When it’s cold outside, I love a warm bowl of chili. My favorite is creamy white chicken chili. It has tender chicken, smooth cream cheese, and a bit of green chile kick.
There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of white chicken chili on a chilly evening. This White Chicken Chili Recipe With Cream Cheese is packed with tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a rich, velvety broth infused with cream cheese and zesty seasonings.
It’s an easy, comforting meal that brings a little kick of spice while remaining incredibly smooth and satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
Key Takeaways
- This creamy white chicken chili is perfect for chilly days, game nights, or family dinners.
- It features tender white meat chicken, white beans, and rich cream cheese.
- Slightly spicy with green chiles, it provides a comforting, warm meal.
- Easy to prepare in under an hour, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- This recipe yields approximately 5 servings, making it family-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
- Total calories per serving is 397 kcal.
Optional Toppings
While the main ingredients are key, toppings can make your chili even better. Here are some ideas to add flavor and texture:
| Optional Toppings |
|---|
| Avocado, diced |
| Sour cream |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) |
| Extra chopped cilantro |
| Thinly sliced radishes |
| Lime wedges |
These toppings add color and complement the chili’s creamy texture. Try different toppings for a unique taste every time.
How to Choose the Best Chicken for Your Recipe
Choosing the right chicken is key for the best white chicken chili. You can use rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken. Each choice has its own benefits.
Fully cooked rotisserie chicken is easy and convenient. It’s already cooked and full of flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores.
For cooking chicken yourself, there are a few ways. Boiling chicken breasts is one method. Cook 2 pounds of raw chicken until it’s tender, then cut it into small cubes.
Using an Instant Pot is another good option. It cooks chicken quickly and easily. This makes it simple to mix into the chili.
Slow cooking chicken is also a great choice. Cook 1 pound of raw chicken breasts for 3 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low. Season with Goya Adobo seasoning if you like. Then, shred the chicken and add it to the chili.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Chicken Type | Preparation | Time | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken | Fully cooked | Minimal | Convenient and flavorful |
| Boiled Chicken | Boil and dice | Varies | Tender and integrates well |
| Instant Pot Chicken | Pressure cook and shred | Quick | Tender and easy to combine |
| Slow Cooker Chicken | Slow cook and shred | 3-6 hours | Effortless and flavorful |
Choosing the best chicken is crucial for the best white chicken chili. Whether you choose convenience or cook your own, the right chicken makes a big difference.
Tips for Making a Healthier Version
Making a healthy white chicken chili is easy. Swap full-fat cream cheese for low-fat. This cuts down fat without losing creaminess.
Boost the health by adding more beans and veggies. Beans give you fiber and protein, making you feel full. Use about 2 x 15 ounces cans of beans.
Watch your sodium? Use low-sodium chicken broth. For stovetop, use 3 cups. For slow cooker and Instant Pot, use 1 cup.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37 g |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sodium | 822 mg |
These changes cut calories to about 320 kcal per serving. You’ll still enjoy a hearty, tasty bowl. Small changes make a big difference in a healthy white chicken chili.
Try using plain yogurt instead of heavy cream. Choose yogurt with at least 2% fat. It keeps the chili creamy and tangy, reducing saturated fats.
With these tweaks, you can enjoy a healthier version of creamy white chicken chili. No guilt needed.
Spicy White Chicken Chili Variations
For those who love an extra kick in their chili, these white chicken chili recipe variations offer a delightful twist.
I always enjoy experimenting with different spices and ingredients to create a spicy white chicken chili that’s truly memorable.
Alternative Spices
One way to dial up the heat is by incorporating alternative spices. Adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can instantly elevate the spiciness.
Another popular choice is using spicy green chiles instead of the milder variety. These not only provide a tasty zing but also blend seamlessly with the creaminess of the base.
Adding Extra Heat
Introducing additional ingredients like jalapeños or poblano peppers will further enhance the fiery flavor.
You can sauté these peppers along with your onions and garlic to infuse the chili with a robust and spicy aroma.
For the bravest of chili lovers, consider mixing in a touch of hot sauce or a sprinkle of habanero for an adventurous flare.
With these spicy white chicken chili variations, you can customize your dish to match your heat tolerance while still enjoying the comforting and hearty nature of the original recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Spicy Green Chiles | 1 (4.5 oz) can |
| Jalapeños | 2, chopped |
| Poblano Peppers | 1, diced |
| Hot Sauce | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Habanero | 1 small, finely chopped (optional) |
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with White Chicken Chili
There are many tasty ways to pair white chicken chili. You can serve it with cornbread or a warm tortilla.
Cornbread can be made from a mix or from scratch, for ease or to add your own touch.
For a lighter side, try a green salad or sliced avocado. Mexican coleslaw or a Mexican chopped salad are also great.
Taco coleslaw is quick and delicious, needing just 5 minutes to make.
For a heartier meal, serve the chili over rice or with baked potatoes. White rice is easy and cheap. Mexican red rice adds a special touch, taking about 25 minutes to cook.
Sweet potato fries are a tasty choice, whether frozen or homemade. Skillet charred corn adds a smoky flavor, perfect with the chili.
Buttermilk biscuits are quick, taking only 20 minutes. Corn tortillas are also a great option, easy to make.
For extra flair, try stuffed jalapeños. They use leftover chili ingredients. For dessert, Mexican S’mores or Mexican rice pudding are unique and impressive.
Don’t forget a refreshing drink. A spicy jalapeno basil Moscow mule or a bourbon margarita is perfect. They add to the meal’s enjoyment.
Benefits of Using Cream Cheese in Chili
Adding cream cheese to your creamy white chicken chili is a big plus. It makes the chili creamy and flavorful.
This makes it a key ingredient in this favorite dish.
Creaminess and Texture
One great thing about cream cheese benefits in chili is the creaminess it adds. Using 8 ounces of cream cheese makes the chili smooth.
This smoothness makes the chili thicker and more enjoyable to eat.
The cream cheese also thickens the chili well. You don’t need other thickening agents. This makes the chili richer and more satisfying.
Flavor Enhancement
Cream cheese benefits also include better flavor. Its slight tang goes well with chili spices and ingredients.
This adds depth to the dish.
This mix of benefits makes cream cheese special. It turns your chili into a dish that’s both warm and unforgettable.
Substitutions and Alternatives
Creating your own White Chicken Chili is fun. You can use different ingredients to make it your own.
If you like turkey better, use 1.5 to 2 lbs. of shredded turkey instead of chicken.
Want to try different beans? Use pinto or black beans. Just add 1 to 2 (14-ounce) cans of your favorite beans.
Need a dairy-free version? Try coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese. Use 4 ounces of it.
For less sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth.
Want creamier chili? Add ¼ to ½ cup of half and half or sour cream. Both make the chili smooth and rich. These changes let you enjoy chili your way, meeting your dietary needs and tastes.
Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
Course: MainCuisine: American, Tex-MexDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes30
minutes450
kcalIngredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen or fresh corn
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1/2 teaspoon lime juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for topping)
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, place them in a large pot with chicken broth over medium heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove, shred with forks, and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the Seasonings: Stir in diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
- Combine the Beans & Broth: Add the drained beans, corn, and shredded chicken back into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
- Final Touches: Add a splash of lime juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
Notes
- Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For extra protein, add cooked shredded turkey or ground turkey.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Warming Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Nutritional Information for White Chicken Chili Recipe With Cream Cheese
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Potassium | 750mg |
| Vitamin A | 30% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 12% DV |