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Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese

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A quick and easy creamy white chicken chili with cream cheese that is perfect for cozy winter dinners. It features tender chicken, white beans, and a smooth, velvety broth with mild spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced mild green chiles
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Poach or roast about 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks. Alternatively, use about 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add spices: Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (if using). Toast spices for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Add liquids and beans: Pour in 3 cups chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the drained white beans and diced green chiles.
  5. Simmer: Bring mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broth reduces slightly and thickens.
  6. Add chicken and cream cheese: Stir in shredded chicken and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts fully and chili becomes creamy and smooth, about 3-5 minutes. Add a splash more broth or water if chili is too thick.
  7. Season and adjust: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add extra cayenne or hot sauce for more heat if desired.
  8. Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and top with desired garnishes such as fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar, sour cream, or avocado slices.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese to ensure smooth melting and avoid curdling by keeping heat low when adding cream cheese. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering longer. Leftovers thicken overnight; thin with broth when reheating. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or coconut cream. Full-fat cream cheese recommended for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, creamy chili, cream cheese chili, winter comfort food, easy chili recipe, white bean chili

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-white-chicken-chili-with-cream-cheese-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-winter/