White Chicken Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

4. Step-by-Step Recipe for White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans white beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can corn (drained)
• 1 can green chilies (mild or spicy, depending on your taste)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 4 oz cream cheese (or ½ cup heavy cream)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Add Spices: Stir in cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne (if using). Let the spices bloom for about a minute, enhancing their flavor.
4. Build the Base: Add the chicken broth, beans, corn, and green chilies to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Combine Chicken and Simmer: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
6. Creamy Finish: Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream until fully melted and incorporated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

5. Choosing the Right Chicken

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chicken. For tender, juicy results, opt for chicken breasts or thighs. If you want an even richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken and remove the bones after cooking.

6. Beans in White Chicken Chili

White beans are essential to the dish, adding a soft texture and mild flavor. Cannellini or Great Northern beans are ideal, as they hold up well during cooking without becoming mushy.

7. Spice Level Adjustments

Green chilies provide a gentle heat that enhances the dish without overpowering it. For those who prefer a spicier kick, you can add jalapeños or serrano peppers.

FAQs About White Chicken Chili

1. Can I make White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, except the cream cheese or heavy cream, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream at the end.
2. Can I freeze White Chicken Chili? Absolutely! White Chicken Chili freezes well. Just allow it to cool, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What can I serve with White Chicken Chili? This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice.
4. How do I thicken White Chicken Chili? If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot. You can also add a cornstarch slurry.
5. Can I make this chili dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
6. How long does White Chicken Chili last in the fridge? It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.