What makes this white chicken chili recipe so easy to prepare?

This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, like canned beans, chicken broth, and basic seasonings. The recipe works perfectly on both stovetop and in a crockpot, giving you flexibility based on your schedule. With minimal prep work and one-pot cooking, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready with very little hands-on time. The ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, and the cooking method is straightforward enough for beginners.

Can I make this crockpot white chicken chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Crockpot White Chicken Chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months - just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd during busy weeknight dinners.

Is this white chili chicken recipe healthy and low in calories?

Yes, this White Chili Chicken Recipe is naturally healthy and can easily be made into a Low Fat White Chicken Chili with a few simple swaps. It's packed with lean protein from chicken breast, fiber from white beans, and plenty of vegetables. To make it even healthier, you can use low-sodium chicken broth, reduce or eliminate cheese, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and provides a balanced meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.

What is the difference between stovetop and crockpot cooking methods for this chili?

The Chili Recipe Stovetop method takes about 30-45 minutes and gives you more control over the cooking process, making it perfect when you need dinner quickly. The crockpot method takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, but requires virtually no monitoring once you add the ingredients. Both methods produce equally delicious results, but the crockpot version tends to have slightly more tender chicken and deeper flavors. Choose stovetop for quick weeknight meals and crockpot for busy days when you want to "set it and forget it."

What are the best toppings and sides to serve with white chicken chili?

Popular toppings include shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapenos for extra heat. Crushed tortilla chips or oyster crackers add a nice crunch, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors. For sides, cornbread, warm flour tortillas, or crusty bread are perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth. You can also serve it over rice or with a simple green salad for a complete, balanced meal.

Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe: Simple and Delicious Meal

Name: Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe: Simple and Delicious Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 lbs chicken breasts, raw (~3 large breasts); 4 cups chicken broth; 2 4oz cans green chiles; 1 can fire roasted tomatoes; 1 can corn, drained and rinsed; 1 lime, juiced; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (2%); Toppings: Greek yogurt, cilantro, cheddar cheese, jalapeno, lime, tortilla chips

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I made my easy white chicken chili recipe, it was a snowy Tuesday and I just needed warmth in a bowl. This stovetop recipe has been trending on TikTok and Pinterestand for good reason. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Contents show

This chili is creamy, light, and flavor-packedwith no tomato in sight. Imagine tender shredded chicken, mild green chiles, and hearty white beans. All from pantry staples you probably already have. Think of it as your favorite soup and stew having the coziest get-together. Full recipe details are just ahead!

I tested it three times this week in my small kitchen, stirring gently between taking blog photos. I first learned it from my grandma’s handwritten notebook, then modernized it with quicker steps and healthier ingredients. We love a comforting meal with a fresh twist. Don’t miss the secret ingredient I add for creaminess!

Why You’ll Love This Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

Cozy meets healthy: Creamy, hearty, and warming, without feeling heavyperfect for a guilt-free family meal.
Quick to make: Ready in under 40 minutes, so it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Pantry-friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have, like canned beans, green chiles, and chicken broth.
Customizable: Easy to tweak for more heat, dairy-free versions, or leftover chicken swaps.

Key Ingredients and Pantry Staples

This recipe comes together with basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients for unbeatable flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Labeled ingredients arranged for easy white chicken chili recipe including beans, green chiles, chicken, broth, and spices

Ingredient	What It Does
Chicken breasts	Provides lean protein and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when simmered.
White beans	Offer a hearty texture and plant-based fiber that fills you up.
Green chiles	Infuse subtle heat and smokiness, balancing the creaminess.
Chicken broth	Forms the base of the chili with savory, comforting flavor.
Greek yogurt	Adds rich, creamy texture with fewer calories than heavy cream.

Pro tip: Choose low-sodium broth and canned beans to better control the salt levels, especially if you plan on adding cheese or chips!

