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Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese

creamy white chicken chili - featured image
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A rich and comforting white chicken chili made creamy with cream cheese, featuring tender shredded chicken, white beans, and subtle green chilies. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia brand recommended)
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, mild or medium heat
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional but recommended)
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using raw chicken, cook it by boiling or baking until fully cooked, then shred with two forks. Drain and rinse the white beans and diced green chilies.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and toast the spices slightly to release their aroma.
  4. Add the drained beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Let the chili simmer uncovered on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Stir in the shredded chicken. Add the softened cream cheese in chunks and stir gently until it melts completely into the chili, creating a creamy texture. Add more broth or water if the chili is too thick.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado.

Notes

Softening cream cheese to room temperature before adding prevents lumps. Use warm chicken for easier shredding. Toast spices lightly in oil to enhance flavor. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering longer. Adding lime juice at the end brightens the flavors. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth to loosen texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, creamy chili, cream cheese chili, easy chicken chili, cozy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creamy-white-chicken-chili-with-cream-cheese-easy-recipe-for-cozy-dinners/