Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into making your Creamy White Chicken Chili!
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft, around 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Sauté for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced green chiles, corn, and Great Northern beans.
- Place the raw chicken breasts directly into the pot.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the softened cream cheese. Cook while stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
Creamy White Chicken Chili is perfect on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider serving this delightful chili with warm, crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, or jalapeños can add that extra flair. For an even heartier meal, pair it with a side salad or tortilla chips for some crunch. The possibilities are endless!
How to store
To keep your delicious chili fresh for later, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label and date your containers to keep track of your leftovers! When reheating, ensure it’s heated through to 165°F for safe consumption.
Pro chef tips
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm: This makes shredding easier and ensures the chicken absorbs more flavor from the soup.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat in your chili.
- Cream cheese alternatives: If you want a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese; it’ll still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories.
Creative twists
There are various ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Consider using ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for even easier preparation. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with diced sweet potatoes and add more beans. If you want to enhance the flavors, try different beans or introduce a smoky element by adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce!
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this chili?
The total time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just ensure that it’s cooked thoroughly. Fresh chicken will work beautifully in this recipe.
Is it safe to store leftovers?
Yes, as long as you refrigerate the chili within two hours of cooking and consume it within 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
By incorporating these tips, variations, and insights, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with this timeless and heartwarming Creamy White Chicken Chili! Enjoy every spoonful!
