Creamy White Chicken Chili

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When you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and soul-soothing but still creamy and satisfying, Creamy White Chicken Chili checks every box. It wraps you up like your favorite blanket on a chilly night. Unlike traditional chili, this version is mellow in color but bold in flavor, combining tender shredded chicken, soft white beans, and just the right amount of heat with a luxurious, velvety finish.

It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chili reheats beautifully and gets even better the next day. It’s a bowl of comfort you’ll come back to all season long.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Chicken Chili

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. It’s not just filling, but it has layers of flavor from aromatics like garlic and onion, a hint of spice from green chilies, and a creamy finish thanks to cream cheese and heavy cream. It’s gluten-free, easily adaptable, and perfect for both casual dinners and gatherings.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or poach chicken breasts just for this dish. What matters most is that it’s tender and shreds easily. Chicken thighs add more richness, while breasts keep it leaner. Don’t be afraid to mix the two!

Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Chili

A good chili starts with ingredients that bring comfort and depth. This Creamy White Chicken Chili keeps things simple and flavorful. Each ingredient has its role to play in creating the ultimate bowl.

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cooked shredded chicken
• White beans (cannellini or great northern)
• Diced green chilies
• Chicken broth
• Ground cumin
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Cream cheese
• Heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

How To Make the Creamy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Seasoning

Add the shredded chicken to the pot along with the diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the chicken is well coated in the spices.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth and white beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the soup. Then pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the chili simmer for another 5 minutes until it’s thick and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the creamy chili into bowls. Add chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving. It’s also fantastic with crushed tortilla chips or shredded cheese on top.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy White Chicken Chili

This chili feeds about 6 people generously and makes a great meal on its own. To serve, ladle it hot into bowls with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or tortilla strips. For storing, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

Reheat gently over the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during storage.

What to Serve With Creamy White Chicken Chili?

Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up every last spoonful of that creamy broth.

Cornbread Muffins

Adds a sweet, hearty contrast and pairs wonderfully with the chili’s spice.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Bright and zesty, this rice complements the chili without overpowering it.

Guacamole and Chips

Cool, creamy guacamole helps balance out the warmth and spice.

Roasted Vegetables

Something simple like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts adds a colorful, healthy side.

Pickled Jalapeños

A tangy, spicy garnish that can punch up each bite if you like heat.

Southwest Salad

A crisp salad with black beans, corn, and avocado is a refreshing match.

Want More Chicken Soup Ideas?

If this Creamy White Chicken Chili has you hooked, you’ll love these other comforting, flavor-packed meals:

• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono is tangy, rich, and nourishing.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup is just as cozy but with a hearty sausage twist.
• Low Carb Chicken Casserole is a creamy bake perfect for busy nights.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you crave creamy pasta over chili.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup or dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go for extra spice or keep it kid-friendly? Add your twist and help others customize their perfect bowl.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and soups on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy creation.

Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Chili is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring. With its rich texture, balanced flavors, and cozy warmth, it easily earns a spot in your go-to meal rotation. Whether you’re hosting or hunkering down, this is a meal that brings people together, one creamy spoonful at a time.

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