We’ve been on a bit of a high-protein dinner kick lately. It feels good to eat meals that keep you full without making you feel heavy or tired. Many of our readers are looking for the same thing: easy, healthy meals that the whole family will actually eat.
White chicken chili is the perfect answer because it is light, creamy, and packed with fiber. A single bowl can give you 30 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber for under 400 calories. That is a winning number for a Tuesday night! This list has 25 different ways to make it, from slow cooker versions to 20-minute stovetop meals. We used common items like canned beans, rotisserie chicken, and simple spices. You can make these as spicy or as mild as you like. After you try these, be sure to check out our other cozy soup guides for more dinner ideas.
The Secrets to Perfect White Chicken Chili
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about texture. A great chili should be thick, not watery.
How to Thicken Your Chili
One of the best tricks is to take a half-cup of the white beans and mash them with a fork. Stir them back into the pot. This creates a natural creaminess without adding extra fat. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the very end.
Choosing Your Chicken
You have three main choices here:
- Rotisserie Chicken: This is the fastest way. Just shred it and toss it in at the end.
- Chicken Breasts: These stay lean but can dry out if cooked too long.
- Chicken Thighs: These are very juicy and hold up well in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours.
The Best Bean Options
Most of these recipes use Great Northern beans or Cannellini beans. Cannellini beans are larger and creamier. Great Northern beans are a bit firmer. Navy beans are the smallest and cook the fastest. You can mix and match them based on what is in your pantry.
1. The Classic Creamy White Chicken Chili
This is the recipe that started it all. It has a rich, velvety broth made with a touch of cream cheese and plenty of green chiles. It smells like a warm kitchen on a rainy day.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 340 calories, 28g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 3 cups |
| White beans, rinsed | 2 cans (15oz) |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Diced green chiles | 1 can (4oz) |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a large pot until soft.
- Add the broth, beans, chiles, and cumin. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken.
- Add the cream cheese in small chunks. Stir until it melts and the soup is creamy.
- Serve warm with lime wedges.
Why You’ll Love It: This is the ultimate comfort food. It uses cream cheese to get that perfect texture without making a flour roux. It is very beginner-friendly.
2. Slow Cooker "Set and Forget" Chili
This version is for busy mornings. You put everything in the pot before work and come home to a house that smells amazing. The chicken gets so tender it falls apart.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (Low)
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 310 calories, 32g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Raw chicken breasts | 1.5 lbs |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Corn, frozen | 1 cup |
| Salsa verde | 1 cup |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Place the raw chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the broth, beans, corn, salsa, and chili powder over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Put the chicken back in and stir well before serving.
Why You’ll Love It: Using salsa verde adds a huge punch of flavor with zero chopping. It is a great budget-saver since it uses simple pantry staples.
3. Instant Pot 20-Minute Chili
If you forgot to start dinner, this is your hero. The pressure cooker infuses the beans with spice in a fraction of the time. It is fast, fresh, and flavorful.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 290 calories, 30g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, cubed | 1 lb |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken stock | 3 cups |
| Chopped jalapeño | 1 tbsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Fresh cilantro | 1/4 cup |
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients except cilantro to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid and set to "High Pressure" for 10 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then vent.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro and serve.
Why You’ll Love It: It is incredibly fast. The jalapeño gives it a bright kick that wakes up your taste buds without being too hot.
4. Five-Ingredient Budget Chili
Eating well does not have to be expensive. This recipe uses just five main items to keep your grocery bill low. It is simple but very filling.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 350 calories, 25g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned chicken | 2 cans (12oz) |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Mild salsa | 1 jar (16oz) |
| Shredded Monterey Jack | 1 cup |
Instructions:
- Combine broth, beans, and salsa in a pot.
- Bring to a boil and then lower heat to a simmer.
- Add the canned chicken (drained).
- Stir until hot.
- Top each bowl with a big handful of cheese.
Why You’ll Love It: You can keep all these items in your pantry for months. It is the perfect "emergency" dinner for when you can't get to the store.
5. Dairy-Free Coconut Chicken Chili
Many people avoid dairy but still want a creamy soup. Coconut milk adds a silky texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with lime and spice.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5
Estimated Nutrition Info: 380 calories, 27g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 3 cups |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Full-fat coconut milk | 1 can (14oz) |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin and Coriander | 1 tsp each |
Instructions:
- Heat the broth and beans in a pot until bubbling.
- Lower the heat and stir in the coconut milk.
