White chicken chili is a lighter twist on traditional chili—made with tender chicken, creamy white beans, mild green chiles, and warm spices. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor without being overly heavy.
⭐ Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (optional but delicious)
4 cups chicken broth
Spices
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
To Make It Creamy
Choose one:
½ cup sour cream
OR 4 oz cream cheese
OR ½ cup heavy cream
Toppings (optional but recommended!)
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Sliced avocado
Crushed tortilla chips or strips
Jalapeños
⭐ Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft, 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
2. Add the Chicken & Base Ingredients
Stir in:
Shredded chicken
White beans
Green chiles
Corn (if using)
Chicken broth
Mix well.
3. Season the Chili
Add all spices:
Cumin
Oregano
Chili powder
Paprika
Cayenne
Salt & pepper
Bring to a simmer.
4. Make It Creamy
Once the chili is hot and bubbling:
Stir in sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream.
Keep stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Simmer 10–15 minutes to thicken.
5. Taste & Serve
Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
⭐ Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili
Use rotisserie chicken for the fastest version.
Add extra beans and mash a few for thicker texture.
Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Add cream cheese for the richest, creamiest chili.
For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lime before serving.
⭐ Make It Your Style
Spicy Version
Add:
1 diced jalapeño
½ tsp extra cayenne
½ tsp chipotle powder
Creamy Southwest Version
Stir in:
½ cup corn
½ cup black beans
Healthy Version
Skip the dairy and use more broth + extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Ready in 30 minutes
✔ Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor
✔ One-pot recipe = easy cleanup
✔ Great for meal prep
✔ Family-friendly