Delicious White Chicken Chili

A creamy blend of beans, corn, and spices turns basic ingredients into true comfort.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 17, 2025

A creamy blend of beans, corn, and spices turns basic ingredients into true comfort.

Introduction to White Chicken Chili

White chicken chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili, combining the best elements of classic chili recipes with the simplicity and flavor of chicken tortilla soup. This dish is perfect for those looking for a quick, yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour. The beauty of white chicken chili lies in its ability to blend the richness of chicken, beans, and corn with the warmth of spices, all in a creamy broth.

What is White Chicken Chili?

White chicken chili typically begins with a mix of tried-and-true chili ingredients: onions, peppers, garlic, and jalapeño. It also includes white beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern beans, corn, cooked chicken—often from a rotisserie chicken—and a blend of spices. The dish is then finished with a creamy element, such as heavy cream, and fresh touches like lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili

Here are the essential ingredients needed for this recipe:

2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
1 Onion, Chopped
2 Poblano Peppers, Chopped
1 Tsp. Kosher Salt (divided)
3 Cloves Garlic, Chopped
1 Jalapeño, Chopped (seeds removed if desired)
1 Tbsp. Ground Cumin
1 Tsp. Ground Coriander
1 Tsp. Chili Powder
1/2 Tsp. Black Pepper
2 Tsp. Dried Oregano
4 Cups Chicken Broth (divided)
3 Tbsp. Cornmeal or Masa Harina
2 (15-oz.) Cans White Beans (drained and rinsed)
1 (4-oz.) Can Chopped Green Chilis
1 Cup Frozen Corn
3 Cups Cooked Chicken
1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
2 Tbsp. Fresh Lime Juice
2 Tbsp. Chopped Cilantro Leaves
Tortilla Chips, Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese, and Sour Cream (for serving)

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and poblano peppers until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt during this step.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño to the pot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This step adds depth and a bit of heat to the dish.

Step 3: Incorporate Spices and Broth

Now, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, black pepper, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir well to combine all the spices and let them infuse into the dish for a few minutes. Then, pour in part of the chicken broth to create a rich base for the chili.

Step 4: Add Beans, Corn, and Chicken

Introduce the white beans, chopped green chiles, frozen corn, and cooked chicken to the pot. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are distributed evenly throughout the chili.

Step 5: Thicken and Finish

In a small bowl, mix the cornmeal or masa harina with remaining chicken broth until smooth. Add this mixture to the chili and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken. Finally, stir in the heavy cream to give the chili a creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

Customizing the Spice Level of White Chicken Chili

The spice level of white chicken chili can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes. If you prefer a milder version:

Remove Seeds from Jalapeños: Seeds are where the heat is concentrated, so removing them can reduce the chili’s spiciness.
Reduce or Omit Jalapeños: If you prefer very little heat, consider using only half of the jalapeño or omitting it altogether.

Benefits of Using a One-Pot Recipe

One-pot recipes, like this white chicken chili, offer several advantages:

Convenience: It simplifies cleanup and preparation time, as all ingredients are cooked in one vessel.
Flavor Development: The continuous simmering of ingredients allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Time-Saving: Everything is prepared and cooked in about an hour, making it perfect for busy days.

Using White Chicken Chili in Various Occasions

White chicken chili is versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings:

Game Day Food: It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with tortilla chips and other snacks.
Sunday Dinner: A hearty, comforting meal for family gatherings.
Weeknight Meal: Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What type of beans are best for white chicken chili?

A: White beans such as cannellini or Great Northern beans are ideal for white chicken chili due to their mild flavor and smooth texture.

Q: How can I make white chicken chili in a slow cooker?

A: Simply place all the ingredients except the heavy cream in a slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-7 hours. Add the heavy cream just before serving to maintain its creaminess.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, leftover chicken can be used, but ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before adding it to the chili.

Q: How do I store leftover white chicken chili?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete