White Chicken Chili is a flavorful, hearty dish that offers a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional chili. Made with tender chicken, white beans, and a combination of aromatic spices, this chili is both comforting and nourishing. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, and its creamy texture and rich flavors will quickly make it a favorite in your recipe rotation.
What sets White Chicken Chili apart from its beef counterpart is the use of lean chicken breast and white beans, which provide a light, protein-packed base for the soup. The chicken is typically cooked with garlic, onions, and a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano, which infuse the dish with warmth and depth. A splash of chicken broth and a touch of cream create a silky, rich broth that complements the tender chicken and creamy beans.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can make it as mild or spicy as you prefer by adjusting the amount of chili powder, jalapeños, or green chilies. For a heartier dish, you can add corn, bell peppers, or even some green onions to enhance the flavor and texture. Top the chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Not only is White Chicken Chili delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while white beans offer fiber and essential nutrients. This makes it a well-balanced meal that will keep you full and satisfied without feeling heavy. It’s also perfect for meal prep, as the flavors develop even more the next day, making leftovers just as good, if not better.
Whether you’re craving something cozy for dinner or preparing for a game day feast, White Chicken Chili is an easy and flavorful dish that will please everyone. Its rich, comforting taste and customizable nature make it a go-to recipe that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into small pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 onion medium, diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans white beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cans green chiles diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the white beans, diced green chiles, chicken broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices if desired.
I followed the recipe but I think I added too much salt. Be careful, folks!
I made this and it was kinda bland. I think it needs more spice.
Bland? Really? I thought it was just fine. Maybe you just need to season it more?
I totally get what you mean! I added jalapeños to mine and it was much better! Spice is key.
I tried this recipe and my kids loved it! I added some corn for a little sweetness, and it turned out great.
Meh. I prefer beef chili. White chicken just doesn’t cut it for me.
I get what you mean! Beef chili has that rich flavor. But this white chicken chili is a nice change sometimes. You could always add some beef to it, right? 😄
I found the recipe a bit confusing. Are we supposed to add the beans before or after the chicken? 🤔
I’m not really sure about using heavy cream in chili. Isn’t chili supposed to be more… chunky? 🤔
I think the heavy cream adds a nice richness to the chili! It’s a creamier version for sure. Give it a shot! 😊
But isn’t chili meant to be thick? Heavy cream sounds odd for chili. I’d stick to just beans and chicken.
Easy to make and yummy! Thank you for the recipe.
This chili is soooo good! I added more spices and it was a hit! 5 stars for sure! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Really easy to make! I added some jalapenos for a spicy kick. Will make again!
It’s alright, but I found it kinda bland. Maybe needs more chili powder? Just my opinion. 😕
I think you’re right! A little more chili powder could make it more flavorful. I usually add some jalapeños too! 🌶️
Yum!
I cooked this for my family, and they all loved it! Definitely making again. Thanks! 🥰
So happy to hear that! I made it last week too and everyone loved it as well! It’s a keeper for sure. 😊
Waste of time. My kids didn’t even eat it. 1 star.
It was alright, but I think I prefer my chili with red beans. This tasted a bit bland to me.
Easy recipe, but mine turned out too thick! I think I did it wrong or something. 🤷♂️
Maybe you added too much chicken broth? It can really change the texture. Next time, try reducing it a bit! 😊
Thick? Sounds like a win to me! Just add some water next time if it’s too thick! 😁
I dunno, white beans in chili sounds weird. Doesn’t it need kidney beans? 🤔 Pass.
This recipe is amazing! Just made it last night and my family loved it. Super creamy and flavorful! 😊
I tried it too! This chili is my new obsession. Creamy goodness! 👍
Yummy! I added corn too since I had some. It was delish! Def making again. 🌽
Corn sounds like a great addition! I might try that next time. Thanks for sharing! 🌽👌
Chili with chicken? Isn’t that supposed to be beef? 🤔
This was absolutely delicious! The flavors were perfect and it was so easy to make. Definitely a keeper!
It was ok, but I think I put in too much cumin. ya think that changed the flavor?
I can’t believe how good this turned out! It was so easy, I’m definitely making it again. Thx for sharing!
Can u use canned chicken instead? Im not great at cooking raw chicken.
Honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first, but this turned out delicious! The spices really bring it to life.
Yum! I added a bit of lime juice for a pop of flavor 🌟
Tasted good but didn’t look like the picture at all. How do people get their food to look so nice? I’m clearly not a chef. 🤷♂️
Hmmm, not my favorite. I think I prefer red chili better. 😕
My kids loved it, they always picky eaters. Will make again!!
This was soooo good! I added some extra cheese and it was a hit at dinner! Everyone loved it!
