White Chicken Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that offers a delicious twist on traditional chili. Made with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a flavorful blend of spices, this chili is rich, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy meal. Unlike its tomato-based counterpart, White Chicken Chili features a creamy broth flavored with green chiles and a touch of cumin, creating a warm and inviting dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this chili is easy to prepare and sure to please. Serve it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spices and Broth: Stir in the green chiles, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Beans and Corn: Stir in the beans and corn. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and heavy cream or half-and-half until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
White Chicken Chili is a flavorful and satisfying dish that offers a comforting and creamy alternative to traditional chili. Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite toppings for a warm and inviting dining experience.
