White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
A creamy and comforting white chicken chili that brings warmth to winter nights, featuring tender shredded chicken and silky cream cheese.
Ingredients
For the base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for gentle browning and depth of flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped adds sweetness and fragrance
- 3 cloves garlic, minced bright, savory backbone
- 1 each jalapeno, seeded and finely diced (optional) for a mild kick
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin warm and earthy
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano fragrant and herbal
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder mild heat and color
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached) use breast or thighs
- 3 15-ounce cans white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or Great Northern) creamy texture and protein
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth adjust for desired thickness
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened the magic that makes this chili luxuriously creamy
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) sweetness and pop
- 1 each juice of 1 lime brightens and balances richness
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
For serving
- Fresh cilantro and sliced avocado for cool, herbal finish
- Optional garnishes: shredded Monterey Jack, tortilla chips, or a drizzle of sour cream
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté until translucent and sweet, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and jalapeno; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add cumin, oregano, and chili powder; toast briefly to bloom the spices.
Cooking
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add shredded chicken and white beans. Simmer for 10 minutes so flavors marry and beans soften further.
- Lower the heat and whisk in softened cream cheese a few tablespoons at a time until fully melted and incorporated.
- Stir in corn and lime juice; simmer 2–3 more minutes to warm the corn and brighten the bowl.
Serving
- Serve hot with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and any optional garnishes. Enjoy with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.
Notes
For a smoky layer, add a chipotle pepper in adobo. Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with extra beans and smoky paprika. To make it healthier, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.