Sounds awesome! Glad it worked out for you! I gotta try that extra cheese trick next time. 😋
This chili is amazing! Tastes so good and it’s super easy to make.
It’s good, but I think it could use more beans or something. Just felt a bit off.
I get what you mean! More beans would definitely add texture. I usually toss in some corn too for extra flavor!
Easy to make and love the flavors! I gotta say, if you don’t use fresh garlic, you’re missing out.
Made this for dinner last night. My husband said it was the best chili he’s ever had!
That’s awesome! I love hearing that it impressed your husband. Will definitely try this recipe! 😊
Great dish! I added some jalapeños for extra kick.
I dunno about adding jalapeños… isn’t it supposed to be more about the white beans and chicken flavor? Just saying.
Jalapeños sound awesome! I love some spice in my chili. Gonna try that next time! 🌶️
Yum! Best chicken chili I’ve ever made. I didn’t have heavy cream, so I used milk. Still turned out great!
Very easy and quick to make. Perfect for busy weeknights!
I made this last night and it was a hit! Super tasty and so easy to follow. Thanks for sharing!
Did you really have to use green chiles? They scare me! I used red ones instead! Not sure how that will turn out…
Red chiles are cool too! Just might make it a bit sweeter. Hope it turns out great!
This is too spicy for my kids, even with just half the chili powder! Maybe it’s just my palate, but wow!
This chili is AMAZING! So creamy and flavorful. My family devoured it in minutes!
It sounds good, but isn’t white chili, like, supposed to be spicy? This one seems kinda mild.
I totally agree! This chili is so delicious. My kids love it too! I could eat it every day.
Not a fan of the sour cream, can we skip it?
You could definitely skip the sour cream! It won’t be as creamy, but I bet it will still taste good. Just add a little more heavy cream if you want!
Nah, you really need the sour cream for flavor! Without it, might be a bit bland. Just try it their way.
Yummy! My husband wants me to make this every week. 😍 Definitely a keeper!
I made this for a potluck and it was a hit! Everyone asked for the recipe. Will make again!
This sounds amazing! I can’t believe everyone loved it. I might try making it for my family too.
I just don’t get it. Why would you make chili with chicken instead of beef? Crazy!
Had to modify it a bit ’cause I didn’t have all the ingredients, but still turned out pretty good! Will make again for sure.
I dunno, if you didn’t have all the ingredients, how can it be the same recipe? Seems kinda off.
I’m glad it turned out good! Modifying recipes is the best way to make them your own. What did you change?
Love the creaminess! I don’t even like beans but it was good. Who knew?
I added too much salt by mistake, so it was a bit salty. But still a good recipe!
Great base recipe! I like to customize with corn and avocado, gives it a fresh twist. Pretty filling!
I was skeptical at first, but this really turned out well. I added some corn for extra texture and it was a hit! Will make again!
I thought this was too bland. Maybe add more spice or something? I like it hottt!
wow!!
I used canned chicken instead of breasts because I was short on time. Still turned out fine!
Easy to make. Too many ingredients tho, I could just use some soup mix. But it was ok.
Dude, I messed up and used kidney beans instead of white beans. Still tasted fine! 😂
I just don’t get why you would put cream in chili?? Sounds weird.
This was alright.. didn’t really hit the spot for me. Too creamy maybe?
I thought it was awesome! The creaminess was just right for me. Maybe you could try less cream next time?
This recipe was amazing! My family loved it. I added some avocado on top too. Definitely making again!
I don’t know, man. I thought it was gonna be better. Something was missing… maybe more spices?
I think you’re right! A little more spice could really kick it up a notch. Maybe some jalapeños too?
This was absolutely delicious! My family loved it!
I dunno, it felt too bland to me. Maybe I’m just not a chili person? The sour cream was a nice touch, but I expected more kick.
This is the best chili I’ve ever made! So creamy and flavorful. My family loved it!
I added some jalapeños for extra kick. Yum!
I thought this was too bland. Needs more spice!
I think it depends on personal taste! I love the subtleness of flavors in this recipe but could see how some might want it spicier. Maybe add jalapeños next time?
Nop. This looks too much like a soup… more chili and less cream please.
This chili is amazing! So creamy and packed with flavor. I added some extra cheese on top, and it was perfect.
Do you really need both sour cream and heavy cream? Seems like overkill to me.
Chicken chili? The title sounds weird, but it’s actually good. A bit heavy though.
This recipe is awesome. Can I use black beans instead? I only have those at home.
You can use black beans, but it’ll change the flavor a lot! Still, I say go for it if that’s what you have.
i did not have heavy cream so i just added more sour cream. it turned out ok i guess.
Not my thing. Too soupy for my taste. I prefer thicker chilis.
