Name: Creamy White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded, if desired and chopped; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 pound boneless, skinless, chicken breasts or thighs; 4-6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature; 1 can white beans, drained; 1/2 cup salsa verde; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; avocado, cheddar cheese, and yogurt (for serving); lime zest and juice (for serving)

Introduction to Creamy White Chicken Chili

When it comes to delightful homemade meals, creamy white chicken chili is a true game-changer. Whether you're enjoying a cozy evening at home or hosting friends for game day, this dish brings warmth and flavor that can’t be beaten. What makes it stand out is its creamy consistency paired with a subtle kick from spices—it's comfort food at its finest!

Not only is this chili delicious, but it's also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences, making it great for everyone around the table. Plus, it can be made on the stove or in a slow cooker, making it a perfect option for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.

Another exciting aspect of creamy white chicken chili is how it beautifully combines wholesome ingredients like chicken, beans, and fresh vegetables. This hearty dish checks off multiple boxes for health and satisfaction. If you're looking to impress or simply enjoy a meal that both nourishes and delights, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire.

Ready to dive into the delightful world of creamy white chicken chili? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Creating a hearty bowl of creamy white chicken chili starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a deliciously comforting meal:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded, if desired and chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
4-6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 can white beans, drained
½ cup salsa verde
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional toppings: avocado, additional cheese, and yogurt for serving, along with lime zest and juice.

Gather these fresh ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to preparing a bowl of comfort that warms the soul. What’s your favorite ingredient to add to chili?

Step-by-Step Preparation for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Gather and prepare your ingredients

To kick things off, let’s get our kitchen ready! You’ll want to gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. For this creamy white chicken chili, you’ll need:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded (if you’d like less heat) and chopped
Spices: 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, plus salt and black pepper to taste
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs)
4–6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 can white beans, drained
½ cup salsa verde
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Toppings: avocado, yogurt/sour cream, lime zest, and juice

Make sure to wash and prepare the vegetables first – nothing beats fresh ingredients!

Sauté the aromatics

Let’s get cooking! Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes fragrant and translucent. Now, stir in the minced garlic, poblano peppers, and jalapeño. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook this delightful mixture for an additional 5–10 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly! It’s a great time to contemplate how amazing your creamy white chicken chili is going to taste.

Cook the chicken and simmer the chili

Now, you’ll want to add the boneless chicken to the pot, along with the chicken broth. Stir everything together and season to your liking with more salt and pepper. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the chicken to cook thoroughly and absorb those delicious flavors.

Mix in the creamy components

While that’s cooking, it’s time to prepare the creaminess! In a small bowl, microwave the cream cheese for about 10–15 seconds until it's soft enough to blend effortlessly. Once the chicken is cooked, pull it out and shred it using two forks. Then, return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the melted cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add the drained white beans, salsa verde, and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring till the cheese melts into that rich, creamy goodness.

Finish with beans and herbs

The final step is where the magic happens! Stir in the fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish. If the chili is too thick, feel free to thin it out with a splash of chicken broth. It should have a silky texture that clings well to chips or tortillas.

Once your creamy white chicken chili is finalized, ladle it into serving bowls and adorn with business how-to toppings: avocado slices, yogurt or sour cream, extra cheese, and a generous sprinkle of lime juice.

Dig in and enjoy every bite! This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to bring warmth and flavor to your weeknight dinners. Happy cooking!

Variations on Creamy White Chicken Chili

Vegetarian Version with Chickpeas

For a lighter twist on your creamy white chicken chili, swap out the chicken for protein-packed chickpeas. Simply add 1 to 2 cans of rinsed chickpeas in place of the chicken. This alteration not only makes the dish vegetarian-friendly but also gives it a lovely texture and heartiness. Don’t forget to maintain those delicious spices to keep it flavorful!

Spicy Version with More Jalapeño

If you love a kick, consider ramping up the heat in your creamy white chicken chili by incorporating more jalapeños. Slice up two or three additional jalapeños, adjusting based on your spice tolerance. Sauté them with the other veggies at the start, and if you're feeling adventurous, toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra fiery burst. You'll have a chili that warms you from the inside out!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Tips for Achieving the Right Consistency

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your creamy white chicken chili, consider using room temperature cream cheese. This helps it blend in seamlessly. If the chili is too thick, simply stir in additional low-sodium chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. A good rule of thumb is to start with 4 cups and adjust from there depending on how thick you like your chili.

How to Adjust Spice Levels

If you prefer a milder chili, feel free to omit the jalapeño or remove the seeds. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of chili powder. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s harder to tone it down once it’s in! Taste as you go to ensure it meets your preference.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Top with avocado and cilantro

To elevate your creamy white chicken chili, consider generously topping it with slices of fresh avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro. The creamy texture of the avocado perfectly balances the chili's flavors, while cilantro adds a refreshing twist. This simple addition not only enhances the dish but also provides a splash of color, making your bowl look irresistible!

Pair with crusty bread or tortilla chips

For a delightful crunch, serve your creamy white chicken chili alongside crusty bread or tortilla chips. Dipping into the chili with a chip or soaking up the flavorful broth with bread can transform your meal into a hearty experience. It's great for casual get-togethers or cozy nights in. You can even toast bread with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra touch!

Time Breakdown for Creamy White Chicken Chili

Preparation Time

Get your ingredients ready in about 15 minutes! This includes chopping your veggies and measuring out your spices for that smooth cooking experience.

Cooking Time

Depending on your method, cooking takes about 20-30 minutes on the stove or 4-7 hours if you’re using a slow cooker. The choice is yours!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at 35-45 minutes for the stove method or a leisurely 4-7 hours for the slow cooker—perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights!

Preparing this creamy white chicken chili is as rewarding as it is tasty. Whether you’re relaxing on a Sunday or rushing on a weekday, this recipe has got you covered!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy White Chicken Chili

When diving into a comforting bowl of creamy white chicken chili, knowing its nutritional profile can help you savor every bite guilt-free!

Calories

A generous serving of this chili typically clocks in around 300-350 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced meal option.

Protein

Packed with protein, this dish has approximately 25-30 grams per serving, mainly sourced from tender chicken and creamy cheese, perfect for muscle recovery after a workout.

Sodium

For those watching their sodium intake, be mindful that each serving contains about 600-800 mg of sodium. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist!

Enjoy this delicious recipe while being conscious of your nutritional intake! For a deeper dive into the health benefits of ingredients, check out Healthline.

FAQs about Creamy White Chicken Chili

Can I prep the chili in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing your creamy white chicken chili in advance is a great way to save time. You can chop your vegetables and even cook the chicken earlier in the week. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the cooking instructions to blend everything together and enjoy a warm, hearty meal!

How to store leftovers?

To store your leftover creamy white chicken chili, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just remember to separate it into individual portions for easy reheating later on.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking for alternatives to cream cheese in your creamy white chicken chili, options like Greek yogurt or sour cream can work wonders. Not only do these add creaminess, but they also bring a tangy flavor to the dish. For a dairy-free option, you could use cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Creamy White Chicken Chili

In summary, creamy white chicken chili is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it on the stove or in a slow cooker, it delivers layers of flavor and satisfying creaminess. Enjoy it topped with your favorite garnishes for a quick weeknight dinner that delights!