Description
Easy White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting chili made with tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, and warm spices. This quick one-pot stovetop recipe blends savory flavors and creamy textures for a perfect cozy meal, ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave comforting American chili.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 3 cups chicken broth
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, developing a sweet base flavor.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the spices bloom and release their aroma.
- Add Main Ingredients: Incorporate the shredded cooked chicken, drained white beans, diced green chiles, and chicken broth into the pot. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the sour cream or heavy cream along with the shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese until the chili becomes smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed. Serve the chili hot, optionally accompanied by tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for added zest.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for quick preparation.
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the white beans before simmering to add body and creaminess.
- Enhance serving by pairing with tortilla chips, fresh cilantro leaves, or lime wedges for extra brightness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
