White Chicken Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful twist on traditional chili, this White Chicken Chili Recipe is just what you need. Creamy, hearty, and loaded with tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a mix of warm spices, this comforting bowl is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for chilly nights, game days, or even a satisfying weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. Whether you like it spicy or mild, creamy or brothy, this recipe will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in sour cream and heavy cream. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes until slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add a splash of lime juice for a tangy flavor boost.
- For a thicker chili, mash a few beans before adding to the pot.
- Adjust heat by using mild or hot green chiles.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or omit cream entirely.
- Spicy version: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Veggie version: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or jackfruit.
- Beans swap: Great Northern or navy beans work well too.
FAQs (White Chicken Chili Recipe)
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add all ingredients (except sour cream and cream) to your crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in dairy before serving.
Q2: How long does White Chicken Chili last in the fridge?
It keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Q3: Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely and freeze in containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Q4: What if I don’t have green chiles?
You can substitute with jalapeños or a bit of salsa verde for a similar flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread.
- Top with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or chopped cilantro.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Pair with a light green salad for a full meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy, hearty, and deeply flavorful
- Quick and easy—ready in under 45 minutes
- Uses pantry staples
- Easily adaptable to your taste
- Perfect for meal prep or freezer meals
White Chicken Chili Recipe
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes380
kcalIngredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Sauté onion in olive oil.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken, beans, chiles, and spices.
- Add broth and simmer 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream and heavy cream.
- Simmer 5 more minutes.
- Garnish and serve warm.

