Go Back
–+ servings

Creamy White Chicken Chili

This soul-warming bowl of comfort is ready in just 45 minutes! My recipe guarantees tender chicken and a silky, flavor-packed broth every time.
No ratings yet
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Two forks for shredding

Ingredients

For the Chili:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 poblano peppers diced
  • 1 jalapeño finely chopped (seeds optional)
  • 2½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1¼ pounds chicken breasts
  • 4½ cups chicken broth plus more if needed
  • 6 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained
  • ⅔ cup green salsa
  • 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • ⅔ cup fresh cilantro chopped

For Serving:

  • Diced avocado
  • Extra cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh lime
  • Cilantro leaves
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

Stovetop Method:

    Get Those Flavors Started:

    • Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
    • Toss in diced onion and cook until soft and golden (6-7 minutes)

    Chef's Secret: Let those onions get a bit golden - it adds amazing depth!

      Create Your Flavor Base:

      • Add garlic and peppers, cook 2-3 minutes until fragrant
      • Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, and chili powder
      • Season with a good pinch of salt and pepper
      • Let everything mingle for 3-4 minutes until the kitchen smells amazing

      Pro Tip: This step builds our foundation of flavors!

        Time for Chicken:

        • Nestle chicken breasts into the pot
        • Pour in 4 cups of broth
        • Bring to a gentle simmer
        • Cover partially and cook 22-25 minutes until chicken is tender

        Kitchen Tip: Don't rush this part - gentle cooking keeps the chicken juicy!

          The Creamy Magic:

          • Remove chicken to a plate
          • Soften cream cheese in microwave for 20 seconds
          • Shred chicken using two forks
          • Whisk cream cheese into the broth until completely smooth
          • Return shredded chicken to pot
          • Add beans, green salsa, and cheese

          Pro Tip: Room temp cream cheese blends much easier!

            Final Touches:

            • Simmer 8-10 minutes until everything's hot and bubbly
            • Stir in fresh cilantro
            • Taste and adjust seasonings
            • Add extra broth if you'd like it thinner

            Slow Cooker Method:

              Morning Prep:

              • Place onion, garlic, peppers in slow cooker
              • Add all spices and chicken
              • Pour in 4 cups broth and softened cream cheese
              • Season well

              Low & Slow:

              • Cook on low 7-8 hours or high 5-6 hours
              • Remove and shred chicken
              • Stir in beans, salsa, cheese, and cilantro
              • Let it warm through about 10 minutes

              Success Tips:

              • Cut chicken breasts in half if they're very thick
              • Don't skip softening the cream cheese
              • Keep extra broth handy for reheating
              • Taste and season at the end - flavors develop as it cooks

              Make it Your Way:

                Extra Spicy: Keep those jalapeño seeds and add a pinch of cayenne

                  Milder Version: Skip jalapeño, use just one poblano

                    Richer: Add an extra handful of cheese at the end

                      Lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese

                        Storage & Reheating:

                        • Keeps in fridge up to 5 days
                        • Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
                        • Reheat slowly on stovetop, adding broth to reach desired consistency

                        The Perfect Bowl:

                          Layer your bowl like this for the ultimate experience:

                          • Steaming hot chili base
                          • Big handful of shredded cheese
                          • Fresh avocado chunks
                          • Dollop of sour cream or yogurt
                          • Sprinkle of cilantro and green onions
                          • Fresh squeeze of lime