Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy white chili offers the richness of traditional chili with a lighter twist. The creaminess from the broth and sour cream makes it incredibly satisfying, while the white beans provide texture and fiber. It’s a perfect blend of savory and creamy flavors, making it a great choice for family meals or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast, cubed
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (15-ounce) can white beans (such as cannellini or great northern)
1 (15-ounce) can chicken broth
1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the green chilies, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the beans, chicken broth, and half-and-half to the pot. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, then stir in the cooked chicken and sour cream.
Let simmer for another 5-10 minutes, then serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based version.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free sour cream as substitutes for the cream and sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding more broth or cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the chili.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute other white beans like navy beans or lima beans in place of cannellini beans.

How do I make the chili spicier?

Add more green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.

Can I freeze this white chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, this chili is gluten-free as long as you ensure that your broth and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe without sour cream?

Yes, you can omit the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cubed?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just be sure to cook it through before adding it to the chili.

What can I serve with this chili?

Serve it with cornbread, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy white chili is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and hearty white beans, it’s a filling option for any day of the week. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a bowl of warm goodness!