White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese

White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, white beans, and mild green chilies. This rich and flavorful chili is the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it an ideal meal for chilly nights or cozy gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a family-friendly recipe that will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – The addition of cream cheese makes this chili irresistibly creamy and smooth.
• Easy to Make – Minimal prep and simple steps make this a perfect weeknight meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Protein-Packed – With chicken and white beans, this dish is hearty and filling.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or rotisserie chicken
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• White beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
• Green chilies
• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Chili powder
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• Salt and pepper
• Lime juice
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Chicken and Broth – Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Shred the Chicken – Remove the cooked chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
4. Add the Beans and Spices – Stir in the white beans, green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Incorporate the Cream Cheese – Cut the cream cheese into small pieces and stir it into the chili until fully melted and blended.
6. Finish with Lime and Cilantro – Stir in fresh lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
7. Serve and Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and serve with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut cream instead of sour cream.
• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then stir in cream cheese before serving.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for more beans or roasted cauliflower.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I thicken white chicken chili?

You can mash some of the beans before adding them to the chili or simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience, though fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels on store-bought broth and seasonings to be sure.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for onions and garlic, then pressure cook on high for 15 minutes with natural release.

What toppings go well with white chicken chili?

Shredded cheese, avocado, jalapeños, tortilla chips, and extra lime juice are great options.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add more green chilies, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño.

Can I use dark meat chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more richness and flavor to the dish.

What type of beans work best?

Cannellini beans, great northern beans, or navy beans work well.

How do I make it less creamy?

Reduce the amount of cream cheese or replace it with a splash of heavy cream.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and plenty of ways to customize, this recipe is a must-try for any chili lover.

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