What’s so comforting about a big bowl of chili? Forget that heavy, tomato-based chili for a second, and imagine creamy, flavorful broth loaded with spices. With tender chicken, beans, and just the right amount of spice.White Chicken Chili: What are some goodIs it like a warm hug on chilly days? I often think of it as the lighter, brighter cousin of traditional chili, perfect when you want to eat a lot of different flavors. Something hearty but not quite as intense. Is it easier to throw together than you might think, and trust me, it will become a family favorite. I even add a squeeze of lime at the end – it just brightens up. I know I can’t get it to work, but I do.
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What is white chicken chili?
What is the world of blogging?White Chicken Chili: What are some goodLet me give you the rundown. What’s a chili made with white wine broth instead of the traditional tomato base? Think of it as a lighter, brighter, and slightly more sophisticated version of your standard chili. What makes a Creamy Chicken broth creamy? What is the weapon for extra creaminess? ), and sometimes a touch of sour cream. What are some good side dishes to serve with shredded chicken, white beans (cannellini or great northern are my go-to), and a green salad? What are some essential chili spices? The name comes from the distinctive color and the use of chicken as the primary protein. What is comfort food in a bowl? I even tried a vegetarian version once using jackfruit, and it was surprisingly good!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to try this recipe? First off, the flavor is absolutely amazing. What’s a comforting chili taste? What I love most about this is how easy it is to make. Honestly, on busy weeknights, this recipe is a must.White Chicken Chili: What are some examplesIs a lifesaver Is it a “dump and simmer” recipe? Is it cost effective? Chicken is relatively inexpensive, and beans and corn are pantry staples. My kids are obsessed with this – they ask for it at least once a week! Is the versatility a huge plus? I love serving it with all sorts of toppings – shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips… The possibilities are endless. I’ve been known to throw a dollop of salsa verde on top for an extra kick! If you like my Creamy Tomato Soup, you will absolutely adore this!
How do I make white chicken chili?
Quick Overview
Making this White Chicken Chili: What are some goodIs it surprisingly simple? You’ll basically be sautéing onions and garlic, adding your spices, then dumping in all the sauce. I’m going to make this tonight. Other ingredients – chicken, beans, corn, broth, and cream cheese. Simmer it all together until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded, then shred. Add a little sour cream to the chicken and stir in the remaining ingredients. What is the beauty of this method? The long simmering time allows all the flavors to really develop, creating a depth of flavor that is not lost in time. What can I do with a quick stovetop recipe? What are the best seasonings to use with this recipe? It’s all about tasting and tweaking to your liking!
Ingredients
For the Main Chili: What is the best way to
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* ½ teaspoon chili powder (or more, to taste)
* ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
* 4 cups chicken broth (I prefer low-sodium)
* 1 (15-ounce) can of Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained.
* 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained. * One (15-ounce) can of cann
* 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained
* 1 pound boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* ¼ cup sour cream
For Serving:
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Sour cream
* Diced avocado
* Tortilla Chips
* Fresh cilantro, chopped
* Lime wedges
What are the steps to
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do you cook garlic?
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in the cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt and cook for about 30 minutes. What is the best way to make your What is the best way to bloom spices and release their flavor?
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
If you have a chicken broth, add the Great Northern beans, cannellini beans and corn, and stir to combine. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. How do I cook chicken? The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Remove the Chicken Breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Is it safe to use an electric mixer for this?
Step 6: Stir in Cream Cheese and Sour Cream
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the softened Cream Cheese and stir until smooth. Then, stir in the sour cream.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. What are some good toppings for a bowl? Cheese, Sour Cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Avocado, tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
What should I serve it with?
White Chicken Chili: What is the best is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. It really depends on the occasion!
For a Casual Weeknight Dinner: I usually just serve it with a big pile of tortilla chips for dipping, a dollop of sour cream, and maybe some shredded cheese. It’s quick, easy, and the kids love it.
For a Game Day Gathering: You could set up a chili bar with all sorts of toppings – diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos, salsa, hot sauce… let everyone customize their own bowl!
For a More Elegant Meal: Serve it with a side of cornbread or a crusty baguette for dipping. A simple green salad would also be a nice complement.
We also love having it with homemade croutons. It makes it feel a little fancier, and adds a nice crunch. My family also enjoys it with quesadillas.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your White Chicken Chili
Okay, so after making this White Chicken Chili countless times, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Here’s my expert advice:
Chicken Choice: While chicken breasts are the easiest option, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim off any excess fat.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and add more as needed. A pinch of smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor, too.
Bean Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. Navy beans or even pinto beans would work well in this recipe.
Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the chili. This will help it melt smoothly and prevent any lumps.
Simmering Time: Don’t rush the simmering process! The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will meld and develop. I’ve simmered it for as long as 2 hours, and it just gets better and better!
Broth: Use good quality chicken broth. I find that low sodium chicken broth is better because it prevents the dish from becoming overly salty.
Lime Juice: I add fresh lime juice at the end to help brighten up the dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This White Chicken Chili is even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute or so to prevent it from drying out.
If the chili becomes too thick after refrigerating, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to thin it out. I also usually add another dollop of sour cream after reheating to restore the creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this White Chicken Chili recipe a try. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and it’s always a hit with my family. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other chili recipes! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so please leave a comment and rating below. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about those too! Happy cooking!
Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Soup: Brighten Your Day!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 lemon zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 bay leaf whole
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sliced carrots, cook for another 3 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.
- Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in baby spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs, if desired.
