Save This creamy white chicken chili is one of those bowls you crave on cold nights. A gentle heat mingles with velvety broth and tender chicken, while a hidden touch of salsa verde brings a brightness that makes all the difference. I find myself making this every time I need a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.
The first time I made this, I was honestly skeptical about adding salsa verde, but now it is my not-so-secret flavor weapon and has earned raves from friends and family alike.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The heart of the chili use thighs for extra tenderness or breasts for leaner results
- Yellow onion: Essential for the savory base pick one that feels firm with shiny skin
- Garlic: Adds warmth and depth make sure the cloves are fresh and free of sprouts
- Jalapeño: Optional but great for gentle heat use gloves when chopping if you are sensitive to spice
- Diced green chiles: Give mild zesty kick look for cans with just a few ingredients for the best taste
- Red bell pepper: Offers sweet balance choose one that is heavy and glossy
- Great Northern or cannellini beans: Creamy texture while soaking up the flavors buy low-sodium or no-salt varieties if possible
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the salt level in check homemade or high-quality store-bought makes a difference
- Sour cream: Lends the chili its signature creamy tang go for thick full-fat for maximum richness
- Cream cheese: Takes the creaminess up a notch look for one that is soft and easily spreadable
- Ground cumin: Must-have for earthy undertones freshly ground always gives best results
- Dried oregano: Fragrant and herby make sure yours is still aromatic not faded
- Smoked paprika: Gives gentle smokiness opt for a Spanish or Hungarian style if you can
- Ground coriander: Delicate citrusy notes a spice rack staple that elevates white chili
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors use a coarse flaky type for better control
- Freshly ground black pepper: Sharper and more aromatic than pre-ground pepper
- Salsa verde: This is the secret ingredient bringing brightness and complexity use a good-quality jar with real tomatillos as top ingredient
- Fresh cilantro, Sliced avocado, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, Lime wedges, Tortilla chips: All optional but so much fun for serving mix and match to suit your crowd
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat Add the diced yellow onion jalapeño and red bell pepper Cook for four to five minutes stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft and fragrant Next add the minced garlic and cook for another minute just until the sharpness mellows
- Bloom the Spices:
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin dried oregano smoked paprika and ground coriander Stir well to coat the softened vegetables Let them cook for about thirty seconds This step releases all those essential oils and makes your kitchen smell incredible
- Build the Broth:
- Nestle the chicken pieces into the pot Pour in the diced green chiles drained beans chicken broth salsa verde kosher salt and black pepper Stir until combined Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged so it cooks evenly
- Simmer and Cook Chicken:
- Raise the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil Once bubbling reduce the heat to low so it simmers uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes The goal is fully cooked tender chicken that shreds easily
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the cooked chicken using tongs Place it on a plate or cutting board Use two forks to pull it into bite-sized shreds This helps soak up the creamy chili base later
- Finish for Creaminess:
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot Top with the cream cheese and sour cream Stir slowly until both are melted and blend into the liquid Let it all simmer on low for five more minutes for a creamy finish
- Taste and Serve:
- Give everything a taste and add a little more salt or pepper if needed Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro avocado cheese lime wedges or chips based on your favorites
Save The salsa verde is my hands-down favorite ingredient It adds a flavor that catches everyone by surprise and keeps them guessing what makes this different My kids love to load up their bowls with cheese and chips and it always turns into a dinnertime event
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days If the chili thickens too much on standing, just stir in a splash of broth or water while reheating Gently warm over medium-low heat to keep the cream cheese smooth
Ingredient Substitutions
Try rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken added after the simmer for a super quick version Cannellini beans or navy beans swap in seamlessly Greek yogurt can replace sour cream in a pinch For dairy free use a plant-based cream cheese and unflavored non-dairy yogurt
Serving Suggestions
Top your chili with thinly sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness A side of lightly toasted cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips will round out the texture Kids like this mild but you can add hot sauce on the side for more adventurous eaters
Cultural Notes
White chicken chili is a modern American twist on traditional chili moving away from tomatoes and heavy spices in favor of creaminess and subtle heat This style shines in cooler months but has quickly become a year-round staple because it is so adaptable to different tastes
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap red bell pepper for poblano when in season Add fresh corn sliced off the cob during late summer Fresh baby spinach stirs in easily for extra greens right before serving
Success Stories
This is always the potluck hit at our winter gatherings My neighbor even started her own tradition using this recipe and brings it in a slow cooker to game nights It is the meal that disappears first and is most requested for snow days When sharing with friends everyone asks what the secret is
Freezer Meal Conversion
Let the chili cool completely before ladling into freezer-safe containers It holds up well for up to three months Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently You may want to stir in a little extra broth to restore its silky texture
Save Enjoy this creamy white chicken chili with your favorite toppings and feel free to make it your own. Every bowl brings comfort for all seasons.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes this chili creamy?
The combination of cream cheese and sour cream stirred in at the end creates a rich, velvety texture.
- → Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes! Control the spice by using more or less jalapeño and green chiles, or omit them entirely for a milder chili.
- → What is the secret ingredient?
Salsa verde, made from tomatillos, brings tangy depth and enhances the overall flavor profile of the chili.
- → Are there garnish suggestions?
Try fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, lime wedges, or crunchy tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture.
- → Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Stir in shredded cooked chicken after simmering the vegetables and broth for a quicker meal.