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Creamy White Chicken Chili

A creamy yet light white chicken chili that's zippy and flavorful, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached breast/thighs) Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • 2 cans (15-ounce) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern) You can mash half the beans for creaminess.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Sub vegetable broth for vegetarian version.
  • 1 can (4-ounce) diced green chiles Add cayenne for extra heat if desired.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (or ½ cup sour cream for looser texture) For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack (optional) Fold in for extra cheesiness.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh preferred) Add at the end for brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro For garnish.
  • 1 can (15-ounce) hominy or white corn (drained)
  • Hot sauce to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken. Cook for 1–2 minutes to warm through.
  4. Add the white beans and the can of diced green chiles. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and mix.
  6. Sprinkle in cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir.
Cooking
  1. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes so flavors meld.
  2. Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese in chunks and stir until fully melted and silky.
  3. If using shredded cheese, stir it in now until melted and smooth.
  4. Stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce as needed.
  5. Optional: fold in corn, hominy, or chopped cilantro just before serving. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For extra creaminess, mash about half the beans. Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. Don't overheat after adding cream cheese to prevent separation.