Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
The Best White Chicken Chili Recipe

The Best White Chicken Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 125 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: One Pot & One Pan
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This White Chicken Chili is a comforting, hearty, and creamy twist on classic chili. Tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, mild green chilies, and a silky broth come together seasoned with warm spices and brightened with fresh lime. Perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings, this easy one-pot meal can be made on the stovetop in under an hour.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chili

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeรฑo, seeded and chopped (optional for spice)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 breasts or use rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

To Finish the Chili

  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • Juice of 1 lime

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeรฑos
  • Diced avocado
  • Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
  • Tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeรฑo, and sautรฉ for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Stir well and let the spices toast for about 1 minute, releasing their aromas.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the drained beans, green chilies, shredded chicken, corn, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
  4. Creamify the Chili: Remove from heat. Stir in the sour cream and half-and-half until the chili takes on a creamy consistency. Squeeze in the lime juice and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes: chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeรฑos, diced avocado, cheese, and tortilla chips. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
  • Rotisserie or leftover roast chicken works perfectly for quick prep.
  • To make this chili dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free yogurt alternatives.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg