Name: Creamy White Chicken Chili Perfect for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese and cilantro for garnish

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Creamy White Chicken Chili Perfect for Cozy Nights 🌶️🥣🕯️

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a warm, hearty, and comforting dish to enjoy on chilly evenings, look no further than this white chicken chili. This creamy chicken chili recipe is perfect for cozy nights, offering a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flavorful mix of spices. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will impress everyone with its rich texture and comforting flavors.

2. Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Chili

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 oz) diced green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Shredded cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges for serving (optional)

3. How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili | Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your white chicken chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in the green chilies, white beans, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to stay tender.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk to achieve that rich, creamy texture. Allow it to heat through for another 5 minutes, but do not boil.

Step 6: Serve Your Creamy Chicken Chili

Ladle the hot chili into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

4. Storing and Reheating Creamy White Chicken Chili

If you have leftovers, store the cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until hot. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best White Chicken Chili Experience

This comforting chicken stew pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips or warm cornbread. For an extra hearty meal, serve over rice or with a side of roasted vegetables. Want a spicy kick? Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chili before serving.

If you’re in the mood for lighter fare, enjoy it as a soup with a crisp green salad on the side.

6. Tips and Variations to Customize Your Creamy White Chicken Chili

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
Include corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.
Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker assembly.
Enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Perfect for reheating leftovers evenly or cooking side dishes that complement your white chicken chili.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — A reliable set of pots and pans for all your cooking needs, making prepared your white chicken chili a breeze.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Useful for grilling chicken or preparing quick side dishes.

These tools will enhance your cooking experience and help achieve perfect results every time.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about White Chicken Chili

Can I make white chicken chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply sauté the onions and garlic beforehand, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off approach.

What are good substitutions for heavy cream?

For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or cashew cream work great. For a lighter option, you can use milk or Greek yogurt added at the end of cooking.

**How long does it take to prepare this white chicken chili?**

The active cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious dinner option for busy weeknights.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, by using low-carb vegetables and avoiding beans or substituting with lower-carb options, this creamy chicken chili can fit into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

9. Conclusion

This white chicken chili is a comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor. Its creamy texture, tender chicken, and flavorful spices make it perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or meal prepping. Discover the joy of making this hearty dish and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table! For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, explore our related dishes like creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta or chewy chocolate chip cookies.

Creamy White Chicken Chili Perfect for Cozy Nights