Bowl of creamy white chili topped with cilantro and cheese

Creamy White Chili

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy White Chili is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, flavorful, and offers a delightful twist on traditional chili. With its creamy texture and nutritious ingredients, this chili can warm you up on a chilly day or serve as a satisfying meal for your family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to make!

How to Make Creamy White Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 (15.5 ounce) cans great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
  • 2 (4 ounce) cans chopped green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions:

  1. Gather ingredients.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook and stir until chicken is no longer pink in the center and juices run clear, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in beans, chicken broth, green chiles, salt, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the flavors have blended, about 30 minutes.
  4. Remove chili from heat; stir in sour cream and whipping cream until fully mixed.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy White Chili

Creamy White Chili is best served hot. You can ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or tortilla chips for extra crunch. It also pairs well with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy White Chili

If you have leftovers, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy White Chili

  • Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version; just shred it and add it to the pot.
  • For a lighter version, you can replace sour cream and heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
  • Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn can increase flavor and nutrition.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this chili by omitting the chicken and adding extra beans or vegetables. You could also use plant-based cream alternatives for a vegan option.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute great Northern beans with other types of white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans.

2. Is this chili spicy?
The cayenne pepper adds some heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! Creamy White Chili can be made a day ahead. The flavors will deepen, and it will taste even better when reheated.