Description
Warm, hearty, and ultra-comforting, this Creamy Chicken Chili is a must-have recipe for cozy nights. Made with tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a luscious, flavorful broth, this dish is rich without being heavy. It’s easy to prep, packed with protein, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
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Ingredients
For the Chili:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium yellow onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp chili powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (mild or spicy)
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2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (like cannellini or great northern)
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1½ cups frozen corn (or canned, drained)
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (for added creaminess)
Optional Toppings:
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Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Sliced jalapeños
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Avocado slices
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Crushed tortilla chips or strips
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Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Chicken & Spices
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Place whole chicken breasts or thighs into the pot.
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Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
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Stir to coat the chicken in spices.
Step 3: Build the Chili Base
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Pour in chicken broth, green chilies, white beans, and corn.
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Stir well to combine.
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Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
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Remove the cooked chicken from the pot.
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Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
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Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
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Stir in cubed cream cheese and Greek yogurt (or sour cream).
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Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the broth is creamy.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
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Ladle chili into bowls.
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Top with your favorite garnishes—shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, or tortilla chips.
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Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Notes
Use Thighs for Juiciness – Chicken thighs stay moist and tender in soups.
Don’t Boil the Dairy – Keep heat low when adding cream cheese and yogurt to prevent curdling.
Control the Spice – Choose mild green chilies or add jalapeños if you want heat.
Add Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach or chopped bell peppers for more nutrition.
Make It Thicker – Mash some beans or add a cornstarch slurry if you like it extra thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American Southwestern