Easy Recipe for Creamy White Chicken Chili
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner because it's quick, easy, and delicious! It's also easily customizable to your liking. Let's dive into this creamy, comforting, and flavorful white chicken chili recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (15-ounce) can of corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or shredded cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pot, you may need to do this in batches to ensure proper browning.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the corn, great northern beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the chili to thicken slightly. Don't boil after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious white chicken chili hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. You can also whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water at the end.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Meal prep friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
This easy white chicken chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends and family. Enjoy!