Soo good! Just made it and I can’t stop eating! Thank you for the recipe. ❤️
Looks good, but is it really worth all that cream? I mean, can’t you just make it with less? 🤔
I’m glad you loved it! This chili is definitely a go-to in our house. I could never get enough of it! 🥰
Too bland for my taste. I expected more flavor. Maybe add jalapeños next time?
Yummyy! I put it in a tortilla and had it like a taco! Next level stuff.
This chili is way too creamy for my taste. I prefer a more broth-y chili. Next time I might half the cream.
Honestly, I was skeptical at first. White chili? I thought chili had to be red! But it surprised me, really tasty.
I don’t know about using heavy cream. Seems a bit much, don’t you think? I prefer a lighter version, but it did taste good.
I get what you mean! I usually go for lighter options too, but sometimes a little indulgence is nice. Maybe try just a splash of the cream next time?
Heavy cream makes it creamy and rich! I think it’s worth it, but if you want light, just skip it. Don’t be scared to experiment!
Yum! So good I wanna eat it every day! Bless this recipe 🙌
Every day? Really? That seems a bit much. Isn’t it kinda rich with all those creams?
I totally agree! This chili is a game changer, I make it all the time now! ❤️
Not what I expected, too much of a creamy texture. Prefer it more soupy! Not my fav, sorry.
Tasted like a warm hug! But I think I put too much cumin. 😬
Too many chiles for my taste, maybe I should’ve gone with milder ones. Still, it was good overall.
Yeah, I found it a bit spicy too! Maybe next time I’ll try without the chiles as well. But glad you liked it overall!
White beans are not for chili. Use red beans! Just sayin’.
But isn’t chili supposed to have red beans? I’m not so sure about white beans in this.
I actually think the white beans add a nice creaminess to the chili! 😉
White beans? I used black beans instead, and it still worked out. Not traditional, but who cares?!
I think black beans would totally change the flavor! But I guess if it works for you, why not? Everybody has their twist! 😊
LOL black beans in chili? That’s not even right! 😂 Just stick to the recipe next time.
White beans? Like, those are the big beans right? They weren’t bad, but I prefer regular chili with black beans. Just my opinion.
Uhh… didn’t have green chiles so used red ones instead. Still good, I guess?
Yuck! My husband hated it. The texture was weird and the beans were too mushy. Not making this again.
Nice recipe but, can I ask, why you no put tomatoes? I think it needs tomatoes.
This recipe took way longer than expected… 30 mins and it ain’t event done???
I had the same issue! Maybe our stoves are just slow? 🤷♀️
30 mins isn’t too bad for a hearty chili! Sometimes recipes take longer. Don’t rush it!
I don’t know about this… white beans in chili? Sounds weird. Are you sure it’s not a soup?
No way! White beans are the best part! It’s like healthier than normal chili, but still super tasty. It’s definitely not a soup lol.
I get your point, but trust me, it actually works really well! It’s kind of a twist on traditional chili, and the white beans make it nice and creamy. Give it a try!
Too many steps! I’m not a chef, just wanted something easy. Ended up burning it a little 🙁
This chicken chili is sooo good! Super creamy and flavorful, my family loves it!
Not as good as I thought it would be. Tried it once and didn’t want to again. Sorry!
Perfect for chilly nights! Comfort food at its finest. ☁️
This chili is amazing! So creamy and flavorful, my whole family loved it.
I made this for my family too and they loved it! So good with cheese on top.
Delicious! Perfect for a cold day. I added some corn for extra sweetness and it was a hit! 🌽
Corn sounds like a great addition! I’ll try that next time. 😋
I don’t know about the heavy cream, seems a bit too much. But overall, it’s ok.
This chili is AMAZING! So creamy and flavorful. My family loved it!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! This recipe really hits the spot on a cold day.
OMG, delicious! I added some jalapeños for extra heat. My family loved it, even the kids ate it!
Sounds awesome! Jalapeños are a great idea! 😋
Can you even call this chili? It’s too creamy.
Creamy?! That’s not real chili! Chili should be hearty and spicy, not like a soup with chicken!
I think it’s called chili because it’s a version of chili. Every chili doesn’t have to be the same! I love this creamy twist.
So simple to make! I love that it’s quick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Wow, I never thought white chicken chili could be this good! I added some corn and it was perfect. Will make again!
I just LOVE this! So creamy and rich. Best chili ever!! 🥄
I followed the recipe, but it turned out really bland. Maybe I should’ve added more spices?
Just made it. Smells good but haven’t tasted yet. Fingers crossed!
My grandma made somethin like this but hers was better. No offense.
This chili is so creamy and delicious! My kids loved it and even went back for seconds! Definitely a 5-star recipe!