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Creamy White Chicken Chili

A close-up of a creamy white chicken chili in a bowl, topped generously with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro.

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Make this hearty, creamy white chicken chili easily in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. It is a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, undrained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper 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 cooked through and tender.
  3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  4. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until it melts completely into the chili.
  5. If using, stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture. Heat through for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  7. Ladle the chili into bowls. Top each serving with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a stovetop version, combine all ingredients except cream cheese and cream in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes. Shred chicken, stir in cream cheese and cream, and heat through.
  • If you prefer a spicier chili, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or one diced jalapeño with the other ingredients.
  • This chili freezes well. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers.

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