Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight is a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. This rich chili features tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and a hint of spice, making it a satisfying meal that warms both heart and soul. With the addition of cream cheese, the chili takes on a delightful richness that you’ll want to savor in every spoonful.
Why Make This Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
If you’re looking for a quick yet hearty meal, this Creamy White Chicken Chili is the answer! It’s incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy texture makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or game day parties. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a stress-free option for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home.
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
Making this delicious chili is a breeze! Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil, which releases a fantastic aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. Then, the spices join the mix, creating a flavorful base. By incorporating shredded chicken and various beans, you add protein and texture. The final touch involves cream cheese, which imparts a creamy, velvety consistency to the chili. The result is a comforting bowl full of flavor that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 30 ounces white beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups corn (frozen or canned)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the aromatics and let it cook for a minute to enhance those delightful spices.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, black beans, corn, and green chiles. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and stir it in until fully melted. If you choose to use sour cream for extra creaminess, add it now and stir until combined.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and adjust the seasoning as needed to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and shredded cheese if desired.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 23g
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
This Creamy White Chicken Chili is versatile enough to serve on its own, topped with a sprinkle of cilantro and some sliced avocado for freshness. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad. It’s also perfect for potlucks or as a comforting dish during game night, where it will be a sure hit amongst friends and family.
How to Store Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day! To freeze, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove while adding a little extra broth to bring back the creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
- Cook your chicken in advance: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken in the fridge, this dish comes together even quicker.
- Adjust the spices: For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste.
- Experiment with beans: Feel free to swap in your favorite beans or even lentils for a different spin on this recipe.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for extra beans or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy diced green chiles to elevate the heat.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Stir in some diced tomatoes or corn salsa for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the chili.What can I substitute for cream cheese?
For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to maintain the creamy texture.How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that the chicken broth you use is labeled gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight is the perfect dish to warm you up any day of the week. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and is sure to please a crowd. We encourage you to try it yourself and experience its comforting goodness. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments. Happy cooking!
Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the aromatics and let it cook for a minute to enhance those delightful spices.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, black beans, corn, and green chiles. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and stir it in until fully melted. If you choose to use sour cream for extra creaminess, add it now and stir until combined.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and adjust the seasoning as needed to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and shredded cheese if desired.