Rating: 3.64
(154)

White Chicken Chili

September 11, 2024

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.

White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili
3.64 from 154 votes
A hearty and flavorful white chicken chili made with tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Servings 4 people
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg
Calories: 350kcal
Meal Type: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chicken, Chili, comfort food
Cooking Method: Boiled
Time: 30-45 Min
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  1. 3 stars
    I followed the recipe but I think I added too much salt. Be careful, folks!

  2. User avatar stacy.quitzon67 says:

    3 stars
    I made this and it was kinda bland. I think it needs more spice.

    1. User avatar wellRespected says:

      2 stars
      Bland? Really? I thought it was just fine. Maybe you just need to season it more?

    2. User avatar toshiko.buckridge says:

      5 stars
      I totally get what you mean! I added jalapeños to mine and it was much better! Spice is key.

  3. 4 stars
    I tried this recipe and my kids loved it! I added some corn for a little sweetness, and it turned out great.

  4. User avatar issac.purdy17 says:

    1 star
    Meh. I prefer beef chili. White chicken just doesn’t cut it for me.

    1. User avatar cheryle.schimmel29 says:

      4 stars
      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? 😄

  5. User avatar lorenzo.schulist79 says:

    3 stars
    I found the recipe a bit confusing. Are we supposed to add the beans before or after the chicken? 🤔

  6. User avatar Errol Gutmann DVM says:

    3 stars
    I’m not really sure about using heavy cream in chili. Isn’t chili supposed to be more… chunky? 🤔

    1. User avatar Eddie the Computer says:

      4 stars
      I think the heavy cream adds a nice richness to the chili! It’s a creamier version for sure. Give it a shot! 😊

    2. User avatar myron.daugherty says:

      2 stars
      But isn’t chili meant to be thick? Heavy cream sounds odd for chili. I’d stick to just beans and chicken.

  7. User avatar rae.hegmann2006 says:

    4 stars
    Easy to make and yummy! Thank you for the recipe.

  8. 5 stars
    This chili is soooo good! I added more spices and it was a hit! 5 stars for sure! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

  9. User avatar twyla.sipes says:

    4 stars
    Really easy to make! I added some jalapenos for a spicy kick. Will make again!

  10. User avatar kendrick.tremblay says:

    3 stars
    It’s alright, but I found it kinda bland. Maybe needs more chili powder? Just my opinion. 😕

    1. User avatar Effrafax of Wug says:

      4 stars
      I think you’re right! A little more chili powder could make it more flavorful. I usually add some jalapeños too! 🌶️

  11. User avatar su.jacobi49 says:

    5 stars
    Yum!

  12. User avatar maynard.ankunding says:

    4 stars
    I cooked this for my family, and they all loved it! Definitely making again. Thanks! 🥰

    1. User avatar merle.morar says:

      5 stars
      So happy to hear that! I made it last week too and everyone loved it as well! It’s a keeper for sure. 😊

  13. User avatar dwight.conn says:

    1 star
    Waste of time. My kids didn’t even eat it. 1 star.

  14. 3 stars
    It was alright, but I think I prefer my chili with red beans. This tasted a bit bland to me.

  15. User avatar tomas.jacobi18 says:

    3 stars
    Easy recipe, but mine turned out too thick! I think I did it wrong or something. 🤷‍♂️

    1. User avatar ronnie.monahan1974 says:

      4 stars
      Maybe you added too much chicken broth? It can really change the texture. Next time, try reducing it a bit! 😊

    2. User avatar Kindred says:

      3 stars
      Thick? Sounds like a win to me! Just add some water next time if it’s too thick! 😁

  16. User avatar clarence.steuber92 says:

    2 stars
    I dunno, white beans in chili sounds weird. Doesn’t it need kidney beans? 🤔 Pass.

