The Best White Chicken Chili

Introduction

When the cooler months arrive, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and joy. One of my family’s all-time favorites is this Best White Chicken Chili recipe. It’s a dish that not only warms you up but also brings a burst of flavor with each spoonful. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Neufchâtel cheese, and a medley of spices makes this chili a true winner at the dinner table. My kids absolutely love it, and even my husband, who is not typically a fan of chili, requests this one on a regular basis. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple yet effective. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

To make The Best White Chicken Chili, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (7 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 package (8 oz) Neufchâtel cheese (light cream cheese), cubed
• 1 1/4 cups frozen or fresh corn
• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for serving)

Optional Toppings:

• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla chips or strips

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create The Best White Chicken Chili:

Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent. The aroma of the onion will start to fill your kitchen.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Combine Ingredients

3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Prepare the Beans

5. While the soup simmers, puree 1 cup of cannellini beans with 1/4 cup of broth from the pot in a food processor until smooth. This adds a creamy texture to the chili.

Add the Creamy Ingredients

6. Add the cubed Neufchâtel cheese, corn, whole beans, and pureed beans to the pot. Stir well and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Final Touches

7. Stir in the shredded chicken, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing that brightens the entire dish.

Serve Hot

8. Serve the chili hot, topping each bowl with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, additional cilantro, sliced avocado, and tortilla chips if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

This delightful white chicken chili can be served in a variety of ways. Consider these serving suggestions:

• In a Bowl: Serve hot in individual bowls, topped with cheese and avocado for a satisfying meal.
• With Cornbread: Pair with cornbread or bread rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• As a Party Dish: Serve in a slow cooker on warm during parties for guests to help themselves.
• Over Rice: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier option.
• With Tortilla Chips: Use tortilla chips as a crunchy topping or for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Spicy: If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the flavor, so don’t skip the garnish.
3. Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken from a previous meal.
4. Creamy Texture: For an even creamier texture, use regular cream cheese instead of Neufchâtel.
5. Adjust Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add additional chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your white chicken chili with these variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more beans or lentils for protein. Increase the vegetables for added nutrition.
• Different Beans: Try using different beans like pinto beans or black beans for a unique twist.
• Creamier Chili: Substitute the Neufchâtel cheese with a mixture of sour cream and cream cheese for a richer flavor.
• Use Fresh Chicken: Instead of rotisserie chicken, cook fresh chicken breasts in the pot before adding the broth and spices for a more homemade approach.
• Slow Cooker Method: Prepare the ingredients as usual and cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off meal.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience with The Best White Chicken Chili, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the spices.
• Add a Side Salad: A fresh salad can balance the richness of the chili.
• Top with Fresh Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime over each bowl adds brightness and acidity.
• Include Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy spice, serve pickled jalapeños on the side.
• Garnish with Tortilla Strips: For added texture, top the chili with crispy tortilla strips for crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: White chicken chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
   Yes, if using dried beans, soak and cook them until tender before adding them to the chili.
2. What can I substitute for Neufchâtel cheese?
   Cream cheese or Greek yogurt can be used for a similar texture.
3. Is this chili spicy?
   The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of cayenne pepper and green chilies you use.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
5. What’s the best way to check if the chili is done?
   The chili is done when heated through and the flavors have melded together. The chicken should be fully cooked if using fresh.
6. Can I make this chili ahead of time?
   Yes, it’s great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner.
7. Can I use other meats?
   Ground turkey or shredded pork can be great substitutes for chicken in this recipe.
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
9. How long will this chili keep in the refrigerator?
   It will last for about 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
10. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese for topping.

Conclusion

The Best White Chicken Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a game day feast. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that everyone can enjoy. So gather your ingredients, whip up a pot of this delightful chili, and let the flavors take you on a delicious journey!

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