I’ll be honest — some nights I’m just too tired to stand over the stove. Between homework help, laundry piles, and the dog that keeps sneaking socks from the basket, dinner feels like one more mountain to climb. That’s when this Keto White Chicken Chili came into my life. I first made it on a rainy Tuesday, with whatever was left in the fridge. When I saw my picky kids actually finish their bowls (and even ask for seconds), I felt downright grateful. Now, this chili is my safety net. When life feels heavy, I know I can get a warm, creamy pot of comfort on the table with hardly any fuss.
👉 If you also love meals that hug you from the inside, you might enjoy the coziness of this Peruvian Chicken Stew — it has that same family-dinner magic.
Why You’ll Love This Keto White Chicken Chili
Comforting Flavor Without the Carbs
Traditional chili can be heavy, especially with beans. This version trades those carbs for a creamy, flavorful base that’s just as satisfying but easier on your stomach. The spices dance together, giving every spoonful that classic chili warmth without weighing you down.
Family-Friendly and Meal-Prep Ready
This isn’t just another “diet recipe.” It’s one you’ll actually crave. Kids like it mild, adults can pile on jalapeños — everyone gets what they need. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so tomorrow’s lunch is already solved.
Light Yet Filling for Every Season
Unlike red chili, which feels wintry, this one is bright and adaptable. It’s hearty enough for cold nights yet light enough to serve at a summer gathering. That’s why it has a permanent spot in my rotation.
If you’re exploring other low-carb wins, try this clever Chicken Crust Pizza — it’s a smart way to satisfy cravings while staying on track.
Ingredients for Keto White Chicken Chili
Core Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chilies
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt, more to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 brick (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Swaps
- Chicken: Swap with rotisserie chicken for busy nights.
- Cream cheese: Try a dairy-free almond-based version if sensitive.
- Extra vegetables: Add zucchini or cauliflower rice to bulk it up without carbs.
For another creamy, high-protein twist, you might enjoy this Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad — it uses a similar dairy-protein combo.
How to Make Keto White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. This simple step lays down the foundation of flavor for your chili.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Stir in the chicken pieces, cooking until they’re lightly browned on the outside. If you’re using shredded rotisserie chicken, just warm it through — you don’t want it to dry out.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken bone broth and green chilies. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld into something rich and comforting.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Turn the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts completely. Add the heavy cream and shredded cheese, stirring gently so the mixture turns smooth and velvety.
Step 5: Taste and Top
Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed. Serve the chili hot, with toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, extra shredded cheese, or jalapeño rounds.
👉 If you want a pressure-cooked shortcut, this Chicken White Bean Chili Instant Pot shows how quick and easy the process can be.
Why This Recipe Works
Cream Cheese Creates Creamy Texture
Instead of flour or starch, cream cheese thickens the broth naturally, keeping it low-carb but velvety smooth.
Green Chilies Add Heat Without Carbs
They bring just enough spice and tang while keeping the dish light.
Bone Broth Boosts Flavor & Nutrition
It delivers depth of flavor and nutrients without extra calories.
Lean Chicken Keeps It Light
High in protein, low in fat — a perfect balance.
Seasonings Tie Everything Together
Each spice adds a layer: cumin for warmth, oregano for earthiness, chili powder for a gentle kick.
For another Mexican-inspired comfort dish with bold spices, check out this Mexican Chicken and Rice Bake.
Variations and Adaptations
Slow Cooker Version
Add all ingredients (except cream cheese, cream, and shredded cheese) to a crockpot. Cook on low 6 hours, then stir in the creamy additions before serving.
Instant Pot Shortcut
Cook onions and garlic on sauté mode, add chicken and broth, and pressure cook for 15 minutes. Stir in the creamy parts afterward.
Dairy-Free Swap
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a still-luscious result.
Extra Protein Additions
Stir in extra shredded chicken or even collagen powder to boost protein for meal prep days.
For slow cooker lovers, here’s a great Crockpot Recipes White Bean Chicken Chili that shows how cozy and hands-off dinner can be.
Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken breast dries quickly. If simmering longer than 20 minutes, switch to thighs or add shredded rotisserie near the end.
Adding Cream Cheese Too Early
High heat can make it curdle. Always wait until the broth cools slightly before stirring in.
Skimping on Seasoning
This dish relies on layers of spice. Taste and adjust before serving.
Letting the Chili Get Watery
Keep the lid off while simmering if you want a thicker consistency.
If you want to practice seasoning confidence, these Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a flavorful place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Keto White Chicken Chili?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat gently, and stir in a splash of cream if it looks too thick.
What toppings go best with this recipe?
Fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and lime wedges all shine. If you love bold toppings, you’ll enjoy the flavor explosion in these Street Corn Chicken Enchiladas.
How do I thicken Keto White Chicken Chili without cornstarch?
The combo of cream cheese and shredded cheese thickens beautifully. For extra thickness, simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
Final Encouragement
I know the weight of walking into a messy kitchen at 6 p.m., heart heavy, wondering how you’ll stretch your energy one more time. This chili has carried me through those nights, and I hope it carries you, too. May it bring you warmth when you’re tired, comfort when you’re lonely, and a table full of happy faces eager to share one more bowl together.
Keto White Chicken Chili
Equipment
- Large Pot
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs diced or shredded
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 2 cans diced green chilies 4 oz each
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, until softened.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. If using rotisserie chicken, just warm through.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add broth and green chilies. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted. Add heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with desired toppings like cilantro, avocado, or jalapeños.