White Chicken Chili Recipe That Everyone Absolutely Loves

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy, flavorful white chicken chili. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing game-day meal, this chili checks every box. Unlike traditional red chili, this version combines tender shredded chicken, hearty white beans, green chilies, and a rich, creamy broth that’s packed with layers of flavor. In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to make the perfect bowl from scratch, step-by-step, with smart variations, serving ideas, storage tips, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Looking for inspiration? Try our creamy chicken tortilla soup that’s just as satisfying!

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

What is White Chicken Chili and Why You’ll Love It

A Comforting Twist on Classic Chili

White chicken chili is a delicious alternative to traditional beef chili. Instead of tomato-based broth and red beans, it uses a smooth and creamy base made from chicken broth, white beans, and cream or cream cheese. This creates a mellow, rich flavor profile that’s lighter in color but bold in taste.

The base delivers a perfect harmony of spice and creaminess. It’s cozy, filling, and full of textures—from tender chicken to velvety broth and subtle bites of green chilies. It’s not just chili—it’s a hug in a bowl.

How It Stands Out from Red Chili

The biggest difference? The ingredients. Traditional chili relies on beef, tomatoes, and kidney beans, while white chicken chili calls for:

• Shredded chicken (fresh, leftover, or rotisserie)
• Cannellini or Great Northern beans
• Green chilies and jalapeños
• Chicken broth and cream-based components like cream cheese

This switch not only lightens the dish but allows the flavors to shine in a gentler, balanced way. It’s ideal for those who love spice but want it mellowed with creamy textures.

The Irresistible Flavor and Texture Combo

What makes this chili so craveable is its flavor depth. It blends mild heat from jalapeños and green chilies with a creamy broth thickened by beans and cheese. Add in sweet corn and a splash of Worcestershire and hot sauce for that umami punch, and you have a soul-satisfying meal that everyone enjoys—even picky eaters.

Don’t miss our zucchini cornbread casserole to pair with it—it’s a match made in heaven.

Ingredients That Make This White Chicken Chili Irresistible

Chicken Options: Fresh, Rotisserie, or Leftovers

You can’t go wrong with the protein here, but depending on your time and preference, you have options:

• Fresh bone-in skinless chicken breast adds depth to the broth while cooking.
• Rotisserie chicken cuts the prep time in half while still offering flavor.
• Leftover turkey or chicken? A perfect way to repurpose them.

Discover great ideas like using crispy chicken Caesar sandwiches for any leftover poultry.

The Creamy Base: Beans, Broth, and Cream Cheese

The magic of white chicken chili lies in its creamy, thick base. The recipe typically uses:

• Cannellini beans: Mild and soft, ideal for thickening the chili
• Chicken broth: The flavor foundation—go low-sodium to control seasoning
• Half and half or cream cheese: Adds richness and makes it velvety smooth

Optional step: Puree a portion of the beans with broth for an even silkier texture. A handheld immersion blender works wonders here.

Flavor Boosters: Green Chilies, Hot Sauce, Spices

No chili is complete without seasoning. This version brings the heat and balance with:

• Mild green chilies (from a can)
• Jalapeños (seeded for less spice)
• Frank’s hot sauce or cayenne
• Worcestershire and mustard powder for depth
• A dash of chili powder, cumin, and oregano

These ingredients aren’t just “heat” additives—they elevate the entire dish’s aroma and mouthfeel.

Check out our carrot potato soup for another richly layered comfort recipe.

How to Make White Chicken Chili Step-by-Step

Stove Top Method Explained

Making white chicken chili on the stove top is straightforward and delivers deep flavor. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeños. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Thicken the Base: Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw taste.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in chicken broth and half and half, stirring to prevent lumps.
4. Incorporate Beans: Blend one cup of the drained beans with a bit of broth and add it to the pot along with the rest of the whole beans. This thickens the chili naturally.
5. Add Seasonings: Toss in your spice mix, Worcestershire sauce, green chilies, and hot sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then nestle it into the pot along with sweet corn. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, uncovered, until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Shred and Finish: Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in softened cream cheese until completely melted and creamy.

Don’t miss our tuscan white bean soup for another hearty, healthy white bean dish.

Crock Pot Instructions for Busy Days

Prefer a “set it and forget it” approach? This version is ideal for workdays or gatherings.

