If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out, this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender shredded chicken mingling perfectly with creamy cannellini beans and a subtle kick from jalapeño and green chilies, every spoonful delivers a beautiful balance of spice, creaminess, and hearty goodness. This recipe is approachable for any home cook and comes together quickly, making it a go-to dinner that feels both special and homey.

A close-up view of a creamy soup served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, filled with visible layers of shredded chicken, large white beans, and bright yellow corn kernels. The soup has a light orange creamy broth with bits of chopped green peppers mixed throughout. On top, there are four slices of fresh green avocado on one side and several uneven pieces of light yellow tortilla chips spread on another part of the soup, adding texture and color contrast. A black spoon with a gold handle is placed inside the bowl, partially submerged in the soup. In the background, there is a blurred bowl of cauliflower. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack tons of flavor. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building layers of spice, adding texture, or bringing creaminess to the dish.

Yellow onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and aromatic base after sautéing, setting a savory foundation.
Jalapeño, chopped: Provides a gentle heat that brightens the chili without overpowering it.
Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the aromatics and boosting richness.
Garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth that perfumes the whole dish.
Low sodium chicken broth (2 cans, about 3½ cups): Creates a flavorful, but not too salty, cooking liquid essential for the chili’s broth.
Mild green chilies (2 cans): Infuse a mellow, tangy flavor that complements the jalapeño heat beautifully.
Spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, cracked pepper): These seasonings build the complex, smoky, and savory backbone of the chili.
Cannellini beans (1 can): Creamy and tender, they add body and a lovely texture contrast.
Cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken (1½–2 lbs): The star protein that keeps the chili hearty and satisfying.
Sour cream: Adds a luscious creaminess and slight tang to soften the spices.
Milk: Helps thin out the chili to a perfect stew-like consistency without losing flavor.
Corn kernels (optional): A sweet pop of texture that makes each bite even more interesting.

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and jalapeño, then sauté until softened and fragrant—about 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This step creates a savory and aromatic base that’s absolutely essential for building flavor.

Step 2: Add Broth and Spices

Pour in the chicken broth and canned green chilies. Then mix in the cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and cracked pepper. Bring everything just to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes so all the spices can mingle and the flavors deepen nicely.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans, Sour Cream, and Chicken

Once the broth has simmered, drain and rinse the cannellini beans, then stir them into the chili. Gently mix in the sour cream, allowing it to melt and create that creamy texture we love. Add in the shredded cooked chicken, then pour in the milk last. Stir well and let the mixture come back to a gentle simmer to marry all the rich flavors.

Step 4: Final Touches

If you decide to include corn kernels, incorporate them now and let them heat through with the chili. After that, your white bean chicken chili is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed!

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate the white bean chicken chili recipe experience, garnishes are key. Try a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, some freshly chopped cilantro for brightness, or a few crispy tortilla strips to add crunch. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the entire bowl beautifully.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or crusty bread that’s perfect for soaking up every delicious drop. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, and if you want heartier sides, consider serving with Mexican rice or even avocado slices for richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this chili in individual bread bowls makes for a cozy, fun presentation that’s sure to impress. You can also turn leftovers into a hearty chili-topped baked potato or use it as a filling for soft tacos or burritos. The possibilities to enjoy this white bean chicken chili recipe are truly endless and perfect for keeping dinner exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili tastes even better the next day, so storing leftovers properly is ideal. Transfer any unused chili into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, giving you a quick and delicious meal ready to heat whenever you want.

Freezing

You can freeze the white bean chicken chili recipe for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags, leaving space for expansion. When frozen, this chili makes a fantastic, convenient meal for busy weeks.

Reheating

Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly without curdling the sour cream. You may want to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up if it’s too thick after freezing. Alternatively, use your microwave, reheating in short bursts and stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of beans for this chili?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional here, great substitutes include great northern beans or navy beans. Just be sure to rinse canned beans well before adding to keep the flavors clean and fresh.

Is there a way to make this chili spicier?

Yes! Add more jalapeño or swap mild green chilies for a hotter variety. You could also sprinkle in cayenne pepper or red chili flakes during the spice stage to boost the heat safely without losing balance.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can swap sour cream for cream cheese for a richer, thicker consistency or use Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option. Just add carefully towards the end of cooking to keep the texture smooth.

Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Sauté the aromatics as directed, then combine all ingredients except the sour cream and milk in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in sour cream and milk at the end and warm through before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your chicken broth and canned ingredients do not contain gluten additives. It’s a safe and comforting option for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites to make whenever I want dinner that feels cozy, nourishing, and just a little bit special. It’s incredibly versatile, packed with flavor, and simple enough to whip up on any weeknight. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every warm, delicious bite.