White Chili Chicken Recipe
We must have a group of chili lovers who read Ambitious Kitchen because my 2022 turkey chili is still my most popular recipe. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the season to start your chili and squash cornbread game.
If you’ve already tried it, I highly recommend cooking this creamy, healthy white chicken chili recipe below because, darn right, it might just be my favorite.
I have some secret ingredients and tips for making it extra creamy without using dairy, and it’s truly a family favorite. It’s the perfect meal-prep dinner and is even freezer-friendly, so it’s a real winter staple.
Table of Contents
What Is White Chicken Chili?
Traditional chili recipes have a tomato base, beans such as kidney beans and/or black beans, and usually contain beef.
In contrast, white chili recipes are made with white beans or, in this case, chickpeas, typically chicken, and mild green chilies.
The base is usually broth instead of tomatoes and sometimes even includes cream or sour cream.
How to Make Chicken and White Bean Chili?
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chopped onions | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Minced garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| White rice | 1/3 cup |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) |
| Chopped green chilies | 1 can (4 oz) |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Daisy Light Cream | 1/3 cup |
| Beans, drained and rinsed | 1 can (16 oz) |
| Chickpeas, drained and rinsed | 1 can (16 oz) |
| Dried marjoram leaves | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried thyme leaves | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cooked chicken, cubed | 2 1/2 cups |
Instructions
- In a cast-iron pot, heat the oil.
- Add the onion and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin and garlic. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, for 1 minute or until fragrant.
- Add the remaining ingredients except for the chicken and cream.
- Over high heat, bring the chili to a boil, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Cover and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Add the chicken and stir. Heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Top each serving with 1 teaspoon of cream.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cilantro, if desired.
- Refrigerate any leftovers.
Video Guide 📺
Storage and Freezing Tips
To Store
This white chicken chili will keep well in your refrigerator for about 5 days. Once your chili is completely cool, simply place it in an airtight container, or several if you’re meal-prepping, without the additional ingredients and put it in the refrigerator.
To reheat:
- Microwave it in a microwave-safe container, or
- Reheat it on the stovetop.
Add your toppings once you’re ready to serve.
To Freeze
Yes, you can freeze this white chicken chili. Follow the instructions above, but instead of putting the chili in the refrigerator, simply place it in your freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat:
- Thaw the chili overnight
- Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat
Healthier Chili Recipes to Try
- Healthy Turkey Chili
- Actually the Best Vegetarian Chili Ever
- Slow Cooker Chicken Chili with Squash and Black Beans
- Slow Cooker Black Bean, Sweet Potato, and Quinoa Chili
- Salsa Verde Chicken Chickpea Chili
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Serving size | 1 serving (based on 4) |
| Calories | 1067 kcal |
| Fat | 17.8 g |
| Saturated fats | 3.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fiber | 8.4 g |
| Sugar | 8.8 g |
| Protein | 495.7 g |
FAQs
Can I make this white chicken chili ahead of time?
Yes. This recipe works well as a meal-prep dinner, and the chili keeps well in the refrigerator for about 5 days.
Can I freeze white chicken chili?
Yes. Once cooled, place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight before reheating.
What makes this chili creamy without dairy?
The creamy texture comes from chickpeas, especially when blended into a rich puree, which replaces cream or milk.
What toppings can I use?
You can top each serving with a teaspoon of cream, plus shredded cheese and cilantro if desired.
Is this recipe made with white beans?
Usually, white chicken chili is made with white beans, but this version uses chickpeas for flavor and texture.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this easy and healthy white chicken chili recipe. If you do, be sure to leave a comment and rating so I know how you liked it. Enjoy!
