Name: Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 white onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped; 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to heat preference); 1.5 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cayenne powder; 1/2 tsp salt; Black pepper, to taste; 2 cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed; 4 cups no chicken stock or vegetable stock; 1 cup frozen or fresh corn; 4 cups vegan chicken pieces; 1 cup grated vegan cheddar style cheese; 4 oz (115g) vegan cream cheese; 1/2 lime, juiced; Tortilla chips, for serving; 2 avocados, cubed; Fresh coriander (cilantro); Lime wedges; Extra chili, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 49 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, flavorful dish that satisfies all your comfort food cravings without compromising your vegan lifestyle, look no further than this delightful Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe. It’s bursting with layers of smoky spices, creamy textures, and a touch of heat, bringing together familiar chili warmth with plant-based magic. Trust me, this recipe not only captures the heartiness of traditional white chicken chili but elevates it with wholesome vegan ingredients that make every spoonful a joy to savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of a white pot filled with a thick, creamy beige soup with small green and brown bits throughout, as a pale yellow liquid is being poured slowly into the pot from the right side; near the bottom left of the pot, there is a cluster of whole, soft white beans sitting on top of the soup; the pot rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple yet vital ingredients that come together to create a complex, deeply satisfying flavor. Each component plays a key role, whether adding smokiness, creaminess, or that necessary kick of spice.

White onion: Provides the wonderful base sweetness and a mild crunch when sautéed.
Garlic cloves: Infuse rich aroma and depth to the chili’s flavor profile.
Poblano peppers: Add smoky warmth without overwhelming heat.
Jalapenos: Bring the chili’s playful, bright spice—adjust based on your preferred heat level.
Ground cumin: Delivers that classic chili earthiness and warmth.
Ground coriander: Adds a hint of citrusy brightness to the spice blend.
Dried oregano: Rounds out the herbal notes for a balanced flavor.
Cayenne powder: Provides an extra layer of subtle heat to invigorate each bite.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all flavors.
White beans (2 cans): The creamy, protein-rich backbone that brings heartiness and texture.
No chicken stock or vegetable stock (4 cups): Intensifies the savory depth without overpowering.
Frozen or fresh corn (1 cup): Adds bits of sweetness and pop of texture.
Vegan cheddar style cheese (1 cup grated): Melts into luscious creaminess, mimicking traditional cheese perfectly.
Vegan cream cheese (4 oz/115g): Creams up the chili for a luxuriously rich mouthfeel.
Vegan chicken pieces (4 cups): The star protein replicating the classic “chicken” element with plant-based goodness.
1/2 lime: Adds fresh acidity to brighten and balance the dish.
Toppings such as tortilla chips, cubed avocados, fresh coriander, lime wedges, and extra chili: Bring texture, freshness, and customizable spice levels to complete the chili experience.

How to Make Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Aromatics

Start by dicing the white onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Remove the seeds from the poblano and jalapeno peppers (unless you like it fiery), then finely chop them. These foundational aromatics set the stage for the vibrant flavors that define the chili.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables and Spices

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion, garlic, poblano, and jalapeno until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Then stir in the ground cumin, coriander, oregano, cayenne powder, salt, and pepper, letting the spices toast gently to amplify their flavors before adding the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Adding Beans, Stock, and Corn

Drain and rinse the white beans, then add them to the pot along with the vegetable stock and corn. Bring it all to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, so the flavors meld and the chili thickens slightly.

Step 4: Incorporating Vegan Cheese and Chicken Pieces

Stir in the grated vegan cheddar, the vegan cream cheese, and the vegan chicken pieces. Continue to simmer until the cheese melts completely and the chicken pieces are heated through, giving the chili its creamy, hearty texture.

Step 5: Brightening with Lime and Final Adjustments

Squeeze in half a lime for a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness. Taste and adjust seasoning—more salt or a pinch of cayenne can be added to customize the heat and flavor as you prefer.

How to Serve Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe

A clear glass measuring cup filled with a light tan creamy liquid showing tiny bubbles on the surface. A white immersion blender is partially submerged in the mixture on the right side of the cup. The measuring cup sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting that highlights the smooth texture of the liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of fresh garnishes! Cubed ripe avocados add creaminess and cool contrast, while fresh coriander adds a herby brightness. A handful of crunchy tortilla chips on top offers a delightful texture contrast, and an extra squeeze of lime brightens every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This chili is incredibly satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside warm corn tortillas, a simple green salad with a zesty dressing, or even some smoky roasted sweet potatoes. These sides complement the chili’s rich, layered flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chili in individual bread bowls or over a bed of fluffy quinoa. You can also layer it alongside guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream for a loaded chili platter that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover chili to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious option for quick weekday meals.

Freezing

This Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the chili gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions; just cover loosely and stir every minute to ensure even heating and preserve that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned or fresh corn in this recipe?

Absolutely! Both canned and fresh corn work well. If using canned, drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid that might thin out the chili.

What can I substitute for vegan chicken pieces?

If vegan chicken is not available, you can use jackfruit, extra beans, or tempeh cubes to maintain the protein and texture in this chili.

How spicy is this Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe?

The heat level is adjustable by the amount of jalapenos and cayenne powder you add. Feel free to reduce or increase these according to your preference for a milder or more fiery dish.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients listed in the Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels on processed items like vegan chicken and cheese to be sure.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Follow steps 1 and 2 on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding cheese and vegan cream cheese towards the end to melt in smoothly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing bowl that’s packed with flavor and 100% plant-based, this Vegan White Chicken Chili Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and fall in love with this delicious twist on classic chili!