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Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili (Stovetop or Slow Cooker)

Close-up of a creamy white chicken chili with shredded chicken and white beans in a ceramic bowl.
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Make this easy, creamy white chicken chili for a comforting, healthy weeknight dinner. This recipe uses simple ingredients and works well on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. If using the stovetop method, heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. If using a slow cooker, skip this step and place raw chicken directly into the slow cooker.
  2. Add chopped onion to the pot (or slow cooker) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. If using the stovetop, add chicken broth, rinsed beans, and green chilies to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
  4. If using the slow cooker, add chicken broth, rinsed beans, and green chilies to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
  5. Remove the cooked chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot or slow cooker.
  6. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until it melts completely and the chili thickens. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
  7. Heat through for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a quick meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; add it during Step 6.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, mash about 1/2 cup of the white beans against the side of the pot before adding the cream cheese.
  • Serve this healthy chicken chili with toppings like shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chefsily.com/easy-creamy-white-chicken-chili-recipe/