  17. 5 stars
    This recipe is amazing! Just made it last night and my family loved it. Super creamy and flavorful! 😊

    1. User avatar Android 17 says:

      5 stars
      I tried it too! This chili is my new obsession. Creamy goodness! 👍

  18. User avatar malik.herman85 says:

    4 stars
    Yummy! I added corn too since I had some. It was delish! Def making again. 🌽

    1. User avatar Falmer Shaman says:

      5 stars
      Corn sounds like a great addition! I might try that next time. Thanks for sharing! 🌽👌

  19. 1 star
    Chili with chicken? Isn’t that supposed to be beef? 🤔

  20. User avatar Max Quordlepleen says:

    5 stars
    This was absolutely delicious! The flavors were perfect and it was so easy to make. Definitely a keeper!

    1. 3 stars
      It was ok, but I think I put in too much cumin. ya think that changed the flavor?

    2. User avatar misha.renner82 says:

      5 stars
      I can’t believe how good this turned out! It was so easy, I’m definitely making it again. Thx for sharing!

  21. 3 stars
    Can u use canned chicken instead? Im not great at cooking raw chicken.

  22. 4 stars
    Honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first, but this turned out delicious! The spices really bring it to life.

  23. User avatar jae.hamill1958 says:

    5 stars
    Yum! I added a bit of lime juice for a pop of flavor 🌟

  24. 3 stars
    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. 🤷‍♂️

  25. User avatar danette.bogan21 says:

    3 stars
    Hmmm, not my favorite. I think I prefer red chili better. 😕

  26. User avatar Shaddam Corrino IV says:

    5 stars
    My kids loved it, they always picky eaters. Will make again!!

  27. User avatar darwin.witting says:

    5 stars
    This was soooo good! I added some extra cheese and it was a hit at dinner! Everyone loved it!

    1. 5 stars
      Sounds awesome! Glad it worked out for you! I gotta try that extra cheese trick next time. 😋

  28. 5 stars
    This chili is amazing! Tastes so good and it’s super easy to make.

  29. 3 stars
    It’s good, but I think it could use more beans or something. Just felt a bit off.

    1. User avatar carmen.marks1957 says:

      4 stars
      I get what you mean! More beans would definitely add texture. I usually toss in some corn too for extra flavor!

  30. User avatar roman.hackett98 says:

    4 stars
    Easy to make and love the flavors! I gotta say, if you don’t use fresh garlic, you’re missing out.

  31. User avatar winter.barton1950 says:

    5 stars
    Made this for dinner last night. My husband said it was the best chili he’s ever had!

    1. User avatar retha.kutch2007 says:

      5 stars
      That’s awesome! I love hearing that it impressed your husband. Will definitely try this recipe! 😊

  32. User avatar apryl.nader says:

    5 stars
    Great dish! I added some jalapeños for extra kick.

    1. User avatar roselyn.kreiger69 says:

      2 stars
      I dunno about adding jalapeños… isn’t it supposed to be more about the white beans and chicken flavor? Just saying.

    2. User avatar williams.kunde88 says:

      5 stars
      Jalapeños sound awesome! I love some spice in my chili. Gonna try that next time! 🌶️

  33. 5 stars
    Yum! Best chicken chili I’ve ever made. I didn’t have heavy cream, so I used milk. Still turned out great!

  34. 4 stars
    Very easy and quick to make. Perfect for busy weeknights!

    1. User avatar Frodo Baggins says:

      5 stars
      I made this last night and it was a hit! Super tasty and so easy to follow. Thanks for sharing!

  35. User avatar Hasimir Fenring says:

    4 stars
    Did you really have to use green chiles? They scare me! I used red ones instead! Not sure how that will turn out…

    1. User avatar Falmer Shadowmaster says:

      4 stars
      Red chiles are cool too! Just might make it a bit sweeter. Hope it turns out great!

  36. 2 stars
    This is too spicy for my kids, even with just half the chili powder! Maybe it’s just my palate, but wow!

  37. User avatar laurena.schultz says:

    5 stars
    This chili is AMAZING! So creamy and flavorful. My family devoured it in minutes!

    1. 3 stars
      It sounds good, but isn’t white chili, like, supposed to be spicy? This one seems kinda mild.

