There’s something about a big bowl of white chicken chili that just warms my soul, especially on those chilly evenings when the wind is howling outside. I remember the first time I made it; I was huddled up in my cozy kitchen, and as the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled the air, it felt like a big hug in a bowl. This chili is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavors that just dance on your taste buds. It’s like a comforting embrace that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

white chicken chili - detail 1

Ingredients

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 can white beans, drained
1 can corn, drained
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheese

How to Prepare White Chicken Chili

Making this white chicken chili is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love every step! Let’s dive in and create a bowl of warmth together.

Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics

Start by heating a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them to become soft and fragrant, almost translucent in color. This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of flavor for your chili, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Combining Main Ingredients

Once your onions and garlic are ready, it’s time to add in the star players! Stir in the shredded chicken, drained white beans, corn, and diced green chilies. Then pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the cumin and oregano along with some salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir, ensuring all those wonderful ingredients are well combined. Feel free to adjust the seasoning if you want a little more kick!

Step 3: Simmering the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, and oh, the smell will be heavenly! Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This is when the flavors really meld together, so don’t skip this part! You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens slightly and the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Now for the creamy goodness! Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese until they melt into the chili, creating a deliciously creamy texture. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! Serve hot, and don’t forget to top it with your favorites like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or extra cheese. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this white chicken chili is approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy option. You’ll get about 10 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 40 grams of carbohydrates, along with 10 grams of fiber. These values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredients and portion sizes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation means you can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Hearty flavor that warms you from the inside out, making it a comfort food favorite.
Low-fat option that doesn’t skimp on taste—it’s a guilt-free indulgence!
Versatile for toppings; customize it with cilantro, avocado, or extra cheese to suit your taste.
Ideal for cold days when you just want something cozy in a bowl.

Tips for Success

To really elevate your white chicken chili, consider using rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful base—it’s a total time-saver! Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste; if you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or some jalapeños. For added depth, try using homemade chicken broth if you have some on hand. And let’s talk toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or some creamy avocado can take this chili to a whole new level. Trust me, these little touches make all the difference!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to mix up your white chicken chili! Try swapping in different beans like black beans or kidney beans for a unique twist. You can also add fresh vegetables—think bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrition. If you want to change the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your white chicken chili is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prep! If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as it will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. Stir occasionally, and you’ll be back to enjoying that cozy flavor in no time!

Serving Suggestions

To make your white chicken chili even more delightful, consider pairing it with some warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. A fresh side salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the chili beautifully. Don’t forget about toppings! Sliced avocado, crispy tortilla strips, or a sprinkle of lime juice can really elevate the flavors. Trust me, these little additions can turn a comforting bowl into a truly memorable meal!

For more delicious recipes, check out this cozy delight or this crockpot version for easy meal prep!

White Chicken Chili: 7 Soul-Warming Secrets Revealed

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful white chicken chili that warms you up.

Instructions

In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add shredded chicken, white beans, corn, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in sour cream and cheese until melted.
Serve hot with toppings if desired.