Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) is just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my home for years, especially on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but effortless. It’s perfect for family gatherings, too; everyone seems to love its creamy texture and delightful flavors. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free choice for dinner!

What makes this chili really special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in under 40 minutes using the stovetop or let it simmer all day in the crockpot while you go about your day. No matter how you make it, you’ll end up with a bowl full of cozy goodness that warms both body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in less than 40 minutes or can be set and forgotten in the crockpot.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavor and creamy texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken and beans, this dish is high in protein and fiber.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep! Just store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for an easy lunch later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is one of the best parts of cooking this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe. You likely have most of these items on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne

For the Chili

• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2lbs chicken breasts, raw (~3 large breasts)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 (4oz) cans green chiles
• 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 can corn, drained and rinsed

For Topping

• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (I used 2%)
• Cilantro
• Cheddar cheese
• Jalapeno
• Lime slices
• Tortilla chips

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe is how flexible it can be. Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available!

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even a plant-based alternative like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for an extra dose of nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne or diced jalapenos directly into the chili.
• Creamier consistency: For an even richer texture, stir in some cream cheese or dairy-free cream before serving.

How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté until soft—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sautéing these ingredients helps to create a flavorful base by bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Combine Spices

Next, add all your spices—cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cayenne—to the pot. Stir well to combine everything. This step is crucial because it allows the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils into the dish.

Step 3: Prepare Beans

While that’s cooking away, take one cup of your rinsed white beans and mash them with a potato masher until they are nice and soft. This mashed bean mixture will help thicken our soup later on!

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in your chicken broth along with both the mashed beans and whole white beans into the pot. Add those green chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn—and don’t forget those raw chicken breasts! Give everything a good stir.

Step 5: Cook It Down

Bring your pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low so that it simmers gently. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until your chicken is cooked through—this will depend on how big your chicken breasts are.

Step 6: Shred & Stir

When your chicken is done cooking, turn off the heat and carefully remove those large pieces from the pot. Once they’re cool enough to handle (about 5 minutes), shred them using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with lime juice and Greek yogurt. Stir everything together until combined!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, ladle out generous portions of chili into bowls and top with cilantro, extra Greek yogurt, cheese, tortilla strips, jalapeños—whatever makes you happy! Enjoy every bite of this cozy meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Making the perfect white chicken chili is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili. Consider buying whole spices and grinding them just before use for a more aromatic dish.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even diced jalapenos for an extra kick.

• Meal prep friendly: This chili freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and store half in airtight containers for busy days when you need a quick, healthy meal.

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

• Crockpot convenience: For an effortless meal, toss all ingredients into your Crockpot in the morning and let it cook on low. You’ll come home to a warm, inviting dinner!

How to Serve Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Serving your white chicken chili is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors of the chili beautifully.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime will brighten up each bowl and enhance the overall taste.
• Greek yogurt dollops: Instead of sour cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess with a tangy twist.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs perfectly with spicy dishes. Serve it warm with butter for a delightful contrast.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili and adds freshness to your meal.

• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips not only make for great dippers but also add texture to each bite of chili. Consider serving them on the side or crushed over the top as garnish.

• Rice or quinoa: A hearty scoop of rice or quinoa can soak up any extra broth and provide additional fiber, making your meal even more filling.

By following these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Easy White Chicken Chili! Enjoy every warm bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks ahead. You can easily store leftovers or prepare it in advance to enjoy later. Here’s how to keep your chili fresh and flavorful:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop, heat on medium in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• If the chili thickens while reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency.

FAQs

Got questions about this tasty recipe? Here are some common queries!

Can I make this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) without beans?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to reduce carbs or simply prefer a bean-free version, you can omit the beans altogether. Just increase the amount of chicken or add more veggies for texture.

How do I make this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) spicier?

To kick up the heat, you can add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos. Another great tip is to use spicy green chiles instead of mild ones!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken breasts in a crockpot, increase cooking time by 1-2 hours on low. For stovetop cooking, it’s best to thaw beforehand for even cooking.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your white chicken chili will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

What toppings go well with white chicken chili?

Toppings like Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, cilantro, jalapenos, lime wedges, and tortilla chips elevate your chili and add delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and satisfaction. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!