1. Prep Base: Sauté onions, jalapeños, and garlic in butter on the stovetop. Add flour and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer mixture to the slow cooker.
2. Assemble the Chili: Add raw chicken, broth, green chilies, beans (both pureed and whole), hot sauce, Worcestershire, seasonings, and corn.
3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
4. Shred & Cream: Once chicken is tender, shred it. Stir in cream cheese and half and half. Cover and heat for 10 more minutes before serving.

This hands-off method still gives you that creamy, cozy finish—without hovering over the stove.

Tips to Get That Perfect Creaminess and Flavor

• Use softened cream cheese to avoid clumps in the broth.
• Blend a portion of the beans—not all—for a natural thickening agent.
• Simmer gently—boiling too fast can toughen the chicken.
• Spice to taste: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce gradually to control heat.

Discover great ideas like our crockpot chicken corn chowder for another slow-cooked winner.

White Chicken Chili Variations and Customization Ideas

Low-Carb or Keto Adjustments

Watching carbs? No problem. Try these tweaks:

• Skip the beans entirely or reduce them significantly.
• Swap corn for extra shredded chicken or cauliflower.
• Use heavy cream instead of half and half to keep fat content up while reducing carbs.

This variation retains all the creaminess without the carb load.

Vegetarian-Friendly Tweaks

Want to skip the meat? This chili adapts well to vegetarian diets:

• Substitute chicken with extra beans, chickpeas, or even diced mushrooms.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add zucchini or sweet potatoes for a hearty bite.

It’s every bit as flavorful—and super satisfying.

Check out our creamy mushroom keto casserole for a meatless comfort food classic.

Spicy or Mild: Heat Level Adjustments

Whether you love a fiery kick or prefer things mild, this chili can do both:

• For more spice: Keep jalapeño membranes, double the cayenne, or add diced chipotles.
• For less heat: Remove seeds and membranes from peppers and use mild green chilies.
• Balance heat with cream: Add more cream cheese or sour cream to cool things down.

Taste as you go and tweak it to your preference.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Sides to Serve with Chili

White chicken chili is a hearty dish, but adding the right sides can turn it into a full-on comfort feast. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is a classic pairing that complements the creamy chili perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Artisan-style bread is ideal for dipping and soaking up every drop.
• Salads: A crisp, tangy salad like our tomato cucumber and onion salad adds freshness and crunch.

Toppings to Take It to the Next Level

Toppings add layers of texture and flavor. Mix and match from these favorites:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for cooling
• Sliced avocado for creaminess
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for brightness
• Crushed tortilla chips or Fritos for crunch
• Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for melt-in-your-mouth goodness
• A squeeze of fresh lime for tang

These additions turn your chili into a fully customizable bowl.

Creative Leftovers: Nachos, Bowls, and More

Leftovers? You’re in luck. This chili transforms easily:

• Loaded Nachos: Spoon over tortilla chips and top with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.
• Rice Bowls: Serve over brown or white rice with salsa and avocado.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with reheated chili and bake.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cheesy chicken enchilada casserole to see how chili ingredients can go the distance.

Make Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Tips

How Long It Lasts and How to Reheat It Right

White chicken chili is ideal for meal prep. Here’s what you need to know:

• In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low, stirring often.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 60-second intervals.

Always stir between intervals to ensure even heat.

Freezing Without Sacrificing Flavor

Want to freeze a batch? Follow these tips:

• Let chili cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip bags laid flat for easy stacking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cream-based soups can separate slightly after freezing, but stirring during reheating brings them back to life.

Batch Prep for Meal Planning

Double the recipe and divide into individual portions. This makes weekday lunches or quick dinners a breeze.

Don’t miss our healthy street corn pasta salad—another prep-friendly crowd-pleaser.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Chicken Chili

Conclusion – Why White Chicken Chili is a Must-Try

White chicken chili is more than just a cozy recipe—it’s an anytime go-to comfort meal packed with flavor, creaminess, and versatility. Whether you use the stovetop or the crock pot, this recipe adapts beautifully to your schedule and tastes. You’ll fall in love with how easy it is to customize, prep ahead, and even reinvent as leftovers. It’s one of those recipes that your family will request again and again.

Don’t miss our creamy potato and pea chowder if you’re craving even more bowl-worthy comfort.

Print