Creamy White Chicken Chili

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When the weather calls for comfort, few dishes answer with the same warmth and satisfaction as a hearty bowl of Creamy White Chicken Chili. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome, combining shredded tender chicken, creamy broth, and vibrant white beans with just the right amount of spice. Topped with cool sour cream and fresh jalapeños, every spoonful is a comforting explosion of flavor.

Unlike the traditional red chili, this creamy white version delivers a luscious texture thanks to cream cheese and a hint of heavy cream. The sweetness of corn and the bite of green chiles bring depth, while smoked paprika and cumin give it that signature chili base. It’s a one-pot wonder ideal for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or a cozy night in.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating Creamy White Chicken Chili is straightforward, but having the right tools can elevate your cooking experience and ensure perfect results:

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Retains heat evenly and allows flavors to develop slowly without burning.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for seasoning balance.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps mix ingredients gently, especially when incorporating cream cheese.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for prepping fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, and jalapeños.
• Ladle: For easy serving into bowls without spills.

Whether you’re simmering on the stove or prepping a big batch for guests, these tools ensure your chili turns out creamy, flavorful, and comforting every time.

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Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Chili

Each ingredient in this chili plays a distinct and flavorful role, blending together to create a creamy, slightly spicy, soul-warming bowl.

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: The heart of the dish, providing satisfying protein and a tender texture that soaks up the creamy, spiced broth.
• White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern): These mild, soft beans add body and creaminess, making the chili hearty and filling.
• Sweet Corn Kernels: Adds a subtle pop of sweetness and bright texture contrast to the savory elements.
• Diced Green Chiles: Mild but flavorful, they bring gentle heat and southwestern flair without overwhelming the palate.
• Onion and Garlic: Foundational aromatics that infuse the chili with depth and aroma from the very beginning.
• Cream Cheese: The magic behind the velvety texture. It melds with the broth and beans to create a rich, creamy base.
• Chicken Broth: Acts as the liquid foundation, allowing flavors to simmer and blend while keeping the consistency just right.
• Heavy Cream: Just a touch makes the chili silkier and rounds out the sharper spice notes.
• Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Salt & Pepper: These spices give that familiar chili warmth, earthiness, and balance.
• Fresh Cilantro and Jalapeños (Optional Garnish): For color, freshness, and extra zing right before serving.

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How To Make the Creamy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in the diced green chiles, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to release their aroma and deepen their flavor.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Beans

Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and corn. Stir everything together so the flavors begin to meld.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend all ingredients.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted. Then pour in the heavy cream, mixing until the chili is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy it warm with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.

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Serving and Storing Creamy White Chicken Chili

This chili is made to impress right from the first scoop. Serve it hot, topped with a generous spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a few jalapeño slices for a kick. For a heartier meal, pair it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or even a crusty sourdough slice perfect for dipping.

Leftovers? They get even better. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore its velvety texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the onion, garlic, and spices first, then transfer everything except the cream cheese and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the dairy at the end until melted.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with a blend of sour cream and shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack) for a similar creamy consistency.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s gently spiced. The green chiles and jalapeños bring a mild heat, but you can dial it up with cayenne or tone it down by skipping the jalapeño garnish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver! Just shred the rotisserie chicken and add it where the recipe calls for cooked chicken.

How do I thicken the chili?

If you’d like it even thicker, mash some of the white beans before adding them or let the chili simmer uncovered a bit longer.

Can I make this dairy-free?

While the creamy base is a highlight, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and adjust seasonings to balance the flavor.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy White Chicken Chili, here are more cozy meals to keep the comfort coming:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a cheesy, baked classic.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole layered with pasta and rich tomato flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta that brings both indulgence and greens to the plate.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a no-fuss slow-cooked dinner.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini that’s loaded with comfort and flavor.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so it’s ready for chilly nights and cozy dinners.

You can also explore more of my favorite meals and weekly dishes on my Pinterest: Life With Olivia.

If you give this Creamy White Chicken Chili a try, let me know in the comments below! Did you go spicy with extra jalapeños? Or maybe swapped in Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Your tweaks and tips help others bring this meal to life their way—and I love hearing all about it.

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