Creamy White Chicken Chili

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans white beans (drained and rinsed; Great Northern or cannellini)
  • 1 can corn (drained; fresh or frozen can also be used)
  • 1 can green chilies (mild or spicy, based on preference)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (or ½ cup heavy cream)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a little oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Spices: Stir in ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne (if using). Let the spices bloom for about a minute to enhance their flavor.
  4. Build the Base: Add the chicken broth, drained beans, corn, and green chilies to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  5. Combine Chicken and Simmer: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Creamy Finish: Stir in the cream cheese or heavy cream until fully melted and incorporated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Choosing Chicken: Opt for thighs for a juicier result or use bone-in chicken for added flavor.
  • Thickening the Chili: Mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy green chilies, or add jalapeños for extra kick.
  • Storage: Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Creamy White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili is sure to impress. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish any time of the year and savor every delicious spoonful!