White chicken chili is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of a traditional chili with the lightness of white beans and chicken. It’s a perfect meal for those who crave the warmth and heartiness of chili but want a twist on the classic beef version. This dish is a great choice for cozy dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping, offering a blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors in every spoonful.
The base of white chicken chili features tender, shredded chicken, often cooked in a slow cooker or on the stovetop until it’s juicy and easy to pull apart. White beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, provide a creamy texture and make the chili feel hearty without being heavy. The addition of green chilies, garlic, and onions infuses the dish with a savory depth, while a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder adds a bit of warmth and complexity.
What makes white chicken chili stand out is its creamy texture. Many recipes incorporate cream cheese or sour cream, which adds richness and smoothness to the broth, making each spoonful comforting and satisfying. You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less green chilies or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, depending on your spice preference. For a bit of tang, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten up the flavors and balance the richness of the chili.
White chicken chili is also incredibly versatile. You can make it as mild or spicy as you like, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Add some corn for a touch of sweetness, or throw in some diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color. Toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or tortilla chips can elevate the chili, giving it a delicious finish with added texture.
Perfect for colder months or when you need a quick, satisfying meal, white chicken chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional chili, yet still hearty enough to fill you up and warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast boneless, skinless, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can white beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup corn frozen
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chicken broth, white beans, salsa verde, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the frozen corn and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Skeptical at first, but this really hit the spot. Thanks!
I’m not a cook, but this was easy enough for me. Yay!!
Not bad, but can someone tell me if the corn is necessary? I forgot to add it.
Why would you even use corn? It’s just filler! Stick to the chicken and beans. Much better!
The corn adds sweetness and texture, but you can totally skip it. It’ll still taste good!
A recipe with so few ingredients and it tasts so good! Simple and delicious!
Too much corn, it was overwhelming! Disapointed.
Yum! This chili is bomb! Who knew chicken could taste this good?
I agree! This chili is amazing. I added some jalapeños for an extra kick!
Hmm, chicken in chili? Isn’t that kinda weird? I’ve always used beef.
Followed the recipe exactly, but it came out a bit bland. Needs more seasoning!
I added more garlic. Better for my nose!
I love garlic too! It really does add a nice kick, especially in chili. Great choice!
Too much garlic can ruin it, don’t you think? I prefer a milder taste.
I don’t know, it seemed a bit bland to me. Maybe add more spice?
Chili without beans is just wrong, but this was okay.
Beans or no beans, chili’s chili! I think this recipe looks good even without the beans. Might give it a try anyway.
I totally agree! Chili without beans doesn’t feel right, but I still enjoyed this recipe. The salsa verde adds a nice twist!
I don’t really like beans, so I just left them out. Wasn’t as good… maybe that was the issue.
This recipe is amazing! My whole family loved it! Definitely a keeper.
So easy to make! I let it simmer for an hour and it turned out rich and delicious!
It was okay, but I think I prefer chili with beef. Just my preference, I guess!
I dunno about this. White chicken chili? Sounds strange. Is it supposed to be spicy?
Amazing recipe! So easy and delicious. I’ll definitely make this again.
I followed the recipe exactly but mine turned out soupy. What went wrong??
This is my go-to recipe for chilly nights! Warm and filling 😋
This does sound great for a cold night! I’m definitely trying it soon! 😊
White beans? never thought of that! Real creamy tho.
It was okay, but I think it needs more spice. Added jalapeños and it helped.
Quick and easy! Just what I needed on a busy weeknight. 🙂
I found it kinda bland. More spices needed for my taste!
Not a fan of chicken. I used turkey instead and it worked!
Love this chili! Perfect for cold nights, I add some cheese on top too. Yum!
Too much chicken, less chicken next time maybe???
Wow, my kids loved this! And I love how simple it is. Thx!
I didn’t have salsa verde, used regular salsa instead. Still good tho!
Glad it turned out good! Regular salsa works too, gotta make it to your taste. 😊
I dunno, but I think salsa verde is like the key part in this recipe. How is it still good? 🤔
This is the best chili I’ve ever made! So easy and delicious!
Cumin and chili powder? I thought it was too much flavor. Just wasn’t right for me. Disappointed.
I’ve made this recipe several times and love it! The cumin and chili powder add depth to the flavor, but I guess it’s not for everyone. Maybe try less spice next time?
Yummy! I made it for a potluck and everyone asked for the recipe! 👍
My kids didn’t like it. They said it was ‘too weird’ compared to regular chili.
I get that! My kids are picky too. Maybe try adding more spices or some cheese to make it more familiar for them.
Weird? It’s just chili but with chicken and white beans. Kids just need to try new things! 😅
Not even close to the chili I make. A lil too soupy!
I think you might’ve missed a step! This chili is actually supposed to be a bit on the soupy side. Maybe try less broth next time?
This was so good! My family devoured it and asked for seconds. Definitely a keeper!
I’m glad to hear that! It’s always great when a recipe becomes a family favorite. What do you like most about it?
Eww chicken beans?? What is this recipe? I don’t get why people like this.
Gonna add some cheese next time for sure.
Cheese sounds great! I’ve never thought of that. Can’t wait to try it too!
Had to tweak it a bit—added some jalapenos for spice because we like it hottt!!! 🔥