Welcome to a delicious and heartwarming fall classic: Creamy White Chicken Chili! This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a clever shortcut using rotisserie chicken to save time in the kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe simple and rewarding. So, let’s get started on making this delectable soup that embodies the essence of fall!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Olive oil: 1-2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Rotisserie chicken: 2 cups, shredded (or cooked chicken of your choice)
• White beans: 2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
• Chicken broth: 1 can (15 oz) or about 2 cups
• Diced green chilies: 1 can (4 oz), undrained
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
• Cayenne pepper: pinch (optional, for added flavor)
• Whipping cream: ½ cup (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Sour cream: 1 cup (light or regular)

Optional Toppings

• Fresh cilantro
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Avocado slices
• Tortilla chips
• Lime wedges

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large stockpot, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Onions: Add the chopped onion and sauté until they become translucent and tender, approximately 3-5 minutes. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as they cook.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Add Chicken: Next, shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the pot. This pre-cooked chicken not only saves time but also adds wonderful flavor.
2. Add Beans and Broth: Add the drained and rinsed white beans and the can of chicken broth. For those watching their sodium, opt for a low-sodium broth.
3. Stir in Green Chilies: Add the can of diced green chilies directly into the pot without draining.
4. Mix Together: Stir everything together until well combined. The green chilies will add a subtle flavor without overwhelming heat, making this dish family-friendly.

Step 3: Season the Chili

1. Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, oregano, and black pepper. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir to incorporate all the spices evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

1. Bring to Simmer: Let the chili simmer on medium heat for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add the Creaminess

1. Incorporate Cream and Sour Cream: After the chili has simmered, it’s time to add the creaminess. Pour in the ½ cup of whipping cream and 1 cup of sour cream. Stir thoroughly until fully combined, creating a smooth and rich texture.
2. Heat Through: Allow the chili to warm through on low heat for another 5 minutes, but avoid boiling to maintain the creaminess.

Step 6: Serve

1. Dish It Out: Serve the creamy white chicken chili immediately. Ladle it into bowls and top with your choice of optional toppings, such as fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Sodium: 700 mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium ingredients)
• Total Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8 g
  • Sugars: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Vitamin A: 10% DV
• Vitamin C: 4% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and measurements used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes! If you prefer using raw chicken, you can add it in step 1 with the onions. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. You may need to extend the simmering time until the chicken is cooked through.

Q2: How spicy is this chili?

This chili is designed to be mild and kid-friendly. The green chilies add flavor without significant heat. If you enjoy spicier dishes, consider adding more cayenne pepper or using hot green chilies.

Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream and whipping cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, to achieve a similar creamy texture.

Q4: How can I make this a one-pot meal?

This recipe is already quite simple, but if you want to make it even easier, consider adding some cooked rice or quinoa into the chili during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a heartier meal.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy White Chicken Chili

1. Prep Ahead: Chop the onions and shred the chicken ahead of time to make the cooking process quicker.
2. Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans such as cannellini or navy beans for varied texture and flavor.
3. Serve with Sides: This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the chili is too thick for your liking, simply add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Freezing: This chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer.

Conclusion

Kicking off soup season with Creamy White Chicken Chili is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With the help of rotisserie chicken and simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious pot of chili in no time.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting bowl of soup to warm your soul, this creamy white chicken chili is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try different toppings to make each serving unique and exciting! Enjoy this lovely recipe from our kitchen to yours, and happy cooking!