I remember those weeknights when dinner felt like a Herculean task, especially after a long day. The thought of spending hours in the kitchen was just…exhausting! That’s when I discovered the magic of quick and easy recipes, and this Easy White Chicken Chili – Ready in 30! became an absolute lifesaver. It’s hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably simple to throw together. Today, I’m sharing my no-fail method so you can have a comforting and delicious meal on the table in a flash!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This White Chicken Chili
Let’s be honest, we all crave those comforting, home-cooked meals, but time is often a major constraint. This White Chicken Chili recipe tackles that problem head-on! It’s designed for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. Here’s why it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Ready in a flash: Seriously, 30 minutes is all you need.
- Minimal ingredients: No need for a mile-long grocery list. We’re using pantry staples and easily accessible ingredients.
- Customizable: Want more heat? Add some jalapeños! Love corn? Throw some in! It’s your chili, make it your own.
- Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this creamy, flavorful chili.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it all week long. It tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s a short and sweet list!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the veggies.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the chili.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic!
- 1 teaspoon cumin: For that warm, earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon oregano: Adds a touch of Mediterranean flair.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick! Omit if you prefer a milder chili.
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience or cook your own.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans great northern beans, rinsed and drained: These beans are creamy and delicious, adding great texture to the chili.
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: Adds another layer of creamy goodness and a slightly different texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the base of the chili and adds tons of flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is the secret ingredient that makes the chili incredibly creamy and rich!
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season!
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, green onions, tortilla chips, lime wedges. The possibilities are endless!
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!
Alright, are you ready to transform these simple ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious White Chicken Chili in no time!
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The onion should become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! The aroma should be intoxicating.
- Incorporate the chicken and beans: Add the shredded cooked chicken, great northern beans, and cannellini beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll notice the chili thickening slightly.
- Blend for creaminess (optional): For an even creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about 1-2 cups of the chili directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer a portion of the chili to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be very careful when blending hot liquids!
- Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream: Reduce the heat to low. Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and add it to the chili. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated. The chili will become wonderfully creamy and luscious. Then, stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth.
- Season to perfection: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. A pinch of extra cumin or cayenne can really elevate the flavor!
- Serve and enjoy! Ladle the White Chicken Chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, green onions, and tortilla chips are all fantastic options. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, zesty finish.
Success Tips: Your Secret Weapon for Perfect Chili
Want to ensure your White Chicken Chili is a resounding success? Here are a few golden tips that will guarantee delicious results every time!
- Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building a flavorful base. Don’t rush this step!
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The better the broth, the better the chili. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the chili. This will prevent it from clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture. You can microwave it for 30 seconds or let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.
- Adjust the spice level: The cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it or use a smaller amount. You can always add more later!
- Taste and adjust: The most important tip! Taste the chili throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings as needed. Every palate is different, so make it your own!
Variations and Add-ins: Make It Your Own!
One of the best things about this White Chicken Chili recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect bowl!
- Add vegetables: Corn, diced green chilies, bell peppers, and spinach are all great additions.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables.
- Use different beans: Navy beans, pinto beans, or black beans can be used in place of the great northern and cannellini beans.
- Add a smoky flavor: A teaspoon of smoked paprika can add a delicious smoky depth to the chili.
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal
This White Chicken Chili is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some complementary sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Cornbread: A classic pairing!
- Tortilla chips and salsa: For dipping and scooping.
- A side salad: A light and refreshing counterpoint to the rich chili.
- Grilled cheese sandwich: The ultimate comfort food combination.
- Avocado toast: A trendy and delicious option.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
This White Chicken Chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chili in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth to thin it out if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
Related Recipes To Enjoy
If you’re looking for more quick and easy chicken recipes, be sure to check out these favorites:
- For a vibrant and flavorful dish, try Spicy Ginger Chicken Delight. Its zesty ginger sauce is simply irresistible.
- If you’re craving something comforting and satisfying, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a must-try.
- The Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is another great option for a quick and healthy meal.
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious Easy White Chicken Chili – Ready in 30! that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting meal. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. Happy cooking!
How can I customize the White Chicken Chili to my liking?
The recipe is highly customizable! You can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting cayenne pepper, incorporate vegetables like corn or green chilies, use different types of beans, or add a smoky flavor with smoked paprika.
What is the secret ingredient to making this White Chicken Chili so creamy?
The secret ingredient is softened cream cheese! Adding it towards the end of the cooking process creates an incredibly creamy and rich texture.
Can I make this White Chicken Chili ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, this chili is perfect for making ahead! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
I don’t have great northern or cannellini beans. Can I use other types of beans instead?
Yes, you can substitute other beans like navy beans, pinto beans, or black beans for the great northern and cannellini beans.
30-Minute White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken, great northern beans, and cannellini beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- For an even creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about 1-2 cups of the chili directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer a portion of the chili to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
- Reduce the heat to low. Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and add it to the chili. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
- Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the White Chicken Chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.
