Cozy Winter White Chicken Chili (Print View)

Creamy chili with white beans, tender chicken, subtle heat, and a flavorful secret for cold-weather comfort.

# Components:

→ Poultry

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
05 - 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced

→ Beans & Broth

07 - 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Dairy

09 - 1/2 cup sour cream
10 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
15 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Secret Ingredient

17 - 1/4 cup salsa verde (green tomatillo salsa)

→ Garnishes

18 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
19 - Sliced avocado (optional)
20 - Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional)
21 - Lime wedges (optional)
22 - Tortilla chips (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute longer.
02 - Stir in ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for 30 seconds until spices become fragrant.
03 - Add chicken breasts, diced green chiles, beans, chicken broth, salsa verde, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine.
04 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through.
05 - Remove the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot and mix well.
06 - Add softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until both are completely melted and the mixture is creamy. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with chosen garnishes such as cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, lime wedges, or tortilla chips.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour with minimal prep
  • A family favorite perfect for busy evenings
  • Surprisingly rich without feeling heavy
  • Flexible if you want to swap out ingredients
  • Great for gluten-free diets as long as you check your labels
02 -
  • Gluten-free friendly if you choose the right broth and garnishes
  • Higher in protein for lasting fullness
  • Cream cheese brings decadent texture without heavy cream
  • Freezes beautifully for easy meal prep
03 -
  • Mash a third of the beans before you add them for a creamier chili without needing extra dairy
  • If you are short on time use chopped rotisserie chicken and add with the cream cheese and sour cream step
  • Taste before serving so you can adjust the salt or brightness with a little fresh lime

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