Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that’s quick and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! My Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) has been a favorite in my home for years. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. The delightful blend of spices, chicken, and beans creates a flavor explosion that warms your heart and fills your belly!

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a great choice for meal prep or feeding a crowd. You can have this chili ready in under 40 minutes, which means more time spent enjoying it with the people you love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this chili! The mild flavors and fun toppings make it appealing to everyone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Make it on the stovetop for a quick dinner or in the crockpot for an easy day ahead.
• Delicious Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day—perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. You probably have most of them in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Easy White Chicken Chili.

For the Chili

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2lbs chicken breasts, raw (~3 large breasts)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 4oz cans green chiles
• 1 can fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 can corn, drained and rinsed.
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (I used 2%)

For Serving

• Greek yogurt
• cilantro
• cheddar cheese
• jalapeno
• lime
• tortilla chips

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: You can easily substitute the chicken with turkey or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add more cayenne or diced jalapeños while cooking to kick things up a notch!
• Creamy alternative: Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free sour cream if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

How to Make Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your chili. After about 5 minutes, stir in the minced garlic for one minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Mix in Spices

Next, add all your spices—cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cayenne—to the pot. Stir everything together so that those warm aromas fill your kitchen. This step adds depth to your chili and gives it that signature flavor profile!

Step 3: Prepare Beans

In a separate bowl, take one cup of white beans and mash them with a potato masher until they’re smooth. This will help thicken your chili as it cooks. Set aside while you continue!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the chicken broth along with both mashed beans and regular beans into your pot. Then add green chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, and raw chicken breasts. Stir everything well before bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. The cooking time will vary depending on how big your chicken pieces are—just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

When your chicken is cooked through, turn off the heat. Remove the breasts from the pot and let them cool slightly before shredding with two forks. This step not only makes sure every bite has tender chicken but also lets those flavors meld beautifully back into the chili.

Step 7: Final Touches

Add shredded chicken back into your pot along with freshly squeezed lime juice and Greek yogurt. Stir everything together until creamy goodness forms.

Step 8: Serve!

Ladle your delicious Easy White Chicken Chili into bowls and serve hot! Don’t forget those extra toppings like cilantro, additional Greek yogurt dollops, cheese sprinkles, jalapeños slices for some extra zing—and of course tortilla chips for crunch!

Enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Making this Easy White Chicken Chili is a breeze, but a few tips can help elevate it to the next level!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor of your chili, making it more aromatic and delicious. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use.

• Opt for high-quality chicken broth: A good broth adds depth to your chili. Look for low-sodium options so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

• Shred your chicken while warm: Shredding the chicken when it’s still warm makes it easier to pull apart and ensures that it absorbs more flavor from the chili.

• Customize spice levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more; if you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit it altogether.

• Make it ahead of time: This chili tastes even better after sitting for a day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)

Serving this chili is all about presentation and creating a cozy meal experience. Here are some ideas to make your serving style as delightful as the dish itself!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the rich chili.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the heat.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, fresh jalapeños will bring both heat and color to your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for dipping into your chili and adds a comforting sweetness.
• Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips not only serve as a great side but also as an excellent topping for added texture.
• Rice: Serving over a bed of white or brown rice can turn this dish into a filling meal, soaking up all that delicious broth.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to create an unforgettable meal with this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe! Enjoy every spoonful with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy serving, consider freezing in single-serving sizes.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I make this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with cooked lentils or additional white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long does it take to prepare this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot)?

The total time is around 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal!

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are fully cooked by extending the simmering time. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

What toppings go well with white chicken chili?

Some great toppings include cilantro, Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapenos, and crunchy tortilla chips. Get creative and add your favorites!

Can I use different types of beans in this chili?

Certainly! While white beans are traditional for this recipe, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe! It’s not only simple and quick but also packed with flavor that warms your heart. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or prepping meals for busy weekdays, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to experience how comforting and satisfying it is—happy cooking!