White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a rich, comforting dish packed with tender shredded chicken, warm spices, and Neufchatel cheese for a velvety texture. It’s an easy one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or meal prep. The mild heat from green chilies and the warmth of cumin and paprika add depth without overpowering the dish.

This chili is incredibly versatile—enjoy it as-is or customize it with toppings like Monterey Jack cheese, avocado, or crispy tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• Creamy & Flavorful – Neufchatel cheese adds a smooth, rich consistency.
• Protein-Packed – Chicken and beans provide a satisfying meal.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and toppings to your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching the pot.
• Cutting board & sharp knife – For dicing onions and chopping fresh herbs.
• Ladle – Makes serving easier and mess-free.
• Blender or immersion blender (optional) – To puree some beans for a thicker texture.

Preparation Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
• Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
• Mash or puree some beans to create a thicker, creamier consistency.
• Pre-measure ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
• Let flavors meld by allowing the chili to simmer for at least 15 minutes.

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Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Broth & Seasoning:

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth
• 1 can (7 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Creamy & Hearty Additions:

• 1 package (8 oz) Neufchatel cheese, cubed
• 1 ¼ cups corn
• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

Protein & Fresh Flavors:

• 2 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Toppings:

• Tortilla chips
• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• Avocado slices

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add diced onions and sauté for 4 minutes, until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

2. Simmer the Broth & Spices

• Pour in chicken broth and diced green chilies.
• Add cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper, stirring to combine.
• Bring to a simmer and let cook uncovered for 15 minutes to develop the flavors.

3. Add Creamy & Hearty Ingredients

• If a thicker consistency is preferred, blend one can of beans until smooth before adding.
• Stir in Neufchatel cheese, corn, and both cans of beans.
• Simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.

4. Add Chicken & Fresh Ingredients

• Stir in shredded chicken, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Ladle chili into serving bowls.
• Top with Monterey Jack cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this White Chicken Chili with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are eight great options:

1. Cornbread

The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory chili. Serve it on the side or crumble it into the bowl for added texture.

2. Garlic Bread

A crispy slice of garlic bread is ideal for scooping up every last bit of chili. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the richness of the dish.

3. Side Salad

A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chili.

4. Rice

Serving white or brown rice alongside the chili makes for a heartier meal. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth, making each bite more satisfying.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, lightly charred, add a smoky, slightly sweet contrast to the chili.

6. Tortilla Chips & Salsa

A simple side of crispy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole adds crunch and extra flavor. Use the chips for dipping or crumbling over the chili.

7. Sautéed Greens

A side of sautéed spinach or kale with a touch of garlic and olive oil adds a nutrient-dense, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy chili.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the slight heat of the chili, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Since the recipe calls for rotisserie chicken, it only needs to be heated through. Overcooking can dry it out. Add it toward the end of cooking for the best texture.

2. Skipping the Lime Juice

Lime juice brightens the flavors and enhances the spices. Without it, the chili may taste flat. Always add it at the end for maximum impact.

3. Adding the Cheese Too Early

Neufchatel cheese should be added once the broth has simmered to avoid curdling. Stir gently to ensure it melts evenly into the chili.

4. Not Adjusting the Spice Level

The heat in this chili is mild, but everyone has different spice preferences. Adjust cayenne pepper or green chilies to match your taste.

5. Not Mashing or Blending Some Beans

For a thicker chili, blend or mash one can of beans before adding. This creates a creamy base without needing additional dairy.

6. Overloading with Toppings

While toppings enhance the dish, too many can overpower the chili itself. Choose one or two complementary toppings for the best balance.

7. Rushing the Simmering Process

Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 15 minutes helps develop the flavors. Rushing this step may result in a less flavorful dish.

8. Forgetting to Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Seasoning should be adjusted at the end to ensure balanced flavors. Taste before serving and add salt, lime juice, or spices as needed.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor. Fresh lime juice and cilantro enhance the overall taste.
• For a thicker consistency, blend or mash one can of beans before adding it to the pot. This creates a naturally creamy texture without extra dairy.
• If you prefer a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne.
• For extra protein, add an additional can of beans or stir in cooked quinoa.
• Make it dairy-free by replacing Neufchatel cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
• For a richer texture, stir in a small amount of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Store cooled chili in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili has thickened, add a small amount of chicken broth.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients except the cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Stir in the cheese at the end until melted.

What can I substitute for Neufchatel cheese?

You can use regular cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Is White Chicken Chili spicy?

This recipe has mild heat from the green chilies and cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne or omitting the chilies.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes. Soak and cook dried cannellini beans until soft before adding them to the chili. This will take longer but allows for better control of texture and sodium content.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Replace Neufchatel cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it entirely. Blending some beans will still create a creamy texture.

What is the best way to thicken White Chicken Chili?

Blending or mashing one can of beans helps thicken the chili naturally. You can also let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. White Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes. If using raw chicken, add it to the broth in step two and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, then shred and return it to the pot.

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Conclusion

This White Chicken Chili is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs. Serve it with your favorite toppings, pair it with a side dish, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade chili.