Easy White Chicken Chili

Easy White Chicken Chili
Welcome back to my kitchen! Today, I’m making a comforting and flavorful White Chicken Chili—a creamy, protein-packed twist on traditional chili that’s perfect for cozy nights and easy weeknight dinners. Made with tender shredded chicken, cannellini beans, green chilies, and a rich, seasoned broth, this one-pot meal is both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this simple and satisfying recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large 7–8-quart Dutch oven, over medium heat. When the pan is hot and the oil is shimmering, add in the diced onions and peppers. Cook 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently until softened.
- Add in the coriander, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes more.
- Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minutes while stirring.
- Next, add in the corn, beans, enchilada sauce and chicken broth. Stir till combined. Bring the chili up to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer for 25 minutes. Stir in the chicken and heat through (just about 1 minute). Serve and enjoy!
- Note: I like to serve with tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese (your favorite), avocado (slices or guacamole), cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Video
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Let us know how it was!What makes this an Easy White Chicken Chili?
White chicken chili is a chili-style stew built around white meat and white beans with a lighter-colored broth instead of a tomato-forward red chili. Shredded chicken and cannellini beans form a creamy, protein-forward base, while green enchilada sauce and the dried spices create the chile-like savory profile.
Ingredient notes: what each main ingredient brings to the pot
- Green enchilada sauce — provides tangy, savory tomatillo and green-chile flavor and acts as a primary seasoning liquid that distinguishes this chili from tomato-based versions.
- Cannellini beans — mild and creamy, they add body and protein while holding their shape in the simmered broth.
- Poblano peppers — offer a mild, slightly smoky vegetal note; softening them in the pan reduces raw edge and contributes mellow flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken — pre-cooked, shredded chicken shortens prep and is added at the end to warm through without additional cooking time.
- Corn — a touch of sweetness and a firm texture contrast that complements the beans and broth.
Why the suggested toppings work
- Cilantro — adds a bright, herbal lift that contrasts the savory broth.
- Sour cream — provides cooling creaminess against the warm spices.
- Shredded cheese — melts into the bowl for richness and a silky texture contrast.
- Avocado or guacamole — offers creamy fat that softens heat and adds a fresh mouthfeel.
- Lime wedges — a squeeze of lime brightens and lifts the overall flavor.
- Tortilla chips — crunchy chips add a textural contrast for scooping or crumbling on top
Watch Dr. J Make White Chicken Chili
Watch Dr. J make White Chicken Chili and see how it comes together.