- Add the chicken and spices.
- Simmer for 10 minutes. Do not let it boil hard, or the coconut milk may separate.
- Stir in the lime juice at the very end.
Why You’ll Love It: It feels fancy and tropical but stays very healthy. The lime juice makes the flavors pop.
6. Healthy Broth-Based White Chili
This version skips the cream and cheese for a lighter, more refreshing meal. It is full of vegetables and clear broth. It is great if you are feeling under the weather.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 220 calories, 28g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1 lb |
| Celery, sliced | 3 stalks |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
| Bell pepper, diced | 1 large |
| White beans | 1 can |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
Instructions:
- Sauté the celery, carrots, and peppers in a large pot.
- Add the broth and the whole chicken breasts.
- Simmer until the chicken is cooked through (about 15 minutes).
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
- Add the beans and cook for 5 more minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very low in calories but very high in volume. You can eat a large portion and feel satisfied.
7. Smoky Poblano Chicken Chili
Poblano peppers are mild but have an earthy, smoky flavor. Roasting them first makes this chili taste like it came from a professional kitchen.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 330 calories, 30g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Poblano peppers | 2 large |
| Chicken thighs | 1 lb |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Corn | 1 cup |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Roast the peppers under a broiler until the skin is charred. Peel and chop them.
- Brown the chicken thighs in a pot and then chop them up.
- Add the chopped peppers, beans, corn, broth, and paprika to the pot.
- Simmer for 20 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Why You’ll Love It: The smoky flavor is deep and complex. It is not "spicy" in a hot way, just very savory.
8. Salsa Verde Quick Chili
Salsa verde is made from roasted tomatillos. It provides acid, salt, and heat all in one jar. This is a very "bright" tasting soup.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 280 calories, 26g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie chicken | 3 cups |
| Salsa verde | 16 oz |
| Cannellini beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Fresh cilantro | 1 handful |
Instructions:
- Mix the salsa, beans, and broth in a pot.
- Bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken and cook until hot.
- Garnish with lots of cilantro.
Why You’ll Love It: It takes almost no effort. The tomatillos in the salsa give the broth a beautiful green tint and a zesty finish.
9. Creamy Corn and Bean Chili
The sweetness of the corn balances the savory chicken. This version is very thick and almost like a chowder. Kids usually love this one because it is mild and sweet.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 360 calories, 24g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken, diced | 1.5 lbs |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Frozen corn | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1 small |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Sauté the onion and chicken together until the chicken is browned.
- Add beans, corn, and broth.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2 more minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very filling and has a great texture. The corn adds a nice "pop" to every bite.
10. Leftover Turkey White Chili
Don't wait for Thanksgiving to make this! If you have leftover turkey, it works even better than chicken. Turkey has a stronger flavor that stands up well to spices.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 5
Estimated Nutrition Info: 320 calories, 31g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked turkey | 3 cups |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Green chiles | 1 can |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
Instructions:
- Boil the broth, beans, and chiles.
- Add the turkey and poultry seasoning.
- Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream.
Why You’ll Love It: It is a great way to use up holiday leftovers. The sour cream makes it tangy and rich.
11. Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chili
If you love jalapeño poppers, you will love this. It uses cream cheese and bacon to mimic the flavor of the famous appetizer.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 450 calories, 29g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1.5 lbs |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 6 slices |
| Jalapeños, seeded and diced | 3 |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon in a pot. Remove the bacon but keep the grease.
- Sauté the jalapeños in the bacon grease.
- Add chicken, beans, and broth. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Melt in the cream cheese.
- Top with the crumbled bacon before serving.
Why You’ll Love It: It is bold and indulgent. The bacon grease adds a level of flavor that you can't get from oil.
12. Keto Low-Carb White Chili (No Beans)
You can still enjoy chili without the beans. We use extra vegetables like cauliflower to keep the bulk without the carbs.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 390 calories, 35g protein, 8g net carbs
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 1.5 lbs |
| Cauliflower florets, small | 3 cups |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Diced chiles | 1 can |
Instructions:
- Sauté chicken, celery, and chiles.
- Add broth and cauliflower.
- Simmer until cauliflower is tender (about 12 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer until thick.
Why You’ll Love It: The cauliflower picks up the spice perfectly. It satisfies that "creamy soup" craving while staying keto-friendly.
