Quick Comfort Food Chili
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Quick Comfort Food Chili
This easy White Chicken Chili is the ultimate solution for those chaotic weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table fast. With just a handful of ingredients and one pot, you can have a creamy, hearty dinner that the whole family will love. I promise, this recipe is a game-changer for busy parents.
Dinner Chaos Solved
- One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup means more time for your family after dinner.
- Kid-Approved Flavor – This creamy white chili is mild yet satisfying, a true crowd-pleaser.
- Pantry Staples – You likely have most of these ingredients already, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Quick Comfort Food – Get that cozy, hearty meal feeling in under an hour.
What You’ll Need for Your White Chicken Chili
For the Chili Base
- Chicken breasts – The tender protein base that makes this chili so satisfying.
- Olive oil – For sautéing and building flavor from the very first step.
- Yellow onion & garlic cloves – The sweet and savory foundation of any great chicken chili recipe.
For the Flavor & Creaminess
- Diced green chilies, spices – These give that authentic, mild heat and depth.
- Chicken broth – The liquid base that brings everything together.
- White beans & frozen corn – For that classic, hearty white bean chili texture.
- Heavy cream – The secret to a luxuriously creamy white chili.
- Cilantro & lime – The fresh, bright finish that makes everything pop.
Ready in Under an Hour, I Promise
Let’s talk timing, because I know that’s what matters most on a busy night. This White Chicken Chili is designed for speed. The prep time is a quick 15 minutes, and the cook time is just 35 minutes.
That means you can have a total comfort food dinner on the table in 50 minutes flat. The hands-on time is minimal, which is perfect for multitasking parents. While the chili simmers, you can help with homework or set the table.
Compared to traditional chilis that simmer for hours, this easy chicken dinner is a lifesaver. For another quick option, check out my sheet pan chicken that’s equally fast.
Making This Recipe Work for You
I always believe a great recipe should be adaptable. If you’re sugar-conscious or managing dietary needs, here are some simple tweaks. This White Chicken Chili is naturally quite friendly, but you can make it even better.
For a lower glycemic impact, you can easily reduce or omit the corn. You could also use a sugar-free chicken broth to control any hidden ingredients. Portion control is another great tool for enjoying this hearty meal while being mindful.
My Best Tips for Perfect White Chicken Chili
After making this chicken chili recipe dozens of times for my own family, I’ve learned a few secrets. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and get the best flavor every single time.
Boost the Flavor: Don’t skip toasting the spices! That one minute of cooking the cumin and chili powder unlocks their full potential. It makes a huge difference in the final dish.
Texture Tweaks: For a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them. This creates a creamier base without needing extra cream. My chicken pot pie soup uses a similar trick for richness.
Diet-Friendly Swap: If you’re watching fat content, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The result is still a deliciously creamy white chili.
Make-Ahead Magic: This chili tastes even better the next day. Let it cool completely before storing, and the flavors have time to meld beautifully. Reheat gently on the stove.
White Chicken Chili
Creamy white chicken chili with tender chicken cubes, white beans, and corn in a flavorful broth. Ready in 50 minutes for an easy, comforting dinner the whole family will love.
Equipment
- large pot or Dutch oven
- knife
- cutting board
- measuring spoons
- measuring cups
Ingredients
Chili Base
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans diced green chilies 4-ounce cans
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Broth and Beans
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cans white beans 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Finish and Garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, optional for garnish
- 1 lime cut into wedges, optional for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot, along with the white beans and corn. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chili is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
Notes
Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
More Than Just a Comforting Meal
This White Chicken Chili isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. It’s a balanced meal that will keep everyone satisfied. Let’s break down what makes it a smart choice.
Chicken breast provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and keeping you full. The white beans are a fantastic source of fiber and plant-based protein. This combination makes for a truly hearty white bean chili.
This dish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices. For another nutrient-packed option, my ginger chicken soup is great for wellness. You can learn more about the benefits of a balanced diet from resources like the MyPlate guidelines.
Easy Swaps for a Lighter Dish
Want to lighten things up a bit? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can make a few simple swaps without sacrificing the cozy, comforting vibe we all love.
For a leaner version, use chicken breast and low-fat Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also load up on extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Another great lean chicken dish is this chicken shawarma.
The Perfect Way to Serve Your Chili
I love serving this White Chicken Chili on a chilly evening when everyone needs a warm hug in a bowl. The presentation is part of the fun! I always set up a little “toppings bar” so everyone can customize their bowl.
Try serving it with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. The contrast in textures is wonderful. For a heartier meal, pair it with chicken fajitas for a full Mexican-inspired feast.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
I’ve made my share of mistakes in the kitchen, so you don’t have to! Here are the most common issues people run into with this chicken chili recipe and how to fix them.
Why is my chili too thin? If you prefer a thicker consistency, make a quick slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch and a little cold water. Stir it in during the last five minutes of cooking.
How to prevent dry chicken? Be careful not to overcook the chicken when browning it. It will continue to cook as it simmers in the broth. For another recipe that nails chicken texture, try this crispy garlic chicken.
Why is my chili bland? Season in layers! Don’t wait until the end to add salt and pepper. Taste as you go, especially after adding the broth. For more flavor-building tips, check out this guide from Bon Appétit.
I remember one time I rushed the onion and garlic, and the flavor was just not the same. Taking that extra minute to let them soften properly makes all the difference.
Keeping Your Chili for Later
This White Chicken Chili stores beautifully, which is a huge win for meal prep. I often double the recipe so we have leftovers for lunch. Let me share my best storage tips.
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. For another great freezer-friendly meal, my chicken pot pie is a classic.
Your New Go-To Weeknight Recipe
I truly hope this White Chicken Chili becomes a staple in your home like it is in mine. It’s the recipe I turn to when I need something reliable, comforting, and fast. The combination of tender chicken, creamy beans, and warm spices is just unbeatable.
This is the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights feel a little less hectic. For more easy dinner inspiration, you have to try my chicken lo mein or this incredibly flavorful marry me chicken. This delicious White Chicken Chili is waiting to solve your dinner dilemma tonight.
More Cozy Chicken Dinners You’ll Adore
If you loved this simple, comforting chili, you’re going to want to add these other family-friendly recipes to your rotation. They’re all designed with the busy cook in mind.
Hearty Chicken Stew – The ultimate stick-to-your-ribs meal for a cold night.
Sweet and Spicy Thai Chicken – A flavor explosion that’s faster than takeout.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken – All the dip flavors you love in a main dish.
Classic Chicken Divan – A retro casserole that deserves a comeback.
Easy Chicken Parmesan – A crispy, cheesy crowd-pleaser everyone loves.
Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup – The coziest bowl of soup you’ll ever taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is white chicken chili made of?
White chicken chili is typically made with chicken, white beans, green chiles, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin. It uses a chicken broth base instead of tomatoes, and often includes cream or cheese for richness. This creates a lighter color compared to traditional red chili.
What is the difference between white chili and regular chili?
The main difference is that white chili omits tomatoes and red chili powder, using green chiles and chicken instead of beef. It has a lighter, creamier broth and a different flavor profile. Regular chili is typically tomato-based and uses ground beef or pork.
How can I thicken my white chicken chili?
You can thicken white chicken chili by mashing some of the beans before adding them, or by making a cornstarch slurry. Letting it simmer uncovered for longer will also reduce the liquid. Another option is to add a bit of instant mashed potato flakes.
Can I make white chicken chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the onions first for best flavor, then add everything except the cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
