Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—all while being gluten-free and dairy-free. Plus, it comes together so quickly in the Instant Pot, making it ideal for those days when you need to whip up something delicious in no time.

Every spoonful of this chili warms your soul, and I can promise it will become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to delight both friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot, you’ll have a hearty meal ready without hours spent in the kitchen!
• Family-friendly flavors: This recipe combines mild spices and creamy goodness that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this chili ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for a quick reheat later!
• Customizable toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips to make each bowl uniquely yours.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with beans and chicken, this chili offers a wholesome meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You likely already have many of these on hand! Here’s what you need:

For the Chili Base

• 30 oz. great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 cups frozen corn
• 1/2 cup yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 oz. hatch green chiles
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken (breast or thighs)

For Creaminess & Flavor

• 1/2 cup plain cream cheese (regular or dairy-free)
• 1 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp lime juice

Optional Toppings

• Cilantro
• Avocado
• Jalapeño
• Tortilla chips

Variations

One of the best things about this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey instead of raw chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Try different beans: Black beans or pinto beans can be great substitutes if you want to switch things up!

How to Make Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them as needed. Dice your onions and mince the garlic; this step helps release their wonderful flavors into the chili.

Step 2: Layer Everything in the Instant Pot

Add the great northern beans to your Instant Pot first. Then sprinkle the frozen corn on top. Next, gently add the diced onion, minced garlic, hatch green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper over everything. Finally, lay the boneless skinless chicken on top of these layers. Adding these ingredients in this order ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Broth

Cut your cream cheese into small chunks—about five or six—and scatter them over the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth carefully so that everything is nicely submerged. This step is key for creating that creamy texture we love!

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid tightly on your Instant Pot with the valve set to seal. Pressure cook for 15 minutes; remember that it will take about 10 minutes for your pot to come to pressure first! After it’s done cooking, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Stir

Once it’s safe to open your Instant Pot, remove the chicken carefully using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces—this makes every bite perfect! While you do this, give your chili a good stir; make sure that cream cheese has completely melted into that luscious broth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your shredded chicken back into the pot and stir everything together until well mixed. Now’s the time to taste-test! Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Ladle generous portions into bowls and don’t forget those optional toppings like fresh cilantro, creamy avocado slices, spicy jalapeños, or crunchy tortilla chips! Enjoy every warm sip of this delightful Instant Pot White Chicken Chili!

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Creating the perfect Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is all about mastering a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve chili perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and spices can elevate the flavor of your chili significantly, making it taste homemade and vibrant.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a little kick, consider adding more hatch green chiles or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This allows you to customize the heat level to your liking.

• Shred the chicken finely: Shredding the chicken into smaller pieces helps it absorb more of the delicious flavors in the soup, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

• Let it sit before serving: Allowing your chili to rest for about 10-15 minutes after cooking can enhance the flavors as they meld together, making for a richer dish.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Sprinkle in some fresh herbs or squeeze extra lime juice for zest.

How to Serve Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Serving up your Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the chili’s richness perfectly.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add texture and an extra layer of flavor, balancing out the spices.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup and make for a great visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This warm, slightly sweet bread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up all those tasty flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette adds crispness and balances out the richness of the chili.
• Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole enhances the meal’s texture and adds another layer of deliciousness.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving your chili over a bed of rice or quinoa makes it even more filling while adding a nice chewy contrast.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Instant Pot White Chicken Chili that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for those busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

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 container with the date so you know when to enjoy it by!

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
• For frozen chili, thaw in the fridge overnight, then follow the stove method. You can also use the microwave; just ensure it’s heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot White Chicken Chili:

Can I use other types of beans for Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?

Absolutely! While great northern beans work wonderfully, you can substitute them with cannellini beans or navy beans according to your preference.

How spicy is this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. The hatch green chiles add a mild heat, but feel free to add jalapeños if you like it spicier!

Can I make Instant Pot White Chicken Chili without cream cheese?

Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can omit cream cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?

The total time includes about 10 minutes for the pot to come to pressure plus 15 minutes of cooking and a 10-minute natural release. It’s a quick and easy meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s an ideal recipe for gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving some for later, this dish is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and good food!