There’s just something so heartwarming about a creamy soup on a chilly day, right? It wraps you up like a cozy blanket and gives you that instant comfort. That’s why I absolutely adore my White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese! It’s creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spice to warm you from the inside out. I remember the first time I made it; it was one of those rainy afternoons when all I wanted was a bowl of something delicious. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. As I took my first spoonful, I knew I had found my new favorite dish. Trust me, once you try this chili, it’ll become your go-to for those cool nights too!
Ingredients for White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to whip up a delicious batch of white chicken chili that’s sure to please! You’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftovers work great!)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed for a creamy texture
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies for a kick
- 1 cup chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, which adds that rich creaminess
- 1 onion, chopped finely to build flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic goodness
- 1 teaspoon cumin for warmth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder for depth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned, for sweetness and texture
- Fresh cilantro for garnish—trust me, it brightens everything up!
How to Prepare White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
Alright, let’s get cooking! This creamy white chicken chili comes together in a breeze, and I promise you’ll be savoring every spoonful in no time. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and let them sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Oh, the smell is just divine!
Step 2 – Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add all the goodness! Stir in the shredded chicken, drained white beans, diced tomatoes (with all that spicy goodness!), chicken broth, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. You’re going to love the colors!
Step 3 – Simmer the Chili
Bring that delicious mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away on medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully. Just wait until you catch a whiff!
Step 4 – Add Cream Cheese
After simmering, it’s time for the star of the show—the cream cheese! Cut it into chunks and stir it into the chili until it’s melted and fully combined. This will give your chili that creamy, luscious texture that’s so comforting!
Step 5 – Serve and Garnish
Once everything is perfectly blended, ladle the chili into bowls while it’s hot. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top—it adds a lovely touch! Now, grab a spoon and dive into your cozy bowl of comfort. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information for White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
This creamy white chicken chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients. So, feel free to adjust to match your dietary needs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy goodness from the cream cheese makes every bite heavenly.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn.
- Versatile—you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste!
- Great for meal prep; it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
- Comforting and satisfying, this chili will warm you right up!
Tips for Success
To ensure your white chicken chili turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t rush the sautéing process; letting the onions and garlic soften really brings out their flavors. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce! Also, remember to taste as you go—seasoning is key, so adjust the salt and spices to your liking. And if you have leftovers, they’ll only get better as they sit, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch. Trust me, this chili loves to be reheated!
Variations of White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
One of the best things about this white chicken chili is how versatile it is! If you want to switch it up, try using different beans like black beans or pinto beans for a unique twist. You can also add in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies. For a smoky flavor, consider tossing in a few chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of lime juice for brightness or a handful of spinach for a pop of color and nutrients. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good!), you can store your white chicken chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Just be careful—it can get hot quickly! Enjoy every last drop!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your white chicken chili experience, consider serving it with crispy tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch! A side of cornbread or warm flour tortillas would also be delightful for scooping up every last bit. If you want to add a refreshing touch, a simple avocado salad or a zesty lime wedge can brighten up the meal. And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra creaminess. Enjoy your cozy feast!
White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese: 5 Cozy Comforts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful white chicken chili with cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the shredded chicken, beans, tomatoes, chicken broth, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the cream cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- This chili can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: White Chicken Chili, Cream Cheese Chili, Chicken Chili Recipe