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Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

A close-up of a bowl of creamy chicken chili recipe, topped with shredded white cheese and pulled chicken.

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Make this simple, comforting white chicken chili using shredded chicken, Great Northern beans, and a creamy base. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the rinsed Great Northern beans and the undrained diced green chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the shredded chicken. Reduce the heat to low.
  5. Add the cubed cream cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely into the broth, creating a creamy base.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let the chili simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to combine. Do not boil after adding dairy.
  7. Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
  8. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, mash about 1/2 cup of the beans against the side of the pot before adding the cream cheese.
  • If you prefer a slow cooker method, combine all ingredients except the heavy cream and shredded cheese in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for brightness.

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