White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili recipe is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it offers a delightful twist on traditional chili. Made with tender chicken, zesty green chilies, and hearty beans, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable for stove top or slow cooker methods. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor that will warm you from the inside out.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with cornbread or tortilla strips for added texture.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this chili is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of heat by adding more jalapenos or cayenne pepper according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this White Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

This White Chicken Chili recipe is easy to make on the Stove Top or in the Crock Pot! The broth has the BEST creamy white broth with cream cheese, green chilies, corn, shredded chicken, and simple seasonings.

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon each: ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, mustard powder
– 1/4 teaspoon each: black pepper, cayenne pepper
– 1 pinch red pepper flakes
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 yellow onion (diced)
– 1 large jalapeno pepper (seeded and diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1/3 cup half and half (half milk, half cream)
– 2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (drained)
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 (4 oz.) cans mild green chilies (undrained)
– 1 ½ lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast
– Salt/Pepper
– 1 (15.25 oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn (drained; can sub frozen corn)
– 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
– Lime wedges, Diced Avocado, Sour cream, Tortilla Strips, Fritos, Monterey or Pepper Jack cheese.

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Seasonings

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your chili.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper; cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle flour into the pot with sautéed vegetables and toss to coat. Cook this mixture for about two minutes to eliminate any raw flour smell.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Follow by adding half and half similarly until well combined.

Step 5: Thicken Broth

(Optional) Reserve one heaping cup of drained cannellini beans and blend it with half a cup of broth until smooth. Stir this back into the pot along with remaining whole beans to help thicken the broth if desired.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add all prepared seasonings, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green chilies into the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently uncovered for about fifteen minutes.

Step 7: Cook Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place it in the pot along with sweet corn; allow to simmer gently uncovered for an additional fifteen to twenty minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 8: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove chicken from pot and shred using two forks before returning it back into the chili mixture.

Step 9: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Lower heat to low setting; stir in softened cream cheese continuously until fully melted into your chili.

Step 10: Final Touches

Taste your chili and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving hot alongside cornbread or toppings like avocado or tortilla strips!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your chili experience.

Toppings

• Diced Avocado: Adds creaminess and freshness to each bowl.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and enriches the flavor.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.
• Tortilla Strips: Add crunch and texture to your chili with crispy tortilla strips.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your bowl for a zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: This classic pairing complements the chili’s flavors beautifully.
• Fritos: Serve with Fritos for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy soup.
• Rice: A side of rice can soak up the delicious broth and make it more filling.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

Creating the perfect White Chicken Chili involves paying attention to details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the overall flavor and texture of your chili.
• Adjust Spices Gradually: Start with less spice and taste as you go; it’s easier to add than to take away.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing your chili to simmer gently helps develop richer flavors without toughening the chicken.
• Shred Chicken Well: Shredding the chicken into small pieces allows it to distribute evenly throughout the chili, enhancing every bite.
• Experiment with Beans: Mixing different types of beans can add variety in texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Chili enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balance to the hearty chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast, perfect for dipping tortilla chips.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making them an excellent accompaniment.
4. Baked Potatoes: Soft baked potatoes can be topped with leftover chili for a satisfying second dish.
5. Cheesy Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup while adding a comforting touch.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, and cheese for an extra dose of flavor alongside your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Chicken Chili can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Bold seasoning: Using too little seasoning can make your chili bland. Ensure you follow the measurements for spices accurately and taste as you go.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking chicken too quickly at high heat can make it tough. Always simmer gently to keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Bold ignoring texture: Not blending some beans can result in a thin broth. Reserve and blend a portion of the beans for a creamier texture.
• Bold insufficient stirring: Failing to stir during cooking can cause ingredients to settle and stick to the bottom. Stir occasionally for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Bold overcooking cream cheese: Adding cream cheese too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in at low heat after removing from direct cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is White Chicken Chili?

White Chicken Chili is a creamy soup made with shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and flavorful spices. It’s perfect for any occasion!

How can I customize my White Chicken Chili?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Experimenting with various spices or using different types of cheese can also enhance its flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! White Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep.

How do I thicken my White Chicken Chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, blend some beans with broth or add more flour during cooking for extra creaminess.

Is White Chicken Chili healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, making it a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili recipe is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough for any palate. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!