Let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy dish: White Chicken Chili Chowder! This isn’t just any soup; it’s a thick, creamy hug in a bowl that warms you right down to your toes. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly fall evening, and the moment I took my first spoonful, I was hooked! The delightful blend of spices and the richness of the cream make this chowder irresistibly comforting. Plus, it’s packed with tender chicken and hearty beans, making it a satisfying meal all on its own. Trust me, once you try this creamy goodness, it’ll become your go-to for any chilly night—or really, any night at all!
Ingredients for White Chicken Chili Chowder
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can use leftover chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken for convenience—easy peasy!
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans: Make sure to drain and rinse them well; they add a lovely creaminess!
- 1 cup corn: Frozen or canned works great. I love using frozen corn for that fresh crunch.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This is the base of your chowder, so use a good-quality broth for the best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes it ultra creamy and rich. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- 1 medium onion, diced: This adds a wonderful aroma and sweetness to the chowder.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: This gives your chowder that signature chili kick. Adjust it if you like it spicier!
- 1 teaspoon cumin: It adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A little sprinkle goes a long way.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to perfection.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: This adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
Make sure you have everything ready to go, and let’s dive into the cooking process!
How to Prepare White Chicken Chili Chowder
Now, let’s get cooking this delightful chowder! It’s super simple and comes together in no time, perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want something warm and satisfying. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of creamy goodness in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm to get those flavors going!
- Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This is where the magic begins, and trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
- Once the onions are ready, stir in the shredded chicken, white beans, and corn. Let them mingle for a minute or two, making sure everything is well-combined.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where it starts to get cozy—let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld those flavors.
- Now, add the heavy cream and stir until everything is beautifully combined. You’ll see it turn into that luscious, creamy chowder we’re all craving!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and don’t be afraid to adjust the chili powder and cumin if you want a little extra kick. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken up a bit more.
- Finally, serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for that pop of flavor. Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: You can whip this up in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
- Creamy Texture: The heavy cream creates a velvety, rich chowder that feels indulgent without all the fuss.
- Hearty Meal: Packed with shredded chicken, white beans, and corn, this chowder is filling enough to stand alone as a satisfying meal.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can dig in without worry!
- Customizable Flavors: You can easily tweak the spices or add your favorite veggies to make this chowder uniquely yours!
Tips for Success
To make sure your White Chicken Chili Chowder turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips for you!
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option—just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit. For the chicken, rotisserie is a lifesaver, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works great too!
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Don’t hesitate to play around with the chili powder and cumin! If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños. Start small and taste as you go!
- Sautéing Tips: When sautéing the onions and garlic, keep an eye on them! You want them soft and translucent, not browned. Stirring occasionally helps prevent burning and enhances that beautiful aroma.
- Storage: This chowder keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, I recommend leaving out the cream and adding it when you reheat for the best texture.
- Reheating: When reheating, do it slowly over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir it gently and add a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
With these tips, you’ll master this creamy chowder like a pro! Enjoy every luscious spoonful!
Variations on White Chicken Chili Chowder
One of the best things about this White Chicken Chili Chowder is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to inspire your next batch:
- Add Different Vegetables: Feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic for a delicious twist!
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using ground turkey or beef instead. Just brown it in the pot first, then follow the rest of the recipe. You could even go vegetarian by using extra beans or lentils!
- Spice it Up: Want a kick? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also try smoked paprika for a different flavor profile—it brings a lovely warmth to the chowder!
- Herbs and Seasonings: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. They can add a lovely layer of flavor. Dried herbs work too—just remember they’re more concentrated, so use them sparingly!
- Creamy Alternatives: If you want to lighten it up, consider using Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of heavy cream. Just stir it in at the end to keep it creamy without all the calories!
- Cheesy Goodness: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle in some shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar just before serving. Let it melt into the chowder for a rich, gooey texture!
With these variations, you can keep your White Chicken Chili Chowder exciting and new every time! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this creamy White Chicken Chili Chowder. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portions, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This chowder is not only delicious but also hearty and satisfying, providing a nice balance of protein and fiber. Perfect for a comforting meal that warms you up inside!
FAQ about White Chicken Chili Chowder
I know you might have some questions about this delicious White Chicken Chili Chowder, so let’s clear up a few common queries!
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chowder actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can always reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you need to freeze it, I recommend leaving out the heavy cream and adding it when you reheat for the best texture!
Can I adjust the spice level?
Of course! If you prefer a milder chowder, reduce the chili powder or leave it out entirely. On the flip side, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more chili powder, some diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce. Just remember to taste as you go!
What can I serve with this chowder?
This chowder is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, I recommend pairing it with some crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some cheesy quesadillas on the side. You can also top it with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or extra cilantro for a fun twist!
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Definitely! You can swap out the chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even keep it vegetarian by using more beans or lentils. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How thick should the chowder be?
This chowder should be thick and creamy, but if you find it too thick for your liking, just add a bit more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s all about making it perfect for your taste!
Hopefully, these FAQs help you make the most of your White Chicken Chili Chowder experience! Enjoy every slurp of this creamy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my White Chicken Chili Chowder, I love to make it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy! Here are some of my favorite ideas to elevate your chowder experience:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into that creamy goodness. I often grab a baguette or some sourdough—nothing beats that delightful crunch!
- Fresh Salad: Pair your chowder with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the chowder.
- Cheesy Quesadillas: If you want to take it up a notch, serve some cheesy quesadillas on the side! Just fill tortillas with cheese and any leftover veggies, then grill them until golden and melty. Yum!
- Toppings Galore: Make your chowder even more exciting with toppings! Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar) adds creaminess, while diced avocado brings a rich, buttery flavor. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that pop of color!
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, set out some hot sauce or jalapeño slices. It’s a fun way for everyone to customize their bowls to their liking!
With these serving suggestions, your White Chicken Chili Chowder will shine as the star of the meal, leaving everyone happy and satisfied. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
White Chicken Chili Chowder: 7 Comforting Creamy Secrets
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and thick white chicken chili chowder with a blend of spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in chicken, white beans, corn, chili powder, and cumin.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: White Chicken Chili Chowder, creamy chowder, thick chili