Warm up with this easy white chicken chili recipe, a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for cold-weather nights. Packed with tender chicken, white beans, corn, green chiles, and a rich blend of spices, this chili comes together in under an hour with minimal prep. It’s gluten-free, high in protein, and ideal for make-ahead meals or freezing. Whether you use a stovetop or a crockpot, this recipe is a family favorite you’ll want to keep on rotation all winter long.
White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1 jalapeno seeded and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves sliced
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water
- 3 15-ounce cans white beans, rinsed and drained (divided)
- 1 8-ounce container sour cream
- 2 4-ounce cans diced green chiles
- 1½ cups frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
Toppings:
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese diced avocados, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, jalapenos, and garlic. Cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Cook the Chicken: Add chicken thighs, salt, pepper, and water. Simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is tender. Remove chicken and shred it.
- Blend the Beans: Add half the white beans and sour cream to the pot. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Simmer: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add remaining white beans, green chiles, corn, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, avocado, and cilantro.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for 3 months.
- Substitutions: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred.
- Equipment: A regular blender works if you don’t have an immersion blender.
How to Serve
- Toppings:
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Diced avocado
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Tortilla chips or crispy onions
- Side Dishes:
- Skillet Cornbread
- Garlic Dinner Rolls
- Mexican Street Corn Salad
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
- Rich in Protein: Chicken and beans make it hearty and filling.
- Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep and easy to freeze.
- Customizable: Add toppings or adjust spice levels to your taste.
Tips & Variations for the White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Make it Spicier: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use a Crockpot: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-4 hours.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for more nutrition.
- Thicken Faster: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the chili.
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
If you enjoyed this Easy White Chicken Chili, you’ll love these other simple and tasty Mexican-inspired dishes! They’re perfect for mixing up your meals and adding a bit of fun to your week:
Mexican Lasagna with Tortillas
This dish is like lasagna but with tortillas instead of pasta! Layers of beef, refried beans, and melted cheese make it a filling and comforting meal everyone will love.
Grilled Fish Taco Recipe
These fish tacos are light and full of flavor! Juicy grilled fish, a creamy yogurt slaw, and warm tortillas make them a fresh and easy dinner idea.
Baked Chicken Tacos
Crispy taco shells, shredded chicken, and gooey cheese—what’s not to love? These baked tacos are ready in no time and perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Try these recipes and make every meal exciting and delicious!
Did you make this recipe?
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