Name: White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Hey y'all! If you're searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that warms you from the inside out, my White Chicken Chili Recipe is about to become your go-to comfort food. This creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy chili is loaded with tender chicken, hearty beans, and a blend of Southwestern flavors—making it perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or casual get-togethers. Ready for a bowl of pure comfort? Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This White Chicken Chili Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, including prep time.
Creamy & Flavorful: Rich texture with just the right kick from green chilies and spices.
Versatile: Easily adaptable for the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot.
Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids but customizable for spice lovers.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

White Chicken Chili Recipe Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large), diced
2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn, drained (or 1½ cups frozen corn)
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese (for serving)
Sliced jalapeños or avocado (optional, for garnish)

How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Stir in the beans, corn, diced green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, coriander, chili powder, the remaining salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Remove the lid and use a potato masher or back of a spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot (this thickens the chili). Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until well combined and creamy. Heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until hot but not boiling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the chili into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and optional jalapeños or avocado. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes for the Best White Chicken Chili Recipe

For extra creaminess, stir in a few ounces of cream cheese along with the sour cream (See more tips).
If you prefer a thicker chili, mash more beans or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal—just add in Step 3 and heat through.

White Chicken Chili Recipe Variations

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili Recipe: Combine all ingredients (except dairy) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in sour cream and cream before serving.
Spicy White Chicken Chili: Double the green chilies and add a diced jalapeño to the pot with the onion.
Vegetarian White Chili: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth plus extra beans or tofu for protein.

Equipment Needed for White Chicken Chili Recipe

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Potato masher (optional, for thickening)

Storage Instructions for White Chicken Chili Recipe

Let the chili cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for White Chicken Chili Recipe

Serve with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Top with extra cheese, cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect White Chicken Chili Recipe

Use rotisserie chicken for the ultimate time-saver and deep flavor (learn more here).
Always taste and adjust seasoning after adding dairy, as it can mellow flavors.
If you're reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture (safe reheating tips).

White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

Can I make White Chicken Chili Recipe ahead of time?: Absolutely! This chili tastes even better after sitting overnight. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken or turkey?: Yes, add any cooked, shredded chicken or turkey in Step 3 and heat through, making this a great recipe for leftovers.
How do I make this White Chicken Chili Recipe dairy-free?: Replace sour cream and heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and skip the cheese topping.

Enjoy your creamy, hearty White Chicken Chili! For more ingredient ideas and nutrition facts, check out the Nutritionix database.

White Chicken Chili Recipe