What is in white chicken chilli?

At its core, white chicken chilli contains shredded chicken breast, white beans, green chilies, and a creamy broth made with chicken stock, cream cheese, and sour cream. Additionally, onions, garlic, cumin, oregano, and lime juice add depth and balance. Finally, optional toppings like avocado, cilantro, and cheese enhance the final dish.

What’s the difference between chili and white chicken chilli?

As has been noted, traditional chili features a tomato-based broth with beef and bold spices, while white chicken chilli skips the tomatoes entirely. Instead, it uses chicken broth and cream, creating a milder, creamier, and altogether lighter experience. Also, white beans replace red beans, and chicken stands in for beef, further differentiating the two.

Why is it called white chicken chilli?

Because the chili’s primary ingredients — chicken, white beans, and dairy — all have light colors, the dish appears pale compared to its red counterpart. Therefore, the name “white chicken chilli” reflects both its color and its defining ingredients.

Is white chicken chilli watery?

In general, properly made white chicken chilli has a rich, creamy consistency, thicker than soup but not quite as dense as stew. Even so, if your chili turns out too watery, you can fix it by mashing some beans directly into the pot to release their natural starches. Additionally, a quick cornstarch slurry (a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of water) thickens it quickly without altering the flavor.

Can I make white chicken chilli in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! In fact, white chicken chilli adapts beautifully to slow cooking. To illustrate, combine all ingredients except the cream cheese, sour cream, and lime juice in the slow cooker. After that, cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Before serving, stir in the dairy and lime for a perfectly creamy finish.

Is white chicken chilli spicy?

Actually, white chicken chilli is typically milder than traditional chili, although green chilies add gentle heat. Nevertheless, you can easily adjust the spice level by adding fresh jalapeños, chili flakes, or your favorite hot sauce.

White Chicken Chilli Recipe: Easy, Creamy & Packed with Flavor

Description

This White Chicken Chili is creamy, comforting, and packed with tender chicken, white beans, and green chilies. It’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights, and it comes together easily with simple pantry ingredients. With a rich broth flavored with garlic, cumin, and a hint of lime, this hearty chili is a delicious twist on the classic. Serve it with tortilla chips, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Juice of 1 lime

Optional Toppings:

Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Shredded cheese
Avocado slices
Tortilla chips

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook Chicken: Add chicken breasts to the pot, along with white beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Make It Creamy: Stir in sour cream, heavy cream (if using), and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Serve warm with tortilla chips on the side.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut—just add it after simmering the broth and beans.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or extra green chilies.
Prefer a thicker chili? Mash some of the beans before adding the chicken back in.
This chili freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: ~350 kcal
Fat: ~14g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Protein: ~30g