Go Back
Best White Chicken Chili
Sofia

Best White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy soup made with shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and warm spices. It’s lighter than traditional chili but just as satisfying — and even better with your favorite toppings!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 4 oz can diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 2 15 oz cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Juice of ½ lime optional
Optional toppings:
  • Shredded cheese diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, jalapeños, cilantro, lime wedges

Method
 

Sauté Aromatics:
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.
Add Chilies & Spices:
  1. Stir in green chilies, cumin, oregano, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Chicken & Beans:
  1. Add shredded chicken, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in Creaminess:
  1. Turn heat to low. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until fully blended. Simmer for 5 more minutes (do not boil). Add lime juice if using.
Serve Hot:
  1. Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, avocado, chips, or your favorites.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
  • For thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding or simmer longer.
  • This recipe freezes well — just omit the dairy until reheating.
  • Want it spicy? Add a diced jalapeño with the onion or extra chili powder.