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Bowl of delicious White Chicken Chili topped with cilantro and lime

White Chicken Chili

A cozy, one-pot White Chicken Chili that combines comforting flavors with a hint of spice, perfect for chilly nights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 whole jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional) Optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 large breasts)
  • 3 cans white beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz each)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk For creaminess
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 whole Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish For serving

Optional toppings

  • shredded cheese For serving
  • sliced avocado For serving
  • crispy tortilla strips For serving

Instructions
 

Sauté aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, 4–5 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic and jalapeño; cook 1 minute.

Toast spices

  • Add cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Combine ingredients

  • Stir in the white beans and chicken broth. Use a potato masher to smash about a third of the beans for a creamier texture.

Simmer with chicken

  • Add shredded chicken and corn. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Finish with cream and lime

  • Stir in the half-and-half (or coconut milk) and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Heat through but don’t boil.
  • Serve garnished with cilantro and your favorite toppings.

Notes

Use leftover roasted chicken for moist meat. Toasting spices adds flavor. For a thicker chili, mash more beans or cook uncovered. For a lighter version, use plain yogurt instead of half-and-half.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2g
Keyword comfort food, Hearty Soup, One-Pot Dinner, Seasonal Recipe, White Chicken Chili
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