Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy White Chili is the perfect dish for cozy nights and hearty meals. This chili is rich and creamy, with tender chunks of chicken, creamy white beans, and a flavorful kick from green chiles and spices. The addition of sour cream and heavy cream makes the chili luxuriously smooth, while the cumin, oregano, and cayenne bring out just the right amount of warmth and depth. It’s a comforting yet flavorful twist on traditional chili that’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 cans (15-1/2 ounces each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
• 2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chiles
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Optional toppings:

• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced seeded jalapeño pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center (about 6-8 minutes).
2. Add seasonings and beans: Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the garlic powder, salt, cumin, oregano, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix to coat the chicken evenly in the spices. Then, add the rinsed and drained great northern beans, chicken broth, and chopped green chiles. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken slightly.
4. Make it creamy: Once the chili has simmered, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream. Mix until the chili is smooth and creamy. Allow the chili to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Ladle the creamy white chili into bowls and top with optional toppings such as tortilla chips, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced jalapeño peppers for added texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add more heat: If you like a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a finely chopped jalapeño to the pot when cooking the onions.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add an extra can of beans (such as black beans or pinto beans) and some extra vegetables like corn or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Top with avocado: For extra creaminess, add diced avocado on top of the chili just before serving.
• Add cheese to the base: Stir some shredded cheese into the chili for an even richer, creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

This creamy white chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two! To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes! While great northern beans are ideal for this chili, you can substitute with other white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually develop more after sitting for a day, making it a great make-ahead option.

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, you can freeze the chili. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use another kind of meat instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey, ground beef, or even sausage can be used in place of chicken. Just be sure to cook the meat through before adding the seasonings and other ingredients.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Absolutely! If you like a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add diced fresh jalapeños, or use a spicier variety of green chiles.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this creamy white chili is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this chili dairy-free by substituting the sour cream and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream and cashew cream.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili is great on its own, but you can pair it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a more complete meal.

How can I thicken the chili?

If you want a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans in the pot with a potato masher or blend part of the chili using an immersion blender. This will help create a creamier consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like corn, diced bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and flavor. Just add them when you add the beans and broth.

Conclusion

Creamy White Chili is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a rich, spiced broth, this dish offers a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to make, customizable, and full of delicious, hearty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this creamy chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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