On cold nights, Mama used to keep a big Dutch oven bubbling on the stove, filling the air with something creamy and spicy. That cozy scent? It’s back all thanks to this white chili recipe that’s gone viral on TikTok and Pinterest. It’s hearty, uses frozen chicken or sausage, and comes together in under an hour.
This comforting, creamy white chili features tender poultry or sausage, sweet corn, and a silky base that brings cozy nostalgia with every spoonful. Whether you’re using pantry staples or freezer finds, this recipe is weeknight magic.
Snowy-day dinners with my grandma meant soup simmering and cornbread baking. That’s how I learned that cozy doesn’t need to mean complicated. I tested a twist by adding Alfredo sauce it lends rich flavor without overpowering the dish. Trust me, it’s the creamy secret you didn’t know you needed.
Why You’ll Love This White Chili
Let me tell youthis is cozy comfort at its best. You’ll love this white chili for so many reasons:
- Quick and Flexible: It’s ready in under an hour, and you can use either frozen chicken or mild sausage whatever’s on hand.
- Rich and Creamy: A dash of Alfredo sauce creates an indulgent, velvety texture that warms you right up.
- Pantry-Friendly: With broth, corn, and canned ingredients, chances are, you’ve already got what you need in your kitchen.
- No Beans: Perfect if you’re skipping traditional beans or add some for extra protein.
This is the kind of recipe that brings back snowy nights, warm kitchens, and the joy of simple, satisfying foodwhether you’re cooking for yourself or for a table full of smiling faces.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
The beauty of this white chili lies in its balance of simplicity and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and how you can customize it:

| Ingredient | Purpose | Possible Swaps |
|---|---|---|
| Mild sausage or frozen chicken | Adds hearty protein to the dish | Ground turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based sausage |
| Chicken broth | Forms the savory liquid base | Vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version |
| Alfredo sauce | Brings a creamy texture and rich flavor | Half-and-half with garlic powder or cream cheese stirred in near the end |
| Corn | Adds natural sweetness and a slight crunch | Use canned, frozen, or fresh corn kernels |
Pro Tip: Brands don’t matter hereuse your favorites or what’s on hand. Just avoid overly sweet cream sauces to keep it savory.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How It Works
This white chili is incredibly easy to bring together. Follow these simple steps for a comforting bowl every time:
- Prepare your protein: If using sausage, break it up and brown in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat for 8–10 minutes. If using frozen chicken breasts or thighs, simmer in broth until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F), then shred using two forks.
- Create the creamy base: Stir in Alfredo sauce and chicken broth. Let it combine and warm through over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, whisking occasionally.
- Add the sweetness: Mix in corn (drain well if using canned; no need to thaw if using frozen) for extra texture and balance.
- Simmer and finish: Let the mixture gently simmer for about 15 minutes to marry the flavors. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: Try topping it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped green onions. Serve with warm cornbread or crackers for added crunch.
| Step | Action | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cook sausage or simmer and shred chicken | 8–10 minutes |
| 2 | Add Alfredo sauce and broth | 2–3 minutes |
| 3 | Add corn and let it simmer | 15 minutes |
Tips, Tweaks, and Serving Suggestions
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Customize it with these easy tweaks:
- Want more spice? Add a dash of cayenne, chili flakes, or diced green chiles during the simmer.
- Lighter option: Swap in plain Greek yogurt at the end instead of Alfredojust stir it in off heat to avoid curdling.
- Boost nutrition: Add chopped fresh spinach, kale, or zucchini near the end of cooking they cook quickly and add vibrant color and nutrients.
Keep your pairing simple. A slice of crusty bread or cornbread goes perfectly, and a crisp side salad adds freshness. This chili only gets better the next day, which brings us to…
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep white chili stores and reheats beautifully:
| Storage Method | How Long It Lasts | Reheat Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. |
Tip: Store in single-serve containers for grab-and-go lunches during the week, or freeze extra portions for future cozy nights.
Expert Insight: The Appeal of White Chili
White chili stands out for its creamy texture and lighter flavor profile. While traditional red chili can be bold and spicy, white chili lets ingredients like shredded chicken, broth, and herbs shine. Adding mild heat through spices like cumin and green chiles gives it nuance without overpowering the palate. It’s comfort food you can feel good about.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Finding the Comfort in Cozy Healthy Recipes
This cozy and nourishing white chili recipe didn’t happen overnight. It took several test batches and some tweaks like adjusting the simmer time and mixing up the right cream base to get it just right. There really is something special about discovering that perfect bowl after a day of trial and error. Let this recipe inspire you to slow down and savor simple, cozy food.
FAQs ( The BEST White Chicken Chili recipe )
What makes this the world’s best white chicken chili?
This award-winning white chicken chili recipe combines perfectly seasoned tender chicken with creamy white beans and a rich, flavorful broth. The secret lies in the perfect balance of spices, including cumin, oregano, and green chiles that create layers of flavor without overwhelming heat. It’s hearty enough to satisfy any appetite while maintaining that comforting, home-cooked taste that keeps families coming back for seconds.
Can I make white chicken chili with frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can make delicious white chicken chili with frozen chicken, just allow extra cooking time for the chicken to thaw and cook through properly. Add the frozen chicken directly to the pot and increase the initial cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before shredding or cutting the chicken for the chili.
Can I make white chicken chili without beans?
Yes, you can definitely make white chicken chili without beans for a lower-carb version or to accommodate dietary preferences. Simply omit the white beans and add extra chicken or vegetables like diced zucchini, cauliflower, or bell peppers to maintain the hearty texture. You might want to add a bit more broth or cream to keep the consistency perfect.
Can I add sausage to white chicken chili?
Adding sausage to white chicken chili creates an incredibly flavorful and hearty variation that many people love. Use mild Italian sausage or chicken sausage, browning it first before adding the other ingredients. The combination of chicken and sausage adds extra protein and a rich, savory depth that makes this chili even more satisfying and delicious.
How long does white chicken chili last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored white chicken chili will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating and reheat thoroughly to 165°F before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze white chicken chili for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion
This white chili recipe is exactly what you need for a cozy night inquick to make, easy to customize, and packed with comfort. Whether you opt for shredded chicken or mild sausage, the creamy Alfredo base wraps every bite in warmth and flavor.
Add your spin by tossing in greens or dialing up the heat. This dish also makes a great freezer meal for busy weeks ahead. Just don’t forget the crusty breadit really brings everything together.
Try it out and tag your creations I’d love to hear your cozy memories or kitchen experiments. Maybe this becomes one of your new family comfort foods, too.

Delicious White Chili Sausage Recipe: Best Ever
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth to the pot.
- Season with cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- For a milder chili, use mild Italian sausage and reduce chili powder. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.










