Name: White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (For sautéing); 1 large onion, diced; 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 14-ounce cans great Northern beans, drained; 2 4-ounce cans mild green chiles with juices; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced (Can substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken); 1 cup corn kernels; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅔ cup sour cream

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Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty chili, and this White Chicken Chili is no exception. Brimming with tender chicken, creamy beans, and zesty green chiles, it’s a comforting dish that has become a staple for many households. Whether you’re gathering with family on a chilly evening or hosting a game-day gathering, this chili brings a cozy atmosphere to any table. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned home cooks and those just finding their footing in the kitchen.

Why you’ll love this dish

What sets this White Chicken Chili apart is its unique blend of flavors and its quick cooking time. Not only is it budget-friendly—with ingredients you may already have on hand—but it’s also a kid-approved meal that the entire family will devour. The combination of savory chicken, creamy beans, and a hint of spice creates a balanced and satisfying dish that works flawlessly for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even a comforting lunch.

“This White Chicken Chili was a huge hit! My kids loved it, and it was so easy to make. Definitely my new go-to recipe for chilly evenings!” – Laura M.

The cooking process explained

Making this White Chicken Chili is easy and can be wrapped up in about 30 minutes. You’ll start by sautéing vegetables to build flavor, then combine everything in a pot to simmer. After a quick cook, you’ll stir in some sour cream for creaminess and serve it hot. By the end, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s perfect to cozy up with or share with friends.

What you’ll need

To create this delicious White Chicken Chili, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
2 cups chicken broth
2 (14-ounce) cans great Northern beans, drained
2 (4-ounce) cans mild green chiles with juices
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup corn kernels
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
⅔ cup sour cream

Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.

Step-by-step instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onions and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained great Northern beans, mild green chiles with their juices, diced chicken breasts, and corn kernels to the pot.
Season with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
To prevent curdling, take about ½ cup of the hot chili and mix it into the sour cream in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir this mixture back into the pot, ensuring everything is well combined and creamy.
Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful White Chicken Chili!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving this chili can be as simple or as fancy as you like. For a cozy night in, whipping up some cornbread or tortilla chips on the side makes for a delicious pairing. If you want to get creative, consider topping each bowl with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, diced avocados, or a dollop of extra sour cream. A splash of lime juice can elevate the flavors even further!

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers? No problem! This White Chicken Chili stores beautifully. Let it cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re looking to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Helpful cooking tips

For a thicker chili, consider mashing some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
You can adjust the spice level by using hotter chiles or adding cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix.
If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked chicken to speed things up even more.

Creative twists

This recipe is versatile, so don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it. Substitute black beans for the great Northern beans for added flavor. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding diced chipotle peppers. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free sour cream, or simply skip it altogether for a lighter chili.

Common questions

How long does it take to make this White Chicken Chili?

The total time to make this chili is about 30-40 minutes, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate it, and simply reheat before serving.

Is there a vegetarian option for this chili?

Absolutely! You can easily replace the chicken with more beans or even grilled vegetables to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

This White Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also offers a comforting embrace in a bowl. With straightforward ingredients and a simple process, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it before. Enjoy!