White Chicken Chili: A Cozy, Comforting Bowl of Flavor
There’s something irresistibly cozy about a steaming bowl of chili on a cool evening, but if you’re looking for a lighter, creamy alternative to the traditional red chili, white chicken chili is the perfect answer. It’s hearty yet delicate, full of savory flavors, and sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is quick to make, full of healthy ingredients, and offers all the warmth you need with a few layers of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cubed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (4 oz) can green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans (Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Shredded cheese, jalapeños, or avocado for topping (optional)
Directions
1. Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the green chilies, cumin, chili powder, coriander, and smoked paprika (if using). Let these spices toast for 30 seconds to a minute to release their full flavor. This step deepens the complexity of the chili, creating a delicious foundation.
3. Simmer the Chili
Add the white beans, corn, and chicken broth to the pot. Return the browned chicken to the mixture and bring everything to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Creamy Goodness
Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt for that signature creamy texture. For an added burst of brightness, squeeze in the lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve
Serve your white chicken chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. You can also add shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado to give your bowl a personal touch. A side of warm cornbread or tortilla chips pairs perfectly with this dish.
Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili
• Make It Heartier: If you like a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot. This will give the chili a richer, more velvety texture.
• Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the aromatics.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is great for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or roasted turkey. Simply shred and add it during the simmering step for an even faster meal.
This white chicken chili is creamy, flavorful, and the perfect comforting dish for a chilly night. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Don’t forget to grab your copy of my Ultimate Pantry Essentials Checklist, which will help you keep your kitchen stocked with all the ingredients you need to whip up delicious meals like this one at any time!