    2. User avatar yasmin.parker41 says:

      5 stars
      I totally agree! This chili is so delicious. My kids love it too! I could eat it every day.

  38. 2 stars
    Not a fan of the sour cream, can we skip it?

    1. 4 stars
      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!

    2. User avatar Gag Halfrunt says:

      2 stars
      Nah, you really need the sour cream for flavor! Without it, might be a bit bland. Just try it their way.

  39. 5 stars
    Yummy! My husband wants me to make this every week. 😍 Definitely a keeper!

  40. User avatar rudy.schamberger says:

    5 stars
    I made this for a potluck and it was a hit! Everyone asked for the recipe. Will make again!

    1. User avatar sherice.dickens55 says:

      5 stars
      This sounds amazing! I can’t believe everyone loved it. I might try making it for my family too.

  41. User avatar cornelius.boehm1998 says:

    1 star
    I just don’t get it. Why would you make chili with chicken instead of beef? Crazy!

  42. User avatar tristan.rodriguez13 says:

    4 stars
    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.

    1. User avatar jewell.konopelski says:

      2 stars
      I dunno, if you didn’t have all the ingredients, how can it be the same recipe? Seems kinda off.

    2. User avatar CTRLplusW says:

      5 stars
      I’m glad it turned out good! Modifying recipes is the best way to make them your own. What did you change?

  43. 5 stars
    Love the creaminess! I don’t even like beans but it was good. Who knew?

  44. User avatar hattie.sanford25 says:

    3 stars
    I added too much salt by mistake, so it was a bit salty. But still a good recipe!

  45. User avatar lula.gusikowski says:

    4 stars
    Great base recipe! I like to customize with corn and avocado, gives it a fresh twist. Pretty filling!

  46. User avatar jerald.denesik84 says:

    4 stars
    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!

  47. User avatar ernesto.kuhn says:

    2 stars
    I thought this was too bland. Maybe add more spice or something? I like it hottt!

  48. User avatar Jada Lowe says:

    5 stars
    wow!!

  49. User avatar margarette.lowe54 says:

    3 stars
    I used canned chicken instead of breasts because I was short on time. Still turned out fine!

  50. User avatar oralee.schmitt64 says:

    2 stars
    Easy to make. Too many ingredients tho, I could just use some soup mix. But it was ok.

  51. User avatar michelina.smith99 says:

    4 stars
    Dude, I messed up and used kidney beans instead of white beans. Still tasted fine! 😂

  52. 1 star
    I just don’t get why you would put cream in chili?? Sounds weird.

  53. User avatar donnell.rippin1972 says:

    2 stars
    This was alright.. didn’t really hit the spot for me. Too creamy maybe?

    1. User avatar shyla.ohara14 says:

      4 stars
      I thought it was awesome! The creaminess was just right for me. Maybe you could try less cream next time?

  54. User avatar Peregrin Took says:

    5 stars
    This recipe was amazing! My family loved it. I added some avocado on top too. Definitely making again!

  55. User avatar abbey.borer1991 says:

    3 stars
    I don’t know, man. I thought it was gonna be better. Something was missing… maybe more spices?

    1. User avatar madeline.bartell says:

      4 stars
      I think you’re right! A little more spice could really kick it up a notch. Maybe some jalapeños too?

  56. User avatar Vincenzo Johns says:

    5 stars
    This was absolutely delicious! My family loved it!

  57. User avatar stacy.damore1998 says:

    2 stars
    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.

  58. 5 stars
    This is the best chili I’ve ever made! So creamy and flavorful. My family loved it!

  59. User avatar mavis.vonrueden70 says:

    4 stars
    I added some jalapeños for extra kick. Yum!

  60. 2 stars
    I thought this was too bland. Needs more spice!

    1. User avatar laverna.schroeder1958 says:

      4 stars
      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?

  61. User avatar devon.rowe92 says:

    1 star
    Nop. This looks too much like a soup… more chili and less cream please.

