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Creamy White Chicken Chili

This white chicken chili combines tender shredded chicken, beans, and a rich, creamy broth seasoned with cumin and roasted garlic. It has a smooth, thick consistency with a comforting and subtly warming flavor profile, perfect for cozy meals and chilly days.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 350kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 4

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried white beans (or canned white beans, drained) if using dried, soak overnight
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded later
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves roasted for richer flavor
  • 1 tsp ground cumin adds warm spice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream for creaminess
  • 1 can white beans reserve liquid if canned
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Start by roasting the garlic cloves in a small pan over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
    4 cloves garlic cloves
  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 8-10 minutes. Remove, shred with two forks, and set aside.
    1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Add the roasted garlic and ground cumin to the pot; sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This brings out their aromas and flavors.
    4 cloves garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. If using dried beans, add them now; if using canned beans, add them later to prevent overcooking.
    1 lb dried white beans (or canned white beans, drained), 4 cups chicken broth
  • If using dried beans, let them cook for about 1 hour until tender. Otherwise, add the canned white beans now and stir to combine. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
    1 lb dried white beans (or canned white beans, drained)
  • Add the shredded chicken and white beans to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
    1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 can white beans
  • Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until the chili becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    1 cup sour cream, to taste salt and pepper
  • Allow the chili to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the texture thicken slightly.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cumin if desired.
    to taste salt and pepper
  • Serve the creamy white chicken chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if you like. Enjoy its comforting, smooth texture and subtle warmth.

Notes

For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding to the pot. To add a touch of heat, include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 700mg | Sugar: 4g | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg