White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a creamy and comforting twist on classic chili. Made with shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a touch of Neufchatel cheese, it’s a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this easy one-pot recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Comforting – The combination of cheese, pureed beans, and a flavorful broth makes this chili rich and velvety.
• One-Pot & Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven – For even cooking and flavor development.
• Cutting Board & Knife – To dice onions, chop cilantro, and prepare toppings.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – For precise seasoning.
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle – To stir and serve the chili.
• Food Processor or Blender (optional) – For pureeing beans to enhance creaminess.

Preparation Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds extra flavor.
• Pre-Chop Ingredients – Having everything ready speeds up the cooking process.
• Rinse the Beans – Reduces excess starch for a smoother consistency.
• Soften Cheese at Room Temperature – Helps it melt evenly into the chili.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (7 oz) can diced green chilies
• 1 ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 (8 oz) package Neufchatel cheese, cubed
• 1 ¼ cups frozen or fresh corn
• 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover works great)
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

• Tortilla chips or strips
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Sliced avocado

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

4. Add chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Puree the Beans (Optional for Extra Creaminess)

6. Drain and rinse cannellini beans.
7. Take 1 cup of beans and blend them with ¼ cup of the broth from the pot in a food processor.
8. If you don’t have a food processor, you can skip this step, but the soup will be slightly less creamy.

Step 4: Add Cheese, Corn, and Beans

9. Stir in Neufchatel cheese, corn, whole beans, and pureed beans.
10. Let everything cook for 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and blends into the broth.

Step 5: Finish the Chili

11. Stir in shredded chicken, lime juice, and 2 tbsp chopped cilantro.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

13. Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings—cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, and extra cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

This White Chicken Chili pairs well with a variety of sides that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread – A slightly sweet and crumbly side that balances the spice of the chili.
2. Mexican Rice – A flavorful and hearty addition that complements the dish.
3. Garlic Bread – Adds a crispy and buttery texture to each bite.
4. Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the creamy chili; consider a simple lime vinaigrette.
5. Guacamole & Chips – The creaminess of avocado and crunch of chips make a great pairing.
6. Roasted Vegetables – A healthy and colorful side that complements the meal.
7. Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits – A cheesy, slightly spicy biscuit that enhances the flavors of the chili.
8. Steamed Rice – A neutral base that absorbs the rich broth and adds extra heartiness.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Using rotisserie or pre-cooked shredded chicken ensures tenderness. If using raw chicken, cook it just until done, then shred it to avoid dryness.

2. Skipping the Bean Puree

Blending a portion of the beans adds natural thickness and creaminess to the chili. Skipping this step will result in a thinner consistency.

3. Adding the Cheese Too Early

Neufchatel cheese should be added after the chili has simmered, allowing it to melt smoothly. Adding it too soon can cause clumping.

4. Forgetting the Lime Juice

Lime juice brightens the dish and balances the rich flavors. Adding it at the end enhances the taste.

5. Not Adjusting Seasonings

Taste the chili before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or spice level as needed. Spices can mellow out during cooking, so an extra pinch may be necessary.

6. Using High Heat Throughout

Letting the chili simmer on medium-low heat allows the flavors to develop. Cooking it on high can lead to rapid evaporation and uneven flavors.

7. Not Letting It Rest

Letting the chili sit for 5–10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.

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Recipe Tips, Storage, and Reheating Instructions

Recipe Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh lime juice and cilantro add brightness to the chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños for a spicier version. Reduce the spice if serving to kids.
• Thicken as Needed – If the chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.
• Make It Dairy-Free – Swap Neufchatel cheese for a dairy-free alternative or leave it out entirely.
• For a Thicker Chili – Mash some of the beans instead of pureeing them for a chunkier texture.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Allow to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Reheating Instructions

Stovetop:

• Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If needed, add a splash of broth to loosen the consistency.

Microwave:

• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
• Cover with a microwave-safe lid to prevent splatters.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except cheese, lime juice, and cilantro to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the remaining ingredients just before serving.

2. What if I don’t have Neufchatel cheese?

You can substitute regular cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

3. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes. Soak 1 ½ cups of dried white beans overnight, then cook them before adding to the chili.

4. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the cayenne pepper, add diced jalapeños, or top with hot sauce.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether.

6. Can I prepare this chili ahead of time?

Yes. The flavors improve over time, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

7. What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

Use two forks to shred rotisserie or cooked chicken. For faster results, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.

9. Will this recipe work with turkey instead of chicken?

Yes. Shredded turkey works well as a substitute, especially with leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

10. What type of beans can I use instead of cannellini beans?

You can use Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas as a substitute.

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Conclusion

This White Chicken Chili is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot recipe is a must-try. Customize it with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy a bowl of hearty, comforting chili.

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