When the temperature drops, nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming bowl of chili. While traditional beef-based red chili is a classic, this Creamy White Chicken Chili offers a lighter, zestier, and more velvety alternative that has taken Pinterest by storm. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the biggest appetites but features a bright, creamy finish that feels fresh and modern.
This is a budget-friendly meal that utilizes clever shortcuts like rotisserie chicken and canned white beans to get you from the stove to the table in just 30 minutes. It is the perfect one-pot meal for those busy weeknights when you want a “slow-cooked” taste without the eight-hour wait.
Why This Chili is a Game-Changer
The secret to this specific recipe is the texture. Many white chicken chilis can be thin or broth-heavy. Our version uses a combination of smashed white beans and a touch of cream cheese to create a rich, thick base that clings to the shredded chicken. It’s the ultimate healthy comfort food—packed with fiber and protein but feeling totally indulgent.
Ingredients & Quantities
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 small Yellow Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Cannellini or Great Northern Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) Diced Green Chilies
- 3 cups Chicken Broth (low sodium)
- 1.5 teaspoons Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (mild)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 3 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded (Rotisserie chicken works best!)
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/4 cup Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- The Bean Trick: Add one can of the white beans to a small bowl and smash them with a fork until they form a paste. Add this paste, along with the second can of whole beans, to the pot. Why? The smashed beans act as a natural thickener.
- Simmer: Stir in the chicken broth, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Make it Creamy: Turn the heat to low. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until completely melted and incorporated into the broth. If you want it even creamier, stir in the half-and-half at this stage.
- Season: Taste the chili and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Topping Recommendations
A good chili is only as good as its toppings! We recommend:
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded Monterey Jack or White Cheddar cheese
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Like most soups, the flavor actually improves the next day.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the chili has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
- Freezing: Because of the cream cheese, this chili can sometimes change texture when frozen. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend stopping after Step 4. Add the cream cheese and cream fresh when you reheat the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Add everything except the cream cheese and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours. Stir in the cream cheese 30 minutes before serving.
Is this chili spicy? As written, it is very mild. The green chilies provide flavor rather than heat. If you want a spicy version, add a diced jalapeño in Step 1 or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
What is the best chicken to use? Rotisserie chicken is the fastest option. However, if you have leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken breast, they both work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Creamy White Chicken Chili is proof that you can have a gourmet-style, comforting meal even on your busiest nights. It’s warm, inviting, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
