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Cozy & Flavorful White Chicken Chili – A Bowl of Comfort

Cozy & Flavorful White Chicken Chili – A Bowl of Comfort

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A warm, comforting white chicken chili with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and a subtle kick of green chilies in a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for chilly nights, easy meal prep, and satisfying family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese (or 1 cup heavy cream)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (about 5–7 minutes).
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pot along with the chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer and cook until the chicken is tender and easily shredded (about 20–25 minutes).
  3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the broth and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  4. Thicken the Soup: To naturally thicken, mash a portion of the white beans and stir them back into the soup.
  5. Make It Creamy: Stir in the cream cheese (or heavy cream) until the soup is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

  • For extra convenience, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer more heat.
  • This soup can be made in a slow cooker: brown the aromatics and chicken first, then transfer all ingredients (except cream and spinach, if using) to a slow cooker; cook on low for 6–8 hours, then finish with cream.

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