If you’re searching for a cozy, creamy, and flavor-packed dinner, this White Chicken Chili is exactly what you need. Made with tender shredded chicken, hearty white beans, mild green chilies, and a smooth, velvety broth, this recipe brings big comfort with simple ingredients. It’s the perfect choice for weeknights, game days, or anytime you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal that comes together quickly.
Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili
This creamy chili offers everything you love about classic chili—rich flavor, heartiness, and warmth—but with a lighter, comforting twist. The blend of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika gives it a mellow heat, while the cream cheese and heavy cream make the broth irresistibly smooth. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and completely customizable. Even better, it cooks in one pot and is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- Two 15-oz cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make White Chicken Chili (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This forms the flavor base of your chili.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Stir in the green chilies along with the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Warming the spices in the pot helps release their full aroma and deepens the chili’s flavor.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer to blend the spices into the liquid.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Beans
Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and corn (if using). Allow the chili to simmer for 15–20 minutes. This helps thicken the broth slightly and builds comforting, layered flavor.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the broth. Then pour in the heavy cream for an ultra-smooth finish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings—like shredded cheese, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Tips & Variations
- Make it dairy-free: Swap the cream cheese and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Thicker chili: Mash some of the beans before adding them for natural thickness.
- Boost the heat: Add diced jalapeños or extra green chilies.
- Rotisserie chicken shortcut: Saves time and adds extra flavor—just stir it in during the last 5 minutes.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze without the dairy, then stir in cream when reheating for best texture.
Serving Ideas & Storage
White Chicken Chili pairs beautifully with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. For garnish, try shredded cheese, avocado slices, cilantro, or green onions.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. The chili will thicken in the fridge—add a splash of broth when reheating to revive the texture. It reheats well on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbs | ~28g |
| Fat | ~14g |
| Fiber | ~7g |
| Sodium | Varies by broth |
Final Thoughts
This creamy White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with warm flavors. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable favorite that always delivers. One pot, easy cleanup, and big flavor make it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation.