Creamy Chicken Chili
Creamy Chicken Chili is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy textures, and a perfect blend of spices. Ideal for cozy weeknights or festive family dinners, this easy-to-make recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and simplicity in every bite.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast or thighs, diced
Beans and Vegetables
- 2 cups white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese or ½ cup sour cream
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, laying a flavorful foundation for the chili.
- Add Spices and Chicken: Sprinkle in ground cumin and chili powder, stirring to coat the onions and garlic evenly. Add diced chicken breast or thighs and cook until slightly browned and sealed, approximately 5-7 minutes, to enhance flavor through caramelization.
- Pour in Broth and Beans: Add the chicken broth, drained white beans, and diced green chilies. Stir gently, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and chicken to cook through.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese or sour cream until fully melted and combined, creating the signature creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Final Touches: Optionally, add fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors just before serving, enhancing the creamy chili with a fresh contrast.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor; cook and shred before adding creaminess.
- Don’t rush the simmering process to allow deeper flavors and better texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending without clumps.
- Adjust the chili thickness by adding broth to thin or simmering uncovered to thicken.
- Prep vegetables and measure spices ahead to speed up cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken chili, creamy chili, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, creamy chicken recipe, hearty chili