Warm, comforting, and still on the healthy side, white chicken chili is about to earn a permanent spot in your winter dinner rotation. This lighter twist on traditional chili swaps red sauce for tender chicken, hearty white beans, and warming spices. It’s packed with protein, great for leftovers, and comes together easily – even on a busy weeknight.
Recipe for White Chicken Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (Great Northern or cannellini)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: cilantro, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, crushed tortilla chips
Directions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts, beans, green chilies, chicken broth, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Shred and Return
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
4. Make It Creamy
Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the sour cream (or heavy cream) and lime juice and mix well.
5. Season and Serve
Adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Slow cooker version: Add everything except the dairy and lime. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in the cream cheese and sour cream at the end.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Dairy-free option: Skip the cream cheese and use coconut milk for a subtle twist.
The Best Comfort Food Comes from The Butcher Shop
White chicken chili is cozy enough for cold nights, simple enough for weeknights, and impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re serving it straight from the pot or loading it up with toppings, this chili delivers comfort in every bite.
Find extra comfort in this recipe when you get your ingredients from The Butcher Shop. We carry locally sourced meats, farm-fresh produce, and high-quality pantry essentials that you can feel good about putting on your family’s table. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.