Creamy White Chili
A comforting and creamy white chili with tender chicken, beans, and a blend of spices. This hearty dish offers a mild heat with rich, tangy sour cream, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Its smooth texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy a flavorful, creamy soup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 2 small peppers, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cans Great Northern beans, drained ⓘ
- 1 can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper ⓘ
- 1 cup sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, sauté chicken, onion, peppers, and garlic powder in oil until chicken is no longer pink.
- Add beans, broth, and seasonings to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with heavy cream. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with cubed tofu and use vegetable broth. Fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the dish, and adding a squeeze of lime can enhance the flavors. If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy white chili pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. Top each serving with chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a comforting weeknight dinner, consider serving it with a side of easy Chicken Hawaiian for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid boiling, as this may cause the sour cream to curdle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy White Chili contains roughly 850 calories, with 34g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (308% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (252% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2009mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze creamy white chili?
Yes, you can freeze creamy white chili! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
What can I use instead of Great Northern beans?
If you don't have Great Northern beans, you can substitute them with white kidney beans or cannellini beans. Both options will provide a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a great alternative in this creamy dish. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the chili.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat to your creamy white chili, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your preference, tasting as you go to achieve the desired heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).