Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stovetop, slow cooker, or instant pot, this recipe adapts seamlessly to your preferred cooking method.
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Healthier Creaminess: Unlike many cream-based soups, this chili achieves its creamy texture without relying heavily on dairy, making it a lighter yet indulgent option.
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Quick and Easy: With the use of pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, this dish comes together swiftly, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Olive oil
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Onion
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Garlic
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Chicken broth
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Green chilies
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Ground cumin
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Paprika
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Cayenne pepper
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Dried oregano
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Lime juice
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Salt and pepper
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White beans
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Corn
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Sour cream
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Cooked chicken
Directions
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
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Add Broth and Spices: Pour in chicken broth, green chilies, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Incorporate Beans and Corn: Drain and rinse the white beans. Take a portion of the beans and blend with a bit of broth until smooth, then add this mixture back to the pot along with the whole beans and corn. This technique thickens and adds creaminess to the chili.
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Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Finish with Creaminess: Remove the pot from heat and stir in sour cream and cooked, shredded chicken.
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Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe yields approximately 5 servings.
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild or hot green chilies and modifying the amount of cayenne pepper.
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Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey or make it vegetarian by adding extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
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Dairy Alternatives: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezing: Allow the chili to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
FAQs
How can I thicken my white chicken chili?
Mashing a portion of the beans or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water can help thicken the chili.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the chili to maintain the correct texture and cooking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What toppings go well with white chicken chili?
Common toppings include shredded cheese, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors often deepen when made a day ahead. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How do I adjust the spice level?
To decrease spiciness, use mild green chilies and omit cayenne pepper. To increase heat, add more cayenne or include diced jalapeños.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.
What can I serve alongside this chili?
Cornbread, a simple green salad, or crusty bread pair well with this chili.
How long does it last in the freezer?
When stored properly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be excellent additions to this chili.
Conclusion
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a versatile and delectable dish suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings. Its adaptability in preparation methods and ingredients allows you to tailor it to your preferences, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.
Print
Creamy White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, hearty white beans, and a rich, creamy broth infused with green chilies and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make chili is perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepared on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot. With a delicious balance of mild heat and creamy texture, this dish is a family favorite that can be customized with various toppings like avocado, cheese, and tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (4 oz) cans green chilies
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate Beans and Corn: Mash or blend a portion of the white beans with some broth to create a thicker consistency, then add it back to the pot along with the whole beans and corn.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 15-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finish with Creaminess: Remove from heat, then stir in sour cream and cooked, shredded chicken.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust heat by using mild or hot green chilies and modifying the amount of cayenne.
- Thicker Chili: Mash more beans or add a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap sour cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Protein Substitutes: Use turkey instead of chicken or make it vegetarian by adding extra beans and veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American