Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, this Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe is just what you need! This chili is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and the perfect blend of spices to create a deliciously satisfying experience.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or simply craving something comforting at home, this chili will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful chili without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and mild spice—perfect for all taste buds!
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a rich flavor profile that will satisfy any craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful chili. You might already have most of these items in your pantry!

For the Chili

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons chile powder, divided
• 3 tablespoons cumin, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided, plus more, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
• 3 cups chopped onion (2 medium)
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic (4-5 large cloves)
• 3 15-ounce cans white beans, drained
• 2 4-ounce cans chopped green chiles (hot or mild)
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 4-6 cups low-salt chicken broth
• 6 cups shredded cheese (half Monterey Jack, half cheddar), divided
• 2 cups sour cream, divided

For Garnish

• Chopped scallions
• Chopped cilantro leaves
• Your favorite hot sauce
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

A note on chili powder: One of my secrets to great chili is to use two or three different chili powders for a great depth of flavor. For this chili I used New Mexican and Chipotle chile powders.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or shredded beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or extra cayenne to kick things up a notch!
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for cheese and use coconut cream instead of sour cream for a creamy texture without dairy.

How to Make Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Spread the chicken breasts out in a roasting pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and just a pinch of cayenne. Roasting the chicken gives it wonderful flavor and keeps it juicy. After about 30 minutes in the oven, shred or cut into bite-sized pieces—this step makes it easy to mix into your chili later!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until tender—about five minutes should do it. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness. Once they’re ready, add in the beans, shredded chicken, chilies, oregano, remaining spices, and about 4 cups of chicken broth. Let everything simmer gently on low heat for about 20 minutes; this will meld all those delicious flavors together!

Step 3: Add Cheese and Sour Cream

Remove your pot from heat after simmering. Allow it to cool slightly—about five minutes—before adding in your cheese (3 cups at a time) and sour cream (1 cup). Stirring these in off heat ensures that everything melts beautifully without separating. If you want an extra creamy version like Dean makes it—go ahead and throw all six cups of cheese in there! Just bring your pot back to a gentle simmer over low heat after mixing.

Step 4: Serve with Your Favorite Garnishes

Finally! It’s time to serve up your delicious creation! Ladle the chili into bowls and let everyone choose their garnishes—scallions, cilantro leaves, hot sauce—the options are endless! Enjoy every warm bite with family or friends by your side.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe

Making this white chicken chili is not only rewarding but a fantastic way to impress your friends and family. Here are some pro tips to take your chili to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your chili, making it taste vibrant and lively.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Don’t be afraid to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences. Start with a little and build up if you like it spicier!

• Experiment with Beans: While white beans are traditional, feel free to mix in other types like kidney or pinto beans for added texture and flavor.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 30 minutes before serving can help meld the flavors together, making each bite more delicious.

• Make It Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving for a quick meal.

How to Serve Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your award-winning white chicken chili can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn a simple dish into a feast fit for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped Scallions: These add a fresh crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy chili.
• Chopped Cilantro Leaves: A sprinkle of cilantro not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
• Your Favorite Hot Sauce: A drizzle of hot sauce can kick up the heat and introduce an exciting new flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili. You can opt for sweet cornbread or savory variations.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer both texture and flavor when dipped into the creamy chili.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the chili while adding a refreshing touch.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a hearty meal that adds extra nutrients and makes it more filling.

With these serving suggestions, not only will your Award Winning White Chicken Chili shine on its own, but it will also create a delightful dining experience that everyone will remember! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftover chili to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container for expansion as it freezes.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this wonderful recipe!

Can I make this Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or using hotter green chiles. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences!

How should I serve this Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe?

Serve the chili hot in bowls, topped with garnishes like chopped scallions, cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips!

Can I use other beans in this white chicken chili?

Yes! If you prefer different beans, feel free to substitute with navy beans, great northern beans, or even chickpeas. Just be sure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the pot.

How long does this white chicken chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chili will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, I’m sure you’ll love every savory spoonful. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and modifications! Happy cooking!