Step-by-Step: How to Make It

This easy white chicken chili recipe comes together in a single potminimal dishes, maximum comfort. Here’s how:

Sauté aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced yellow onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Build the base: Stir in 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Toast the spices for 1–2 minutes.
Combine ingredients: Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 cans of white beans (rinsed and drained), 1 can of diced green chiles, optional 1/2 cup fire-roasted tomatoes (drained), and 3 cups chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender.
Shred & finish: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the juice of 1 lime and 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt. Warm through and adjust salt to taste.

Shortcut: Using precooked or rotisserie chicken? Skip simmeringjust add the shredded chicken to the pot during the last 10 minutes to warm through.

Storage & Reheating Made Easy

Chili is one of those rare meals that somehow tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Storage Method	How To	How Long
Refrigerator	Let chili cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container.	Up to 4 days
Freezer	Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leave space for expansion.	Up to 3 months

To reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, or use the microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to thin it out.

Topping Ideas & Customizations

This is where your bowl gets personal! Mix and match from these topping ideas or swap ingredients to fit your needs:

Classic: Top with shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, extra Greek yogurt, and fresh lime juice.
Add texture: Sprinkle on crushed tortilla chips or thinly sliced jalapeños.
Diet-friendly swaps: Substitute cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken, or use coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt for a creamy base.

Ingredient	Swap This	For This
Chicken breasts	Precooked or rotisserie chicken	Add at the endno need to simmer.
Greek yogurt	Coconut cream or plant-based yogurt	Dairy-free alternative with creamy texture.
White beans	Chickpeas or cannellini beans	Still hearty and protein-rich.

Pro tip: Like more kick? Add an extra pinch of cayenne or serve with hot sauce on the side!

Expert Insight: The Appeal of Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

White chicken chili stands out for its protein-packed, fiber-rich profile, making it a satisfying and wholesome bowl of comfort. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a fast family dinner, its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a go-to. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly and flexibleperfect for home cooks of any level.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!

The Journey to My Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

This easy white chicken chili recipe went through several delicious experiments before hitting the sweet spot. I quickly learned that building flavor slowlywithout rushingwas essential. From my grandma’s old-fashioned notes to this quicker, lighter version, it’s become a family favorite on repeat. Every pot is like a warm hug.

FAQs ( Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe (Stovetop or Crockpot) )

Overhead view of a creamy bowl of easy white chicken chili with toppings for Pinterest

Conclusion

This easy white chicken chili recipe pulls together in under 40 minutesa creamy, comforting dish made for chilly nights. You’ll love the tender chicken and flavorful broth, elevated with just the right balance of spice and creaminess.

Make it your own by trying a dairy-free version, loading it with toppings, or serving with crusty bread. Leftovers? Even better! Keep them in the fridge and savor the flavors all week long. It’s no wonder this one’s gone viralit hits all the marks of comfort, convenience, and flavor.

Share your version or twists with uswhether it’s an old family addition or a fresh topping idea. Let this become your go-to cold-weather favorite, just like it did for us. Happy cooking!

EASY WHITE CHICKEN CHILI RECIPE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered

Thomas Baker

Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe: Simple and Delicious Meal

This easy white chicken chili recipe is a heart healthy white chicken chili that you can make on the stovetop or crockpot. Packed with tender chicken, white beans, and flavorful spices, this chili recipe stovetop is perfect for a cozy and nutritious meal ready in under 40 minutes.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 245

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp cayenne
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
2 lbs chicken breasts, raw (~3 large breasts)
4 cups chicken broth
2 4oz cans green chiles
1 can fire roasted tomatoes
1 can corn, drained and rinsed
1 lime, juiced
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (2%)
Toppings: Greek yogurt, cilantro, cheddar cheese, jalapeno, lime, tortilla chips

Method

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cayenne; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add raw chicken breasts to the pot and pour in chicken broth.
Stir in white beans, green chiles, fire roasted tomatoes, and corn.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
Remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks, then return shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in lime juice and Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Serve hot, topped with additional Greek yogurt, cilantro, cheddar cheese, jalapeno slices, lime wedges, and tortilla chips as desired.

Notes

For a slower cooking option, prepare in a crockpot by combining all ingredients except Greek yogurt and lime juice. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add Greek yogurt and lime juice just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.