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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, white beans, and a medley of green chiles and spices. This hearty yet light chili is a perfect comfort meal for any day of the week. Topped with your favorite garnishes, it’s a delicious twist on traditional chili that will leave everyone asking for more.
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Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 can 4 oz diced green chiles
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans 15 oz each white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup frozen or fresh corn optional
  • ½ cup heavy cream or substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • ¼ cup cream cheese softened (optional, for added creaminess)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the Aromatics:
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Cook the Chicken:
  • Place the chicken breasts in the pot. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices.
  • Simmer:
  • Add the green chiles, chicken broth, and white beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  • Shred the Chicken:
  • Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  • Add the Creaminess:
  • Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese (if using), and corn. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili is creamy and well combined.
  • Finish with Lime:
  • Stir in lime juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.