Name: Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (14 oz.) cans low-sodium chicken broth, about 3.5 cups; 2 (4 oz.) cans diced green chiles; 1 (15 oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained; 2 (15 oz.) cans white beans (cannellini or great Northern beans), drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken, about 1 lb.; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish; A dollop of sour cream; Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, shredded; Tortilla strips; Sliced avocados; Sliced jalapenos

There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a bowl of this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe. It’s rich and velvety with tender chicken, gentle heat from the spices, and a lovely blend of beans and corn that just warms you up from the inside out.

The image shows a thick creamy soup with a yellow-orange color filled with corn kernels, white beans, shredded white meat pieces, and small green herb bits. A silver ladle lifts a scoop of the soup, highlighting all these ingredients mixed in a smooth, rich broth. The soup is in a round white bowl with a white marbled surface underneath, and there is soft, warm lighting that shows the creamy texture and the tiny pea-sized spices sprinkled throughout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I have to admit, I’ve made white chicken chili countless times now, and this version is hands down my favorite. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and light, fresh flavors — plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.

Balanced Creaminess: The trick of pureeing some of the chili before adding cream cheese gives it a luscious texture without being too heavy.
Flavor-Packed: A blend of cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne creates a subtle warmth that isn’t overpowering.
Versatile and Customizable: You can swap in fresh chicken, add more spice, or jazz it up with toppings to fit just how you like it.
Hearty but Light: With white beans and corn, it’s filling but still feels fresh and wholesome.

A white bowl filled with creamy light orange soup that has visible pieces of white beans, yellow corn, and small chunks of light beige chicken mixed throughout. On the left side of the bowl, there are golden crispy tortilla strips resting on slices of green avocado. In the center, there is a dollop of white sour cream topped with black specks of pepper, and beside it, a wedge of bright green lime partially embedded in the soup. The soup is sprinkled with small green herb pieces all over. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl towards the front. The bowl sits on a dark brown plate on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, two lime wedges and small bowls with white and orange contents are visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe plays a key role—from the savory broth to the cream cheese that melts right in, creating that dreamy texture. When you shop, fresh cilantro and good-quality canned goods will really elevate the dish.

Flat lay of a medium yellow onion diced into rough chunks, two whole uncracked garlic cloves, small white ceramic bowls each containing cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper, shredded rotisserie chicken pieces, fresh chopped cilantro sprigs, small white bowls with diced green chiles, whole kernel corn, drained white beans, cubed cream cheese, and bright lime wedges, sliced avocado fanned out, sliced fresh jalapenos, shredded Monterey Jack cheese piled neatly, and crisp golden tortilla strips arranged in a simple white ceramic bowl, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and a foundational flavor that softens as it cooks down.
Garlic: Just a couple cloves really boost the savory depth without taking over.
Chicken broth (low-sodium): Using low-sodium lets you control the saltiness and keeps the chili balanced.
Diced green chiles: They bring a mild heat and bright kick—I love the subtle zing they add.
Whole kernel corn: Adds a nice pop of sweetness that compliments the spice.
White beans (cannellini or great Northern): They provide a creamy texture and hearty body to the chili.
Cumin: The star of the spice mix, giving that warm, earthy backdrop flavor.
Chili powder, oregano, paprika, ground coriander, cayenne pepper: These spices layer up the chili’s flavor complexity and subtle heat.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing the dish together.
Cream cheese (softened): This is the secret to the “creamy” factor—it melts in and delivers a silky finish.
Shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken: Easy and flavorful protein you can prep ahead.
Lime juice: Adds the perfect bright acidity that balances richness.
Fresh cilantro: Infuses fresh herbaceous notes that just lift the whole bowl.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

This is one of those recipes where you can really make it your own. I often add jalapeños if I’m feeling adventurous or swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. You’ll enjoy discovering your favorite combinations.