  62. User avatar angle.wehner75 says:

    5 stars
    This chili is amazing! So creamy and packed with flavor. I added some extra cheese on top, and it was perfect.

  63. User avatar anisa.kovacek says:

    2 stars
    Do you really need both sour cream and heavy cream? Seems like overkill to me.

  64. User avatar eleonor.kautzer54 says:

    4 stars
    Chicken chili? The title sounds weird, but it’s actually good. A bit heavy though.

  65. User avatar nicolas.volkman58 says:

    4 stars
    This recipe is awesome. Can I use black beans instead? I only have those at home.

    1. User avatar bong.bayer says:

      4 stars
      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.

  66. User avatar domingo.leannon1982 says:

    3 stars
    i did not have heavy cream so i just added more sour cream. it turned out ok i guess.

  67. User avatar trevor.gaylord2011 says:

    2 stars
    Not my thing. Too soupy for my taste. I prefer thicker chilis.

  68. User avatar hanh.hickle2025 says:

    5 stars
    Soo good! Just made it and I can’t stop eating! Thank you for the recipe. ❤️

    1. User avatar terminatorXYZ says:

      3 stars
      Looks good, but is it really worth all that cream? I mean, can’t you just make it with less? 🤔

    2. 5 stars
      I’m glad you loved it! This chili is definitely a go-to in our house. I could never get enough of it! 🥰

  69. User avatar Hermina Schmeler says:

    2 stars
    Too bland for my taste. I expected more flavor. Maybe add jalapeños next time?

  70. User avatar corrie.mitchell41 says:

    4 stars
    Yummyy! I put it in a tortilla and had it like a taco! Next level stuff.

  71. User avatar stepanie.ferry64 says:

    2 stars
    This chili is way too creamy for my taste. I prefer a more broth-y chili. Next time I might half the cream.

  72. User avatar letha.konopelski says:

    4 stars
    Honestly, I was skeptical at first. White chili? I thought chili had to be red! But it surprised me, really tasty.

  73. User avatar melinda.effertz says:

    3 stars
    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.

    1. User avatar CTRLplusW says:

      4 stars
      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?

    2. User avatar alexia.koelpin1979 says:

      3 stars
      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!

  74. User avatar mellie.schoen says:

    5 stars
    Yum! So good I wanna eat it every day! Bless this recipe 🙌

    1. User avatar Flame Atronach says:

      3 stars
      Every day? Really? That seems a bit much. Isn’t it kinda rich with all those creams?

    2. User avatar rickiestmorty says:

      5 stars
      I totally agree! This chili is a game changer, I make it all the time now! ❤️

  75. User avatar Super Saiyan 2 Goku says:

    2 stars
    Not what I expected, too much of a creamy texture. Prefer it more soupy! Not my fav, sorry.

  76. User avatar france.rowe61 says:

    4 stars
    Tasted like a warm hug! But I think I put too much cumin. 😬

  77. User avatar CTRLplusW says:

    4 stars
    Too many chiles for my taste, maybe I should’ve gone with milder ones. Still, it was good overall.

    1. User avatar ike.bogisich37 says:

      4 stars
      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!

  78. 1 star
    White beans are not for chili. Use red beans! Just sayin’.

    1. User avatar terminatorXYZ says:

      3 stars
      But isn’t chili supposed to have red beans? I’m not so sure about white beans in this.

    2. User avatar ALTplusF4 says:

      4 stars
      I actually think the white beans add a nice creaminess to the chili! 😉

  79. User avatar Lumberjack says:

    4 stars
    White beans? I used black beans instead, and it still worked out. Not traditional, but who cares?!

    1. 4 stars
      I think black beans would totally change the flavor! But I guess if it works for you, why not? Everybody has their twist! 😊

    2. 2 stars
      LOL black beans in chili? That’s not even right! 😂 Just stick to the recipe next time.

  80. 3 stars
    White beans? Like, those are the big beans right? They weren’t bad, but I prefer regular chili with black beans. Just my opinion.

