Description

Warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavors, this Creamy Chicken Chili is a must-make for chilly nights or cozy family dinners. Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, mild green chilies, and a rich, spiced broth, this one-pot dish delivers serious flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of meal that gets better with every bite—and even better the next day!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for more heat)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (like cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen corn
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
½ cup sour cream
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese

For Garnish:

Chopped fresh cilantro
Extra shredded cheese
Diced avocado
Sliced jalapeños
Lime wedges

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Place chicken breasts into the pot.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
Add green chilies, white beans, and chicken broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from the pot and shred using two forks.
Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir in frozen corn.

Step 4: Make It Creamy
Reduce heat to low.
Add cubed cream cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until smooth and creamy.
Let simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Ladle chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like chopped cilantro, extra cheese, diced avocado, or lime wedges.
Serve warm with tortilla chips, cornbread, or crusty bread on the side.

Notes

Use Rotisserie Chicken – A great shortcut for faster prep. Just reduce simmer time.
Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese – It’s what gives the chili its signature creamy texture.
Adjust Spice Level – Add more or less cayenne based on your heat preference.
Make It Thicker – Simmer uncovered longer or mash a few beans directly in the pot.
Fresh Lime Juice – A squeeze of lime brightens the entire dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American