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Bowl of creamy white chicken chili topped with cilantro and lime slices

White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and zesty flavors for a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced provides aromatic flavor

For the Chili

  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth liquid base
  • 2 cans diced green chilies (4 oz each) adds mild heat and flavor
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin for warmth and earthiness
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano provides a herby note
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika adds color and subtle smokiness
  • 1/2 small lime, juiced brings brightness
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning
  • 2 cans great northern beans (15 oz each) adds creaminess and bulk
  • 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) for creaminess
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh) adds sweetness and texture
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded protein source

For Garnishes

  • to taste fresh cilantro adds freshness
  • to taste shredded cheese adds richness
  • to taste tortilla chips provides crunch
  • to taste green onions adds a mild onion flavor
  • to taste avocado adds creaminess

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it’s softened, about 3–5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Making the Chili

  • Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the diced green chilies. Stir in the ground cumin, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and paprika.
  • Add the lime juice, followed by salt and pepper to taste.
  • Drain and rinse the great northern beans in a strainer. Measure out a ladleful of the beans and puree in a food processor with a splash of broth until smooth (optional for creaminess).
  • Add the pureed beans back into the soup along with whole beans and corn. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and shredded cooked chicken until combined.

Serving

  • Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours; refrigerate for 3–4 days or freeze for up to three months. Gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently. Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and speed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g
Keyword Chili Recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, Healthy Recipes, White Chicken Chili
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