Creamy White Chicken Chili
If you love cozy, flavorful comfort food, this White Chicken Chili will steal your heart (and your spoon). It’s creamy, hearty, and full of bold Southwestern flavorthe perfect balance of warmth and spice. With tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and a silky chili base, this dish is a family favorite for easy dinners for large families, team meal ideas, or even meal prep. Whether you cook it on the stove or in your slow cooker, it’s one of those healthy crockpot recipes dump and go meals that delivers every time.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
1 (7 oz) can diced green chilies
1½ tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 (8 oz) package Neufchatel cheese (light cream cheese), cubed
1¼ cups frozen or fresh corn
2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2½ cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
Optional toppings: tortilla chips or strips, Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavor.
Drain and rinse beans. Set 1 cup aside, then puree the remaining beans with ¼ cup of soup broth in a food processor until smooth. This will thicken the chili and make it extra creamy.
Add Neufchatel cheese, corn, the pureed beans, and the whole beans to the pot. Stir well and simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the soup thickens.
Stir in shredded chicken, lime juice, and cilantro. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through. Serve warm topped with cheese, avocado slices, tortilla strips, and more cilantro if desired.
Pro Tips
For a lighter version, use half the cream cheese or swap in Greek yogurt for extra protein.
Make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne.
Perfect for crockpot meal prep combine everything (except cream cheese and lime juice) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in cream cheese and lime juice during the last 30 minutes.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bowl | 383 | 33g | 35g | 14g | 8g | 5g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
FAQs
1. Can I make White Chicken Chili in the crockpot?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except the cream cheese, lime juice, and cilantro in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Stir in cream cheese and lime juice 30 minutes before serving for that creamy finish.
2. Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Great Northern or navy beans work just as well and provide the same creamy texture.
3. Can I freeze White Chicken Chili?
Yes! Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat.
Conclusion
This White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort bowl creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. Perfect for healthy crockpot recipes, team dinners, or easy dinners for big families, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal you can make any night of the week. Packed with tender chicken, beans, and spice, it’s hearty enough to stand alone yet light enough to enjoy year-round.