Creamy & Quick Stovetop White Chicken Chili: Your 30-Minute Weeknight Favorite
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and delicious White Chicken Chili. It’s a culinary masterpiece that is wonderfully creamy, satisfyingly hearty, and brimming with vibrant flavors from zesty green chilies, a thoughtful blend of warm spices, and succulent, tender chicken. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s one of those essential stovetop recipes that radiates enough warmth and coziness to make it perfect for chilly autumn evenings, yet it’s light and refreshing enough to be savored any time of year. If you’re already a fan of my incredibly popular Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili, then get ready to be utterly captivated by this faster, more convenient stovetop version. It delivers all the rich flavor you love in a fraction of the time, making it an instant classic for busy weeknights.
👉 Complement this chili with my One Hour Dinner Rolls for a truly comforting meal, or explore my Creamy Ham and Potato Casserole for another hearty option next!
This stovetop White Chicken Chili stands out as a triumph of flavor and efficiency. It’s incredibly creamy, packed with delightful nuances, and remarkably quick to prepare, coming together in just 30 minutes. Crafted with tender chicken, wholesome white beans, a kick from diced green chilies, and a symphony of aromatic spices, this chili is the epitome of a cozy, budget-friendly, and effortlessly perfect meal for any weeknight. Its balanced profile makes it a family favorite that you’ll want to add to your regular rotation, offering warmth and satisfaction without the long wait.
💰This versatile and cost-effective recipe is proudly featured as part of our specially curated 5 Cheap but Delicious Fall Dinners Under $10 meal plan, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to break the bank.
Step-by-Step Recipe Video
Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili
This stovetop White Chicken Chili isn’t just another recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking a fast, flavor-packed, and supremely satisfying meal. As one of my absolute fastest weeknight dinners, it consistently delivers a comforting experience without demanding hours in the kitchen. The secret to its incredible appeal lies in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes: the beans provide a wonderfully hearty foundation, making each spoonful substantial and fulfilling. The diced green chilies introduce a subtle, yet invigorating kick, awakening your palate without overwhelming it. And the touch of cream? It’s the magic ingredient that ties all these elements together, infusing the chili with a luxurious smoothness and a comforting richness that makes it utterly irresistible.
My family absolutely adores this chili, especially when it’s generously topped with freshly shredded cheese and a squeeze of bright lime juice, which adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the rich flavors. Beyond the rave reviews from my loved ones, what truly makes me love this recipe is its sheer efficiency: it’s ready in just half an hour, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when time is short but the desire for a homemade, wholesome meal is strong. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary.
Recipe at a Glance
⏰ Total Time: Just 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for your busiest days.
🍂 Perfect For: The ultimate solution for quick weeknight dinners, cozy fall gatherings, or any time you crave comforting food.
🛒 Key Ingredients: Lean chicken, creamy white beans, mild green chilies, and a blend of aromatic spices form the heart of this dish.
🍽️ Servings: Generously serves 5, making it ideal for families or for enjoying delicious leftovers.
🥄 Skill Level: Extremely Easy – even beginner cooks can achieve fantastic results with this straightforward recipe.
🧊 Storage: Stores beautifully! It refrigerates wonderfully for up to 3 days and freezes exceptionally well for future meals, lasting up to 2 months.
👉 For a completely hands-off approach to this beloved dish, be sure to try my equally delicious Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili.
Made With Love,
What You’ll Need for The Best White Chicken Chili
Crafting the perfect White Chicken Chili starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the chili’s signature creamy texture and complex flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this recipe:
- Olive oil: This forms the essential base for sautéing our aromatics. A good quality olive oil will infuse your chili with a subtle, fruity undertone and ensures your onions and garlic cook perfectly.
- Onion & garlic: These two foundational ingredients are non-negotiable. When gently sautéed, they create a rich, savory, and aromatic base that is crucial for building the chili’s depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Chili powder, cumin, oregano: This trio of warm spices is what gives the chili its characteristic depth and inviting aroma. Chili powder brings a mild heat and earthy notes, cumin adds a distinctive savory warmth, and oregano introduces a classic herbaceous touch. Sautéing them briefly with the aromatics unlocks their full flavor potential.
