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Looking for an alternative to a classic beef and tomato chili? Try this delicious white chicken chili recipe instead! It’s creamy, comforting, and just pure goodness in a bowl. You’ll definitely want to add this to your go-to dinners this fall. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this white chicken chili recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili Recipe
Quick & Easy: Comes together in about 45 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Mild spice, creamy texture, and tons of flavor.
Step 1 Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2 Add the garlic and onions, and sauté until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
Step 3 Stir in the chicken, green chilies, seasonings, and chicken stock.
Step 4 Bring everything to a gentle boil, then cover the pot.
Step 5 Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 6 Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
Step 7 While the chicken is out, drain and rinse the beans.
Step 8 Add the beans, chopped cilantro, and shredded chicken back into the pot. Simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes.
Step 9 Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until creamy and well blended.
Step 10 Squeeze in fresh lime juice, stir, and serve!
Serving Suggestions
Top with shredded cheese, extra cilantro, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for that added crunch. Serve it up with warm cornbread or a crusty slice of sourdough for dipping.
Recipe Tips
Slow cooker friendly: Just toss everything in (except creams and lime), cook on low 6-8 hours, shred chicken, then stir in the creamy stuff at the end.
Make it spicier: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
Lighten it up: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Make this white chicken chili recipe once, and you’ll be hooked. It’s the kind of recipe that finds its way into your regular rotation without even trying. If you make it, tag me—I love seeing how your bowls turn out!
This creamy white chicken chili is rich, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken, green chilies, and hearty beans. Finished with a swirl of cream and a squeeze of lime—it’s the perfect cozy dinner for any night of the week.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the garlic and onions, and sauté until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chicken, green chilies, seasonings, and chicken stock.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then cover the pot.
Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
While the chicken is out, drain and rinse the beans.
Add the beans, chopped cilantro, and shredded chicken back into the pot. Simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined and creamy.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice (about half a lime), give it one last stir, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 cup
Calories:409
Sugar:2.4g
Sodium:1472mg
Fat:26g
Carbohydrates:18.2g
Fiber:3.5g
Protein:25.9g
What makes white chicken chili different from traditional chili?
White chicken chili swaps the beef and tomato base for chicken, white beans, and green chilies, giving it a creamy, comforting twist that’s milder but full of flavor.
Can I make this chili with rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken can save time—just shred it and add it to the pot after cooking the other ingredients, letting it simmer briefly to soak up the flavors.
What’s the best way to thicken white chicken chili?
For a thicker chili, try mashing some of the beans before adding them or simmering it uncovered to reduce the liquid. Adding extra sour cream or heavy cream at the end can also create a thicker, creamier texture.
What toppings go on white chicken chili?
Top with shredded cheese, extra cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime. A side of crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls complements the flavors perfectly!