13. Southwest Black and White Chili
Why use only one kind of bean? Mixing white beans and black beans makes the bowl look beautiful and adds different textures.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 310 calories, 27g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1.5 lbs |
| White beans | 1 can |
| Black beans | 1 can |
| Corn | 1 cup |
| Cumin | 2 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Broth | 4 cups |
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken in a large pot.
- Add all other ingredients.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Smash a few of the white beans against the side of the pot to thicken.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very colorful. The black beans add a bit more "earthy" flavor than the white beans alone.
14. Pumpkin White Chicken Chili
This sounds unusual, but it is delicious. The pumpkin puree makes the broth very thick and slightly sweet. It is the perfect fall meal.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5
Estimated Nutrition Info: 330 calories, 26g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 3 cups |
| Pumpkin puree (not pie mix) | 1 can (15oz) |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Cinnamon | a pinch |
Instructions:
- Sauté garlic in the pot.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, broth, and beans.
- Add chicken and a tiny pinch of cinnamon (it brings out the savory notes).
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very high in Vitamin A and fiber. The texture is incredibly silky.
15. Buffalo Chicken White Chili
If you like wings, this is for you. We use buffalo hot sauce to give the chili that classic orange glow and spicy vinegar kick.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 370 calories, 30g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 3 cups |
| Buffalo sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
Instructions:
- Sauté the celery in a pot.
- Add broth, beans, ranch mix, and buffalo sauce.
- Stir in the chicken.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve with blue cheese crumbles on top.
Why You’ll Love It: It tastes exactly like buffalo wings but in a healthy, spoonable form.
16. Garlic and Herb White Chili
This version moves away from the Mexican flavor profile. Instead, it uses rosemary, thyme, and lots of roasted garlic for a French-inspired taste.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 5
Estimated Nutrition Info: 320 calories, 28g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1.5 lbs |
| Garlic | 6 cloves, minced |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 tsp |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| White wine (dry) | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken and garlic in olive oil.
- Deglaze the pan with the white wine.
- Add beans, broth, and rosemary.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is elegant and sophisticated. It feels more like a bistro meal than a standard chili.
17. Sweet Potato and Chicken Chili
Sweet potatoes add a wonderful orange color and a boost of healthy carbs. They melt into the broth and make it naturally sweet and thick.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 340 calories, 25g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 lb |
| Sweet potato, peeled and cubed | 2 cups |
| White beans | 1 can |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Broth | 4 cups |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and chicken.
- Add broth and sweet potato cubes.
- Boil until potatoes are soft (about 15-20 minutes).
- Add beans and cumin. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is a complete meal in one bowl. The sweet potatoes are very filling.
18. Beer-Braised White Chicken Chili
Using a light beer (like a lager) adds a malty depth to the soup. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a rich, yeasty flavor.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 350 calories, 27g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 1.5 lbs |
| Light beer | 12 oz |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Green chiles | 2 cans |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken thighs.
- Pour in the beer to scrape the brown bits off the bottom of the pot.
- Add broth, beans, chiles, and garlic.
- Simmer on low for 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It has a "pub-style" flavor that is very satisfying on a cold night.
19. Greek Yogurt Swirl Chili
This is a high-protein trick. Instead of using heavy cream, we stir in Greek yogurt at the end. It adds tang and a massive protein boost.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 290 calories, 35g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 3 cups |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 1 cup |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Heat chicken, beans, and broth in a pot.
- Once hot, turn the heat to the lowest setting.
- Temper the yogurt by mixing a little hot broth into it first.
- Stir the yogurt mixture into the pot. Do not boil.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very lean but tastes very creamy. It is one of the healthiest ways to get a "creamy" soup.
20. Chorizo and Chicken White Chili
Chorizo is a spicy sausage that releases a red, flavorful oil. This "white" chili actually turns a bit orange, but the flavor is incredible.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 420 calories, 32g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chorizo | 1/2 lb |
| Chicken breast, diced | 1 lb |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
| Onion | 1 large |
Instructions:
- Brown the chorizo and onion first.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add beans and broth.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It is very meaty and hearty. The chorizo provides all the spice you need.
21. One-Pot "Pantry" Chili
This recipe assumes you have nothing fresh in the house. It uses all canned or dried goods but still tastes fresh.
Preparation Time: 2 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 310 calories, 24g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned chicken | 2 cans |
| Canned white beans | 2 cans |
| Jarred salsa | 1 cup |
| Chicken bouillon + water | 2 cups |
| Dried onion flakes | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a pot.
- Bring to a boil.
- Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: There is zero chopping involved. It is a true "lazy day" meal.