- White beans (Great Northern or Cannellini): The heroes of creaminess and substance! These beans not only make the chili incredibly hearty and filling but also contribute to its velvety texture without needing excessive dairy. They’re also an excellent, budget-friendly source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Chicken: Cooked and diced chicken is the star protein. To save precious time, I highly recommend using leftover cooked chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. This shortcut ensures your chili is on the table even faster. If cooking from scratch, chicken breasts are a lean and tender choice.
- Corn: While optional, a cup of sweet corn kernels adds a delightful burst of sweetness and a pleasing textural contrast to the creamy chili. It brightens the dish and makes it even more appealing.
- Diced green chilies (canned): These mild yet flavorful chilies are essential for that classic white chili taste. They provide a gentle, tangy heat and a distinct green pepper flavor that is central to the dish’s identity.
- Chicken broth: The liquid foundation of our chili. Good quality chicken broth (or even homemade stock) ensures a rich and savory base, marrying all the flavors together beautifully.
- Butter + flour (for a roux): This simple combination creates a quick “roux” that naturally thickens the chili, giving it a luxurious body without relying on heavy creams from the start. It’s a classic technique for achieving that perfect, comforting consistency.
- Whipping cream: Added at the very end, just a touch of whipping cream elevates the chili to its truly “creamy” status. It softens the flavors, adds a velvety mouthfeel, and brings a delightful richness.
- Salt & pepper: The indispensable seasonings that bring all the other flavors into focus. Always adjust to your taste preferences throughout the cooking process.
👉 For another hearty and comforting bowl, you might also love my robust Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup.
Full Ingredients List
Here’s the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements to ensure your White Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every single time. Gathering all your components before you begin will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 3 (15 oz) cans great white northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 3–4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced (or equivalent rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup corn kernels, optional (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup whipping cream (heavy cream also works)
- For topping: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice
🔒 The printable recipe card below includes the full ingredient list and exact amounts in a convenient format — perfect for saving to your digital cookbook or printing for later reference!
How to Make The Best White Chicken Chili
Crafting this flavorful stovetop White Chicken Chili is surprisingly simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to create a hearty and creamy meal that your family will adore in just 30 minutes.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by warming the olive oil in a large, heavy saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them, stirring frequently, for about 7 minutes until the onions become translucent and soft, and the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavor of your chili.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices. Once the aromatics are tender, stir in the chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Continue to cook for just 1 more minute, stirring constantly. This brief sautéing step, known as “blooming” the spices, intensifies their flavors and infuses them deeply into the olive oil, creating a rich and aromatic base for your chili.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili Base. Next, add the drained and rinsed white beans, diced cooked chicken, corn (if using), the can of diced green chilies (including their liquid for extra flavor), chicken broth, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the saucepan. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then partially cover the pot and allow it to cook for 10 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the ingredients to warm through.
Step 4: Thicken the Chili. While the chili simmers, prepare your thickener. In a small bowl, use a fork to blend together the softened butter and flour until a smooth paste (a beurre manié) forms. Add this butter-flour mixture directly to the simmering chili and stir continuously until the chili begins to thicken, which should take approximately 1 minute. The chili should achieve a nice, hearty consistency. Taste the chili and season with more salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference. If the chili becomes too thick, you can thin it with a splash more chicken broth.
Step 5: Add Cream & Serve. Finally, remove the chili from the heat and stir in the whipping cream until it is fully incorporated and the chili achieves a beautifully creamy consistency. Serve the White Chicken Chili hot, garnished generously with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, fresh chopped cilantro, or a vibrant squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy this comforting and quick meal!
🔒 Remember, the full step-by-step instructions are also conveniently available in the printable recipe card below — don’t forget to save it for later when you’re ready to cook!
Delicious White Chicken Chili Variations
While this recipe is fantastic as written, it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Chicken Swap: For ultimate convenience, easily swap cooked chicken breasts for a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it as directed to save significant prep time. Alternatively, if you prefer a different texture, use ground chicken or ground turkey. Brown it with the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe before adding the spices.
- Cream-Free Option: For a lighter, brothier version that’s still bursting with flavor, you can completely skip the whipping cream. The chili will still be wonderfully savory and comforting, just with a thinner consistency.
- Spice It Up: If you love a little extra heat, it’s easy to make this chili spicier. Add finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the onions and garlic, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices. For a bolder kick, opt for a can of hot diced green chilies instead of mild. A dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end also works wonders!
