Quick and Creamy White Chicken Chili

What’s Up, Hungry People

It’s just starting to snow outside as I write this. I’m most certainly not ready for the snow this early, so to combat the cold, I’m cooking the one thing that’s name implies the opposite effect: chili. And not just any chili—white chicken chili.

My white chili is packed with everything from sweet corn to green chilies. It’s a sinus-clearing extravaganza that’s packed with protein, which means this chili might actually cure the common cold. You can substitute ground chicken for a roast chicken if you prefer a chunkier chili. The broth the chili cooks in is creamy and delicious, so no matter how you like your chicken, you are definitely in for a delicious dinner.

I topped my chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh jalapenos, and a fresh spritz of lime. Now that I have this recipe in my arsenal, I can conquer any cold winter night, no problem!

Here’s What You Need

• Ground chicken: Adds protein and forms the hearty base of the chili.
• Onion: Contributes a sweet depth and texture to the overall flavor profile.
• White & golden sweet corn: Provides sweetness and crunch, complementing the creamy texture.
• Green chiles: Offers a mild spicy kick, adding complexity to the chili.
• Poblano pepper: Enhances the chili with a mild, earthy flavor.
• Garlic: Elevates the dish with aromatic depth.
• White navy beans: Adds fiber and helps thicken the chili, making it more filling.
• Lime: Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity.
• Heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy texture.
• Gruyere cheese: Melts into the chili for a smooth, nutty flavor.
• Cream cheese: Increases creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and building flavor.
• Jalapeno: Adds a fresh, spicy element when used as a topping.
• Salt & pepper: Seasonings to enhance all flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal finish as a garnish.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream: Offers a cool, creamy contrast as a topping.

Let’s Cook

First things first, grab a large pot and get it on the stove over high heat. Pour in that tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up until it’s shimmering—this is your cue that it’s hot enough to start cooking. Toss in your chopped onions and give them a good stir. You’ll want to sauté these until they’re tender, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Adding the Flavors

Once your onions are looking good, it’s time to crank up the flavor. Add the sweet corn, green chiles, chopped poblano pepper, and minced garlic into the pot. Stir everything around until it’s well combined.

The Main Event

Now, add your ground chicken to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and let it cook until it starts to crumble and get some nice brown color to it. This is where things start to get really good. Next, stir in those white navy beans and pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything. Squeeze in the juice from half a lime and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it all a good stir, then let it simmer for about twenty minutes. The flavors will meld together beautifully.

Creamy Finishing Touches

After your chili has been simmering and all the flavors are getting along, reduce the heat to low. Now for the creamy goodness: add the heavy cream, Gruyere cheese, and cream cheese. Stir everything gently until the cheeses melt and mingle into the chili, transforming it into a creamy, dreamy pot of comfort.

Serve It Up

Once your chili is rich and creamy, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and top each with some fresh sliced jalapenos for that extra kick, a dollop of Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Don’t forget a final spritz of lime for a zesty finish. Grab some crusty bread and dig in—winter nights don’t stand a chance against this bowl of warmth!

Chicken Chili Mastery Tips

• Substitute roast chicken: For those who prefer a chunkier texture in their chili, roasted chicken is an excellent substitute for ground chicken. It not only adds texture but also a robust flavor that pairs well with the creamy elements of the dish.
• Manage the heat: If you’re sensitive to spicy foods, you can adjust the amount of green chiles and jalapeno. Removing the seeds from these peppers can significantly reduce their heat without sacrificing their vibrant flavors.
• Achieving the perfect consistency: If your chili is too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer without the lid, letting some of the liquid evaporate. For an even thicker consistency, mash a small portion of the beans before adding them to the pot.
• Enhance the creamy texture: For an ultra-creamy chili, you can add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese or use a full-fat Greek yogurt as a topping. This will enrich the texture and flavor, making each spoonful luxuriously smooth.
• Lime balance: Don’t forget to finish your bowl of chili with a spritz of fresh lime. This not only cuts through the richness but also enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

So, there you have it, Hungry People—a white chicken chili that’s perfect for those chilly nights when you just need a little comfort. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for company, ensuring that no matter who’s at your table, they’re in for a treat. This chili is your secret weapon against the winter blues, offering a warm embrace in every bite. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to tweak it to your taste, making it a personal favorite. Next time the snow starts to fall, you know exactly what to whip up to keep everyone cozy and content.

Simple & Nutritious Turkey Quinoa Chili

Cozy Apple Cider Chili Recipe

Hearty Turkey Chili with Butternut Squash (READER REQUEST!)