22. Lime and Cilantro-Heavy Chili
This is for the people who love brightness. It uses double the usual amount of lime and fresh herbs to make a very "green" and fresh soup.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition Info: 270 calories, 28g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 lb |
| White beans | 2 cans |
| Fresh cilantro | 1 full cup, chopped |
| Limes | 3 (juiced) |
| Jalapeño | 1 |
| Broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Simmer chicken and beans in the broth with the jalapeño.
- Just before serving, stir in all the cilantro and all the lime juice.
- Taste and add salt.
Why You’ll Love It: It is incredibly vibrant. It feels more like a summer soup than a heavy winter stew.
23. Freezer-Meal Prep Chili
This recipe is designed to be frozen in bags and then dumped into a pot later. We skip the dairy so it freezes better.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (after thawing)
Servings: 6
Estimated Nutrition Info: 320 calories, 30g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1.5 lbs |
| Canned beans | 2 cans |
| Chopped onions/peppers | 2 cups |
| Chili spices | 2 tbsp |
| Broth (add later) | 4 cups |
Instructions:
- Put chicken, beans, veg, and spices into a freezer-safe bag.
- To cook: Thaw overnight, put in a pot with broth, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It: It makes weeknight cooking effortless. You do all the work once and eat for weeks.
24. Spinach and Artichoke White Chili
This is a fun twist on the classic dip. The artichokes add a nice "bite" and the spinach adds a pop of color and iron.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5
Estimated Nutrition Info: 350 calories, 27g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 lb |
| Canned artichoke hearts, chopped | 1 can |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups |
| White beans | 1 can |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz |
| Broth | 3 cups |
Instructions:
- Cook chicken and artichokes in the broth for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the white beans and cream cheese until melted.
- Add the spinach at the very last second so it just barely wilts.
Why You’ll Love It: It is a clever way to eat more greens. It feels very decadent and creamy.
25. Award-Winning Thick and Hearty Chili
This is the one to make for a chili cook-off. It uses a mix of three types of beans and cornmeal to make the thickest broth possible.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Estimated Nutrition Info: 410 calories, 33g protein
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 2 lbs |
| Navy, Northern, and Cannellini beans | 1 can each |
| Cornmeal (Polenta) | 2 tbsp |
| Green chiles | 2 cans |
| Cumin, Garlic, Onion powder | 1 tbsp each |
| Broth | 5 cups |
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken and then remove it.
- Whisk the cornmeal into the broth and bring to a boil. It will thicken up.
- Add chicken back in with all beans and spices.
- Simmer on low for 45 minutes until very thick.
Why You’ll Love It: The texture is incredible. It is more of a stew than a soup, and it wins people over every time.
How to Serve Your Chili
A chili is only as good as its toppings. Since white chicken chili is creamy and savory, you want toppings that add crunch or acid.
- Crunchy: Tortilla chips, corn strips, or even toasted pumpkin seeds.
- Creamy: Sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Fresh: Extra lime wedges, pickled jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
- Sides: A piece of warm cornbread or a simple side salad with a vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
Storing and Freezing Tips
One of the best things about white chicken chili is that it tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to mingle.
In the Fridge
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When you reheat it, you might need to add a splash of water or broth, as the beans will soak up the liquid.
In the Freezer
Most of these recipes freeze well for up to 3 months. If the recipe has a lot of dairy (like cream cheese or heavy cream), it might look slightly grainy when thawed. To fix this, just stir it well while reheating on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dry beans instead of canned?
Yes! You will need to soak them overnight and cook them for about 60-90 minutes before adding the chicken. One pound of dry beans is roughly equal to three 15-ounce cans.
My chili is too thin. How do I fix it?
The best way is to mash some of the beans. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the boiling soup. It will thicken almost instantly.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add extra beans, chickpeas, or even diced tofu to keep the protein high.
What is the difference between white chili and regular chili?
Regular chili usually has a tomato base and uses beef and kidney beans. White chili uses a broth or cream base with chicken and white beans. It is generally lighter in flavor.
Is white chicken chili spicy?
It depends on the green chiles you use. Most canned chiles are "mild." If you want it spicy, add fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are looking for a quick meal after a long day or a hearty stew for a weekend gathering, white chicken chili is a fantastic choice. It is flexible, healthy, and easy on the wallet. Pick one recipe from this list to try tonight, and we bet it will become a new favorite in your house. Don't forget to save this list for those cold months when you need a little extra warmth!