Creamy White Chicken Chili

Name: Creamy White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 chicken breasts (cut into small bite-size pieces); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 (14 ounce) cans white beans (drained); 2 (4 ounce) cans mild green chilies (with juices); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); Salt & pepper (to taste); Additional toppings like lime juice, avocado, cilantro, Mexican cheese blend, tortilla strips

Published: December 10, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This creamy white chicken chili can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices, cream cheese, and green chilies creates a rich flavor profile that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Customizable Toppings: Top your chili with lime juice, avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips to suit your taste and make each bowl unique.
Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, this chili is both filling and nutritious.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with rice or bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious creamy white chicken chili, having the right tools on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for combining all ingredients while allowing enough space for simmering without spilling.
Cutting board: Protects surfaces while providing a stable area for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken safely.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of all ingredients.

Ingredients

This flavorful white chicken chili recipe is a creamy and cozy dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes! Add some fresh toppings, and you’ve got an irresistible chili for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion (chopped)
– 2 chicken breasts (cut into small bite-size pieces)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 (14 ounce) cans white beans (drained)
– 2 (4 ounce) cans mild green chilies (with juices)
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 block of Philly) (softened)
– Salt & pepper (to taste)
– Additional toppings like lime juice, avocado, cilantro, Mexican cheese blend, tortilla strips, etc.

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Add the olive oil to a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5–7 minutes until it turns translucent. For extra flavor, allow it to brown slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once the onion is ready, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook them for a few minutes until they are no longer pink on the outside.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the chicken broth, drained white beans, green chilies along with their juices, chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Increase the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Cut cream cheese into cubes and microwave it for about 30 seconds to soften. Stir it into the chili mixture and continue cooking for another five minutes until well combined.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Season your creamy white chicken chili with salt & pepper according to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as lime juice, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded Mexican cheese blend, or crunchy tortilla strips. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili

Creamy White Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience best enjoyed with the right toppings and sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your chili.

Fresh Toppings

Avocado – Creamy avocado slices add richness and a fresh flavor contrast.
Cilantro – A sprinkle of chopped cilantro provides a burst of freshness and color.
Lime Wedges – Squeezing fresh lime juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
Tortilla Strips – Crunchy tortilla strips give texture and a satisfying crunch.

Cheese Additions

Mexican Cheese Blend – Melting cheese on top creates a deliciously creamy finish.
Cotija Cheese – This crumbly cheese adds saltiness and enhances the chili’s flavor profile.

Accompaniments

Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the spiciness of the chili.
Rice – Serving over rice can make it a heartier meal, perfect for soaking up the sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken Chili

To ensure your Creamy White Chicken Chili reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices will enhance flavor significantly.
Adjust spice levels – Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
Let it simmer longer – Allowing the chili to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Add more veggies – Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
Use rotisserie chicken – For a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Chicken Chili can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

Cornbread – This sweet, buttery bread complements the chili’s spice perfectly.
Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast.
Guacamole – The creaminess of guacamole balances the heat of the chili wonderfully.
Spanish Rice – Flavorful rice makes an excellent base for serving chili over.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition to your meal.
Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer a fun, interactive side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy white chicken chili, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Aim to cook it just until no longer pink.
Neglecting Flavor Balance: Failing to season properly can lead to bland chili. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or lime juice.
Skipping Fresh Toppings: Missing out on toppings like avocado or cilantro takes away from the chili’s freshness. Always add a variety of textures and flavors.
Using Low-Quality Beans: Poor-quality beans can affect both texture and taste. Opt for good quality canned beans for the best results.
Not Allowing Time for Flavors to Meld: Rushing through cooking time doesn’t allow flavors to develop fully. Let your chili simmer for enough time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken Chili

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Creamy White Chicken Chili

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy White Chicken Chili?

Creamy white chicken chili is a comforting dish made with chicken, white beans, green chilies, and cream cheese, resulting in a rich and flavorful meal.

Can I make Creamy White Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.

What toppings are best for Creamy White Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, lime juice, tortilla strips, and Mexican cheese blend.

How can I customize my Creamy White Chicken Chili?

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn or spice it up with extra chili powder or jalapeños.

Final Thoughts

Creamy white chicken chili is a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or by adding extra ingredients. Try this recipe today for a cozy meal that your family will love!