Creamy White Chicken Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for chilly days or cozy nights. This comforting recipe combines roasted poblano peppers, seasoned chicken, white beans, and a creamy broth made with half-and-half, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Enhanced with salsa verde, fire-roasted corn, and spices, it offers a delightful blend of textures and bold flavors. Pair it with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a crusty baguette for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large poblano peppers (roasted, peeled, and diced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup fire-roasted corn kernels
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: tortilla chips, diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
Directions
- Roast and prepare poblano peppers:
- Roast poblano peppers under a broiler until skin is charred. Place in a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and dice.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Build the base:
- Pour in chicken broth, salsa verde, and fire-roasted corn. Add the roasted poblano peppers and seasonings (cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir to combine.
- Add beans and chicken:
- Stir in the white beans and cooked chicken. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate creaminess:
- Lower the heat and gently stir in half-and-half, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the broth is creamy.
- Serve and garnish:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Creamy White Chicken Chili: A Comforting Bowl of Hearty Goodness
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a dish that effortlessly combines warmth, richness, and robust flavor in one satisfying meal. Perfect for brisk autumn evenings or the heart of winter, this chili recipe is not only a comforting classic but also a versatile addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Its creamy base, zesty undertones, and hearty ingredients make it a dish that appeals to both traditional chili lovers and those seeking something a little different.
Origins of White Chicken Chili
While traditional chili recipes often feature a tomato-based broth with red meat like beef, white chicken chili takes a unique turn. Its roots are thought to be a modern American twist on Tex-Mex cuisine, incorporating ingredients like white beans, green chilies, and chicken into a creamy broth. This deviation from the norm creates a lighter, yet equally satisfying, dish that’s perfect for those who prefer milder spice levels without sacrificing depth of flavor.
What Makes Creamy White Chicken Chili Special?
The hallmark of creamy white chicken chili lies in its balance of textures and flavors. This recipe brings together roasted poblano peppers, tender chunks of seasoned chicken, creamy white beans, and a velvety broth enhanced by sour cream, half-and-half, and cheddar cheese. Together, they create a rich and savory base that’s punctuated by zesty salsa verde and the smoky sweetness of fire-roasted corn.
The roasted poblano peppers deserve a special mention. Their slight smokiness adds complexity to the dish, while their mild heat ensures the chili remains approachable for most palates. The addition of fire-roasted corn not only contributes to the overall flavor but also offers a delightful pop of texture in every bite.
Versatility in Preparation and Serving
One of the reasons this recipe is so beloved is its adaptability. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, creamy white chicken chili is easy to tailor to your needs. It can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Pairing this chili with different accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. A handful of tortilla chips adds crunch, while diced avocado lends a creamy contrast. For those who enjoy a citrusy kick, a squeeze of fresh lime over the bowl can brighten the flavors. Crusty bread or a warm baguette makes a fantastic side for scooping up the chili’s creamy goodness.
Nutritional Highlights and Health Benefits
Despite its indulgent taste, this creamy white chicken chili can be a nourishing and balanced meal. Each serving offers a good amount of protein, thanks to the chicken and white beans, while the poblano peppers and corn provide vitamins and antioxidants. Using half-and-half and sour cream ensures a creamy texture without the heaviness of full cream, while the addition of spices like cumin and chili powder delivers flavor without excess calories.
For those looking to tweak the recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, several modifications are possible:
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the half-and-half and sour cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the cheddar.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the number of beans or replace them with additional chicken or low-carb vegetables like zucchini.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace the chicken with additional beans, tofu, or even roasted cauliflower for a hearty meatless version.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy White Chicken Chili
Achieving the best results often lies in the details. Here are some tips to ensure your chili is always a hit:
- Roasting Poblano Peppers: Properly roasting and peeling the peppers enhances their smoky flavor and ensures a smooth texture in the chili.
- Using Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh salsa verde and high-quality chicken broth to maximize flavor.
- Gentle Cooking: When adding the creamy elements like half-and-half, sour cream, and cheese, make sure the heat is low to prevent curdling or separation.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This creamy white chicken chili isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful, with its perfect combination of creamy, smoky, and tangy elements. The dish’s adaptability also makes it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, family meals, or potlucks. And perhaps the best part? It’s deceptively easy to prepare, with minimal prep and cook time compared to the depth of flavor it delivers.
Conclusion: A Bowl Worth Sharing
Creamy White Chicken Chili is more than just comfort food—it’s a dish that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting loved ones, this recipe offers a little something for everyone. With its rich flavors, customizable toppings, and hearty ingredients, it’s destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
So the next time the weather turns cold or you find yourself craving something warm and satisfying, reach for this recipe. Serve it with a smile, knowing you’ve created something truly memorable. After all, a steaming bowl of creamy white chicken chili has a way of making any meal feel a little more special.
Creamy White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for chilly days or cozy nights. This comforting recipe combines roasted poblano peppers, seasoned chicken, white beans, and a creamy broth made with half-and-half, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Enhanced with salsa verde, fire-roasted corn, and spices, it offers a delightful blend of textures and bold flavors. Pair it with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a crusty baguette for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large poblano peppers (roasted, peeled, and diced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup fire-roasted corn kernels
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: tortilla chips, diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Roast and prepare poblano peppers:
- Roast poblano peppers under a broiler until skin is charred. Place in a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and dice.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Build the base:
- Pour in chicken broth, salsa verde, and fire-roasted corn. Add the roasted poblano peppers and seasonings (cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir to combine.
- Add beans and chicken:
- Stir in the white beans and cooked chicken. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate creaminess:
- Lower the heat and gently stir in half-and-half, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the broth is creamy.
- Serve and garnish:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch