Creamy White Chili Recipe and Tasty Side Dish Ideas

This creamy white chili recipe is easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal. It uses chicken, white beans, green chilies, and creamy ingredients to create a delicious bowl of chili that your whole family will love.

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chilies

- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

- 1/2 cup sour cream

- 4 ounces cream cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently.

3. Add the raw chicken pieces. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.

4. Stir in cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken with the spices.

5. Add the diced green chilies, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors blend well.

7. Turn off the heat and stir in sour cream and cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the chili becomes creamy.

8. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade creamy white chili recipe!

Making white chili is simple, but a few smart tips can help you make it even better. Here are some useful ideas to improve your white chili recipe:

1. Use rotisserie chicken if in a hurry: If you're short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a quick fix. Just shred it and add it during the last 10 minutes to warm it through.

2. Smash some beans: Mashing a small portion of the white beans before adding them to the pot helps create a thicker, creamier base without needing extra dairy or flour.

3. Add corn for sweetness: A cup of sweet corn, either frozen or canned, adds a gentle sweetness and a pop of color that makes the chili more vibrant and interesting.

4. Adjust the spice level: Tailor the heat to your liking by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper or green chilies. You can even add jalapeño for a spicy kick.

5. Finish with lime juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving balances the richness of the chili and gives the dish a brighter, fresher taste.

6. Use full-fat dairy: Full-fat sour cream and cream cheese give your chili a smoother, silkier texture and a richer, more satisfying flavor compared to low-fat options.

7. Garnish wisely: Top your chili with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips to add color, texture, and extra layers of flavor.

If your stomach is full, but the pot is still half full of chili, don't worry. Leftover white chili is easy to store and tastes just as good the next day.

To store leftover white chili, first let it cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you're ready to eat it again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it's hot.

If you want to store it for longer, white chili can also be frozen. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove. Add a bit of broth or water if it gets too thick.

White chili is great on its own, but adding a side dish makes your meal even better. Here are some tasty ideas to serve with your white chili recipe:

1. Cornbread – The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the creamy chili.

2. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are great for scooping up chili or adding a fun crunch on top.

3. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds bold flavor and is perfect for dipping.

4. Rice – A small bowl of rice can stretch your chili further and soak up all the creamy goodness.

5. Simple Green Salad – A light salad with lettuce, cucumber, and vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chili.

6. Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and colorful side.

7. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy potatoes go well with white chili, especially when topped with cheese or sour cream.

Now that you know how to make white chili, it's time to try it yourself. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this white chili recipe is sure to be a hit!