This easy white chicken chili is warm and comforting, perfect for cozy meals. Made with chicken, white beans, and a sprinkle of spices, it’s creamy and delicious!
Honestly, I love how quick this meal comes together. Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you’re ready! It’s my go-to when I want something tasty without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking, and it adds a nice flavor. You can swap it with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil if needed.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out of onions, shallots work well, though they have a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute; use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Jalapeño Peppers: These add heat, but feel free to skip them if you’re sensitive to spice. You could also use bell peppers for a milder option.
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans are perfect for this chili. If you don’t have them, navy beans can work too, or even chickpeas for a twist.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient! You can also use shredded turkey or any leftover chicken you have. For a vegetarian option, consider using more beans or lentils.
Chicken Broth: This adds rich flavor. Vegetable broth is an excellent substitute for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Create a Flavorful White Chicken Chili?
The key to making your chili flavorful is in layering the ingredients and cooking them just right. Here’s how:
- Start by heating the oil and cooking the onions until they’re soft. This brings out their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic and jalapeños next; this allows their flavors to develop before adding the other ingredients.
- When adding beans and chicken, the broth and spices should mix well. Stir it all to ensure even flavor throughout.
- Don’t rush the simmering! Let it cook for at least 20 minutes so all the spices meld together nicely.
- Finally, stirring in sour cream or yogurt at the end makes it creamy and delicious. It’s a simple trick that elevates the dish!
With these tips, your white chicken chili will be comforting and full of flavor—perfect for cozy meals!
Easy White Chicken Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy white chicken chili will take about 10 minutes for prep and about 25-30 minutes for cooking. In total, you should set aside about 40 minutes to enjoy this hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Sauté the Veggies:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Peppers:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and the jalapeño peppers, if you’re using them. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This will ensure the pepper’s heat starts to develop in the oil.
3. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the white beans, diced green chilies, shredded chicken, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld!
4. Let It Simmer:
Bring your chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will give the flavors time to deepen and blend perfectly.
5. Finish with Creaminess:
Once simmered, remove the pot from heat. If you want an extra creamy texture, stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt at this point. It adds a nice richness to the chili!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious white chicken chili hot, topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze before enjoying!
Now, enjoy this comforting dish on a chilly day! It’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, shred or dice the chicken as needed for the chili.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen the longer it sits. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian chili! Simply substitute cooked chicken with an additional can of white beans or use cooked lentils. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
