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Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili (Slow Cooker or Stovetop)

Close-up of a bowl of creamy white chicken chili with shredded chicken, white beans, melted cheese, and fresh cilantro.
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Make this incredibly easy and comforting creamy white chicken chili. It is perfect for quick, healthy weeknight meals and uses simple ingredients for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts, chopped onion, rinsed beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) into a slow cooker.
  2. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until it melts completely into the chili, creating a creamy base.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat on low for another 10 minutes until the chili is heated through and fully creamy. Do not boil after adding dairy.
  6. Taste the chili and add salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.

Notes

  • For a stovetop version, cook the chicken in the broth until done, shred it, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer until creamy. This takes about 45 minutes total.
  • If you use rotisserie chicken, skip step 4 and add the shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • This recipe is great for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://sundayflavor.com/easy-creamy-white-chicken-chili-recipe/