Variation: I sometimes use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, but fresh poached chicken shredded by hand works just as great and feels fresher.
Spice Level: If you like it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit jalapeños; for more heat, add diced serranos or a pinch more chili powder.
Vegetarian Version: Skip chicken and double the beans for a cozy, meatless chili that’s just as satisfying.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics to Start

I begin by heating olive oil in my Dutch oven, then saute diced yellow onion until it's soft and sweet, usually 5-7 minutes. Just as the onions start to turn translucent, I add minced garlic and let it cook another 30 seconds—don't let it brown or it'll taste bitter. This builds the deep base flavor that carries through the whole chili.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Veggies

Next, I pour in the chicken broth and stir in diced green chiles, drained corn, and rinsed white beans. At this point, I sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper, along with salt and pepper. This mix of spices steals the show by layering warm, cozy flavors.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavor

Bring your pot to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows all those spices and ingredients to meld together. Don’t skip the simmer — it’s what makes the chili taste homemade and rich.

Step 4: Puree Some Chili for Creaminess

To get that signature creamy texture, I carefully ladle out about a cup of the chili and blend it using an immersion blender or food processor. Then I stir the smooth mixture right back into the pot. This step makes a noticeable difference - the chili thickens up beautifully without needing flour or cream.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Chicken

Once the chili is thickened, I toss in softened, cubed cream cheese and shredded chicken. Stir gently while you let the cream cheese melt completely, about 5 minutes, keeping the heat medium-low. The chili turns luxuriously creamy and the chicken warms through perfectly during this step.

Step 6: Brighten with Lime and Cilantro

Finally, a splash of fresh lime juice and some chopped cilantro go in. This lifts all the rich flavors with brightness and freshness. I let it simmer another few minutes before serving — the chili will thicken up even more as it rests, so it’s best enjoyed piping hot!

Top Tip

From personal experience, this recipe’s charm lies in balancing warmth and creaminess without letting the chili get too thick or too thin. Here are some nuggets I’ve learned along the way to help you nail it every time.

Softening cream cheese beforehand: It blends much more smoothly and melts evenly when it’s at room temperature.
Using an immersion blender carefully: Blend only a portion of the chili and avoid over-pureeing — you want some texture to remain.
Don’t rush the simmer: Simmering for the full 15 minutes lets flavors really develop — it makes all the difference.
Adjust seasoning after cream cheese: The cheese can mellow the spice, so taste toward the end and add salt, pepper, or lime juice accordingly.

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

white chicken chili - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping this chili with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess and tang. Shredded Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese adds a melty, spicy note. For crunch and texture, tortilla strips or sliced jalapeños make fantastic toppings. Avocado slices give a buttery contrast if you want something smoother.

Side Dishes

Some crusty cornbread or warm flour tortillas are my go-to sides, perfect for scooping up every last bite. A crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies balance the richness and keep things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing dinner, I like to set up a chili bar with bowls of different toppings laid out so guests can build their perfect bowl. Sometimes I serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I always let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation that can affect texture.

Freezing

I freeze extra batches in portioned freezer-safe containers—chili freezes like a charm and reheats well without losing its creamy consistency. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the cream cheese silky.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can brown the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients except the cream cheese and chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cream cheese and cooked chicken in the last 30 minutes to finish.

What can I substitute for cream cheese to make it lighter?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute for cream cheese to lighten up this chili. Stir in the yogurt at the end of cooking on low heat to prevent curdling. It adds creaminess with fewer calories.

Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?

While canned chicken can work in a pinch, I recommend using freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for better texture and flavor. Canned chicken tends to be drier and less flavorful.

How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust it?

This recipe has a mild to medium spice level from the green chiles and spices like cayenne. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne, using mild or hot diced chiles, or adding fresh jalapenos as a topping.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how simple ingredients, a little patience, and some thoughtful layering of flavors come together to make something really special. I hope you enjoy this chili as much as I do—it’s the perfect meal to cozy up with and share with friends or family. Go ahead, give it a try and make it your own!