Easy White Chicken Chili

Name: Easy White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup); 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder); 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ small lime, juiced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh); 2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover)

Published: May 22, 2025

by Sabrina

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This Easy White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to game-day gatherings. This creamy, flavorful chili is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. With the use of leftover chicken, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting chili that’s packed with nutrients and flavor!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a total cook time of just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever chicken you have on hand, whether it’s rotisserie or leftovers, making it an easy choice for busy nights.
Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of spices and creaminess from sour cream or Greek yogurt makes every bite delightful.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and chicken, this chili is a nutritious option for any meal.
Perfect for Leftovers: This chili reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are a few must-haves for preparing this Easy White Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot (5-6 quart)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Food processor (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté ingredients easily while providing ample room for simmering the chili.
Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Food processor: Optional but useful if you want a creamier texture by blending some beans.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this Easy White Chicken Chili:

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
½ small lime, juiced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
2 heaping cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover)

For Garnish

Fresh cilantro
Shredded cheese
Tortilla chips
Green onions
Avocado

How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Stir in the following ingredients:
1. Chicken broth
2. Diced green chilies
3. Ground cumin
4. Cayenne pepper
5. Dried oregano
6. Paprika
7. Lime juice

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Beans

Drain and rinse the great northern beans.
1. For a creamier texture, blend a large ladleful of beans with a splash of broth in a food processor until smooth (optional).

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Add both pureed beans and whole beans along with corn to the pot.
1. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Finish the Chili

Remove from heat after simmering.
1. Stir in sour cream (or Greek yogurt) along with shredded chicken until fully combined.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired. Enjoy your hearty Easy White Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Easy White Chicken Chili

Serving Easy White Chicken Chili is a delightful experience, as this dish pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also adds visual appeal to your meal.

Topping Suggestions

Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese on top provides a creamy, rich texture that complements the chili.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a satisfying contrast to the smooth chili.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Avocado: Creamy avocado slices enhance the richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Warm Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas for dipping or wrapping around the chili.
Rice or Quinoa: Adding rice or quinoa as a base makes for a heartier meal.
Salad: A light salad on the side balances out the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect Easy White Chicken Chili

Perfecting your Easy White Chicken Chili can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chili turns out delicious every time.

Use Leftover Chicken: Utilizing leftover chicken not only saves time but also maximizes flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.
Blend Beans for Creaminess: Blending some beans creates a thicker, creamier texture that enhances mouthfeel.
Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors, making it even more delicious.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adding more salt or lime juice can elevate the overall flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Easy White Chicken Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

Cornbread: A sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spicy flavors of chili perfectly.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
Mexican Rice: Flavored rice adds an extra layer of taste that goes well with chili.
Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables offer a healthy and colorful addition.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only tastes great but also adds healthy fats to your meal.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy White Chicken Chili can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

Skipping the Aromatics: Not sautéing the onion and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Always start with these ingredients for a rich base.
Overlooking Seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can make your chili taste flat. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go.
Ignoring Bean Texture: Blending some beans is optional but helps create a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step if you prefer a thicker chili!
Rushing the Simmer: Not allowing enough simmer time can result in an underdeveloped flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes for the best taste.
Neglecting Toppings: Skipping toppings can rob your chili of texture and flavor. Get creative with fresh cilantro, cheese, or avocado for added richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy White Chicken Chili

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy White Chicken Chili

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until hot, about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Easy White Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili is perfect for meal prep. It stays delicious in the fridge and even tastes better the next day.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute turkey or leave out the protein altogether for a vegetarian version of Easy White Chicken Chili.

How do I thicken my Easy White Chicken Chili?

You can blend some of the beans or add more sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! While great northern beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Easy White Chicken Chili recipe is not only creamy and satisfying but also highly versatile. Customize it with your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try this dish today for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone!

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