White Chicken Chili Stove Top Easy is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—ready in minutes, yet rich in cozy, homemade flavor. Hi, I’m Amanda, the heart behind BeamRecipes, where I share dishes made for real life: approachable, nourishing, and full of warmth. Cooking has always been my way of creating connection, and this creamy stovetop White Chicken Chili embodies that spirit. It’s hearty, simple, and ideal for busy nights when you crave something wholesome. At BeamRecipes, I believe food should bring joy, not stress—and this chili does just that, turning weeknight dinners into comforting memories.

Serving Versatility

This easy White Chicken Chili shines in its versatility. Serve it classic-style in a bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or spoon it over rice for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, ladle it into lettuce cups or serve with warm tortillas for a wrap-style dinner. You can even enjoy it solo with a handful of tortilla chips for crunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie works perfectly)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist)
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shredded chicken, beans, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to coat everything in the seasonings.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle into bowls, top with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, and enjoy warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just about half an hour on the stovetop.
• Budget-friendly ingredients: Simple pantry staples you likely already have.
• Big, cozy flavor: Creamy broth, tender chicken, and a perfect blend of mild spices.
• Nutritional value: High in protein, packed with fiber-rich beans, and easily made lighter.
• Customizability: Adjust spice levels, use leftover rotisserie chicken, or swap toppings as you please.

Cultural or Cooking Technique Note

This stovetop white chicken chili is a cozy American twist on traditional chili, swapping the usual tomato base for creamy broth and white beans. Cooking it on the stove keeps it fast and flavorful, infusing every bite with homemade warmth without waiting hours like with a slow cooker.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a filling, hearty meal.
2. Pair with warm flour tortillas or cornbread for a comforting dinner.
3. Spoon it into a wrap with shredded lettuce and avocado for a portable lunch.
4. Top with crushed tortilla chips, extra cheese, and jalapeño slices for a spicier kick.

Pro Tips for Success

• For extra creaminess, mash a few of the beans before adding them to the pot.
• Control heat by adjusting chili powder or adding diced jalapeños.
• If using rotisserie chicken, add it toward the end to keep it tender.
• Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half if you prefer a richer consistency.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the chicken – If you’re using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, add it toward the end of cooking. Letting it simmer too long can make it dry and stringy instead of tender.
2. Skipping the bean rinse – Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to your chili. This removes excess sodium and prevents a starchy or overly salty flavor.
3. Boiling after adding dairy – Once you stir in sour cream or cheese, keep the heat low. Boiling can cause curdling and ruin that smooth, creamy texture.
4. Not tasting as you go – Seasoning can vary depending on your broth or beans. Taste midway through cooking and adjust with salt, lime juice, or extra spice to balance the flavors.
5. Using too much liquid – White chicken chili should be thick and hearty, not soupy. Start with the recommended broth amount and add more only if needed for your preferred consistency.

4 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this White Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors get even better after sitting for a day. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving.

2. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely. Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese for extra heat. Adjust to your spice preference.

3. What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great lighter alternative that still adds creaminess and tang. You can also use a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for extra richness.

4. How can I make it dairy-free?
Simply skip the sour cream and cheese, and instead blend a portion of the beans to create a creamy texture. Use coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt if you want added creaminess without dairy.

Closing Paragraph

This White Chicken Chili Stove Top Easy recipe is the definition of cozy weeknight comfort. It’s fast, flavorful, and full of goodness—all the things that make homemade dinners worth it. Try it your way, add your favorite toppings, and make it your own. Don’t forget to share your version, rate the recipe, and let me know how it turned out!

notes Final Thoughts

When the weather cools down or you just need something soothing, this stovetop White Chicken Chili is my go-to comfort in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that warms hearts as much as it fills bellies. I hope it becomes one of your favorites, too.