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White Chicken Chili

A warm, creamy, and family-friendly white chicken chili that's perfect for busy weeknights, combining savory flavors with tender chicken and beans.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cooking Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use a good quality olive oil for flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Yellow onion gives sweetness when cooked.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic beats jarred in flavor.
Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed Cannellini or great northern beans both work.
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies Mild chilies are family-friendly.
  • 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium broth for better control.
Spices
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Toast briefly for extra aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to your taste.
  • to taste salt Add less at first and adjust after simmering.
  • to taste pepper Adjust seasoning after simmering.
Finishing Touch
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half Heavy cream makes it rich and velvety.
  • 1 bunch chopped cilantro for garnish Add at the end for brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Notes

Serve this chili family-style with small bowls of toppings for customization. It stores well and can be made ahead without cream.