  81. User avatar Hagraven says:

    3 stars
    Uhh… didn’t have green chiles so used red ones instead. Still good, I guess?

  82. User avatar Quickbeam says:

    1 star
    Yuck! My husband hated it. The texture was weird and the beans were too mushy. Not making this again.

  83. User avatar Humma Kavula says:

    3 stars
    Nice recipe but, can I ask, why you no put tomatoes? I think it needs tomatoes.

  84. User avatar jame.medhurst says:

    2 stars
    This recipe took way longer than expected… 30 mins and it ain’t event done???

    1. 4 stars
      I had the same issue! Maybe our stoves are just slow? 🤷‍♀️

    2. 5 stars
      30 mins isn’t too bad for a hearty chili! Sometimes recipes take longer. Don’t rush it!

  85. User avatar domenic.bradtke1980 says:

    2 stars
    I don’t know about this… white beans in chili? Sounds weird. Are you sure it’s not a soup?

    1. User avatar roxanne.boehm1965 says:

      5 stars
      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.

    2. 4 stars
      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!

  86. User avatar w00d_ch0p says:

    1 star
    Too many steps! I’m not a chef, just wanted something easy. Ended up burning it a little 🙁

  87. User avatar georgina.lockman says:

    5 stars
    This chicken chili is sooo good! Super creamy and flavorful, my family loves it!

  88. User avatar keneth.wolff says:

    1 star
    Not as good as I thought it would be. Tried it once and didn’t want to again. Sorry!

  89. User avatar isaiah.ledner1957 says:

    5 stars
    Perfect for chilly nights! Comfort food at its finest. ☁️

  90. User avatar lulu.wisozk62 says:

    5 stars
    This chili is amazing! So creamy and flavorful, my whole family loved it.

    1. User avatar deidre.hammes53 says:

      5 stars
      I made this for my family too and they loved it! So good with cheese on top.

  91. User avatar glory.turcotte1953 says:

    5 stars
    Delicious! Perfect for a cold day. I added some corn for extra sweetness and it was a hit! 🌽

    1. User avatar cruz.waters says:

      5 stars
      Corn sounds like a great addition! I’ll try that next time. 😋

  92. User avatar Dr. Dean Stiedemann says:

    2 stars
    I don’t know about the heavy cream, seems a bit too much. But overall, it’s ok.

  93. User avatar Arthur Philip Deodat says:

    5 stars
    This chili is AMAZING! So creamy and flavorful. My family loved it!

    1. User avatar Frost Giant says:

      5 stars
      I’m glad you enjoyed it! This recipe really hits the spot on a cold day.

  94. 5 stars
    OMG, delicious! I added some jalapeños for extra heat. My family loved it, even the kids ate it!

    1. User avatar columbus.bartoletti86 says:

      5 stars
      Sounds awesome! Jalapeños are a great idea! 😋

  95. 2 stars
    Can you even call this chili? It’s too creamy.

    1. User avatar Saruman the White says:

      2 stars
      Creamy?! That’s not real chili! Chili should be hearty and spicy, not like a soup with chicken!

    2. 5 stars
      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.

  96. User avatar Mr. Prosser says:

    5 stars
    So simple to make! I love that it’s quick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.

  97. User avatar violette.doyle says:

    4 stars
    Wow, I never thought white chicken chili could be this good! I added some corn and it was perfect. Will make again!

  98. 5 stars
    I just LOVE this! So creamy and rich. Best chili ever!! 🥄

  99. User avatar smartestRedditor says:

    2 stars
    I followed the recipe, but it turned out really bland. Maybe I should’ve added more spices?

  100. 4 stars
    Just made it. Smells good but haven’t tasted yet. Fingers crossed!

  101. User avatar bret.wintheiser says:

    2 stars
    My grandma made somethin like this but hers was better. No offense.

  102. User avatar Spider Worker says:

    5 stars
    This chili is so creamy and delicious! My kids loved it and even went back for seconds! Definitely a 5-star recipe!

3.64 from 154 votes
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