and flavorful ingredients of this easy weeknight dinner recipe.
Lady Maria

ULTIMATE CREAMY CHICKEN CHILI

This Creamy White Chicken Chili recipe is a flavorful and comforting alternative to traditional tomato-based chili. It's easy to make, customizable, and perfect for cozy nights, game days, or potlucks. Enjoy the warm hug in a bowl with layers of deliciousness in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced optional
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips, hot sauce

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • Large pot (for boiling chicken)
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • Cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Two forks (for shredding chicken)
  • Ladle
  • Bowls for serving

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside. Save the chicken broth you used to cook the chicken for extra flavor!
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the canned green chiles, Great Northern beans, Cannellini beans, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth (and reserved broth from cooking the chicken, if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Heat through for a few minutes.
  6. Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the chili is smooth and creamy. Don't let the mixture boil after adding the cream cheese, or it might curdle.
  7. Stir in the lime juice.
  8. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, cumin, or chili powder to your liking.
  9. Ladle the Creamy White Chicken Chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla chips. Serve hot.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to prevent clumping. If you want a spicier chili, add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Consider adding a can of drained corn for a touch of sweetness.