Name: Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 onion, diced; 1 jalapeño, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 can diced green chiles; 2 cups shredded chicken; 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Cheese, scallions, and sour cream for garnish

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Are you on the lookout for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s both hearty and quick to prepare? Look no further than this Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a bowl of deliciousness in no time. Contrary to the common belief that making chili is a lengthy process, this recipe proves otherwise. In this guide, you’ll learn how to whip up a creamy, flavorful chicken chili that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike.

Table of Contents

What Is Creamy White Chicken Chili?

Creamy white chicken chili distinguishes itself from traditional chili by featuring a smooth and rich base, typically made with chicken broth and a combination of dairy. This chili often incorporates spices such as cumin and paprika, showcasing the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. Additionally, the use of white beans and green chiles adds a unique twist, delivering a depth of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Quick Facts about Creamy White Chicken Chili

Serving Size: 1 Bowl (approximately 400 g)
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Total Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and jalapeño; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, oregano, and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Action: Heat oil, add vegetables and spices.
- Expected result: Vegetables softened and spices aromatic.
Add the diced green chiles, shredded chicken, beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Action: Mix in the main ingredients.
- Expected result: A combined mixture ready to simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Action: Simmer the mixture.
- Expected result: Flavors melded together beautifully.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Add the sour cream and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
- Action: Prepare the creamy mixture.
- Expected result: Smooth and lump-free cream mixture.
Add the cornstarch/cream mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and become creamy.
- Action: Incorporate the creamy mixture.
- Expected result: A rich, thickened chili.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Action: Final seasoning.
- Expected result: Full-bodied flavor balanced.
Serve and garnish with cheese, scallions, and sour cream.
- Action: Plate the chili.
- Expected result: An aesthetically pleasing dish ready for enjoyment.

Variations & Substitutes

There are several ways to customize this creamy white chicken chili to fit various dietary needs or personal preferences. Consider the following options:

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with diced vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
Low-fat: Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.

These variations maintain the essential flavor profile while accommodating different tastes and dietary requirements.

Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy white chicken chili, here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Overcooking the chicken: It can become dry and tough. Place shredded chicken in during the last steps.
Skipping the sauté: This step is crucial for flavor development; don’t skip it.
Adding too much salt early on: It can lead to an overly salty dish; adjust at the end.
Not allowing flavors to meld: Be patient during the simmering stage.

Checklist for Perfect Chili:

[ ] Cook onions until translucent.
[ ] Stir well to combine ingredients.
[ ] Simmer long enough to meld flavors.

Storage Tips and Reuse

Leftover creamy white chicken chili can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth for consistency. Alternatively, this chili freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that combines ease of preparation with satisfying flavors, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it for a quick weeknight meal or serve it at a gathering, it gathers hearts and appetites alike. With its versatility and rich flavors, this chili is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy this creamy comfort food without any fuss!