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and texture by incorporating other vegetables. Diced bell peppers (especially red or yellow for sweetness), zucchini, or even finely chopped carrots can be added with the onions.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little heat, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses for a richer topping.
- Bean Alternatives: Great Northern beans are traditional, but cannellini beans or even a mix of different white beans would also work well, each lending a slightly different texture.
👉 Want the absolute easiest, most hands-off version? You absolutely must try my popular Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili for those days you need dinner to cook itself.
My Pro TipS
Tips & Tricks for The Best White Chicken Chili
Achieving restaurant-quality flavor in your homemade White Chicken Chili is easier than you think with these expert tips and tricks:
- Sautéing the spices with onion and garlic helps release flavor: This isn’t just a casual step; it’s fundamental. Briefly cooking the chili powder, cumin, and oregano in oil with the aromatics (before adding liquids) “blooms” the spices. This process unlocks their essential oils, intensifying their flavor and aroma and distributing them evenly throughout the chili. Don’t skip or rush this minute!
- Mash some of the beans before adding for extra creaminess: For an even richer and thicker texture without adding more dairy, take about a half cup of the drained white beans and mash them with a fork or potato masher before adding them to the pot. These mashed beans will dissolve slightly as the chili simmers, adding a natural creaminess and body to the dish.
- Add toppings like tortilla chips for crunch: While shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime are traditional, don’t underestimate the power of texture! Crumbled tortilla chips or even a few crispy fried onions can add a fantastic crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chili’s creamy consistency. Avocado slices also add a lovely creaminess and freshness.
- This reheats beautifully — perfect for meal prep: White Chicken Chili is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight. Store it in individual portions for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency, as it can thicken in the fridge.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: If you’re cooking fresh chicken for this recipe, ensure it’s cooked through but still tender. Overcooked chicken can become dry and stringy, which will detract from the chili’s overall texture.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Since chicken broth and canned beans can vary in sodium content, it’s always best to add salt incrementally. Taste as you go, especially after the chili has simmered for a bit and the flavors have concentrated.
Recipe FAQs – The Best White Chicken Chili
Got questions about making this delicious White Chicken Chili? Here are answers to some common queries to help you master this recipe.
Absolutely, using canned chicken is a great time-saving hack for this recipe! Just make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the chili at the same step you would add cooked chicken breasts. It will integrate seamlessly and still deliver fantastic flavor.
Yes, this White Chicken Chili is an excellent make-ahead meal! Prepare it entirely, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or warm it in the microwave. You might need to add a small splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out if it’s become too thick.
Yes, this chili freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for future quick meals! Once cooked, allow the chili to cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
As written, this White Chicken Chili is quite mild, offering just a hint of warmth from the green chilies and chili powder, making it family-friendly. However, if you prefer more heat, it’s very easy to customize! You can add finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use hot diced green chilies. Stirring in a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot salsa at the end also provides a quick boost of spice.
👉 If you’re a fan of cozy and comforting soups, be sure to check out my curated collection of 15 Cozy Slow Cooker Soups to Make This Fall.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
This White Chicken Chili is not only fantastic fresh, but it’s also a dream for meal prep and future enjoyment. Here’s how to handle it:
- Fridge Storage: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and become even more delicious after a day or two!
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, allow the chili to cool completely. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. You can freeze individual portions for quick meals. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Instructions:
* From the fridge: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water if the chili has thickened too much during storage.
* From the freezer: Thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat using the stovetop or microwave instructions above.
👉 For more inspiration on budget-friendly and freezer-friendly meals, explore my list of Cheap Family Meals Under $10.
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The Best White Chicken Chili
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Print Recipe
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl (for blending butter and flour)
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven (for cooking the chili)
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 3 15- oz cans great white northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 3-4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels, optional
- 1 can diced green chilies, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup whipping cream
- shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for topping
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté, stirring often, for about 7 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices. Then, stir in the white beans, cooked chicken, corn (if using), undrained diced green chilies, chicken broth, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, partially cover the pot, and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a small bowl, blend together the softened butter and all-purpose flour until a smooth paste forms. Add this mixture to the simmering chili and stir continuously until the chili thickens, which should take approximately 1 minute. Taste and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. If the chili becomes too thick for your preference, thin it with a little more chicken broth.
- Remove the chili from the heat and stir in the whipping cream until it is fully incorporated and the chili is wonderfully creamy. Serve hot, topped generously with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.