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When you’re craving something hearty yet bright, this cozy white chicken chili is the perfect solution. It’s rich, satisfying, and filled with roasted peppers, tender chicken, and just enough spice to keep you coming back for more. Warm up after a busy day or set a crowd-pleasing pot on the table—this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 (4-ounce) can fire-roasted green chiles
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until it turns translucent—this usually takes about five minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and chili powder, letting them sizzle for a minute to bloom their fragrant flavors.

Next, add the shredded chicken, roasted green chiles, chicken broth, and cannellini beans. Stir everything together, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
For that signature creamy texture, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or a dash of chili powder if you like an extra kick. Let the chili simmer for just a few more minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and thickened to your preference.
To serve, ladle the white chicken chili into large bowls and top it off with fresh garnishes: chopped cilantro for a pop of color, shredded cheese for extra creaminess, or sliced jalapeños if you enjoy a bit of heat.

This white chicken chili is perfect for anyone seeking a comforting, protein-packed bowl without the heaviness of a traditional tomato-based chili. The velvety broth and hearty beans are deliciously balanced by the smoky bite of fire-roasted chiles. If you prefer leaner meals, use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also swap in leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey for an easy twist. However you enjoy it, this crowd-pleasing chili will warm you up while keeping mealtime fuss-free.