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White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy soup featuring tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a blend of spices, all simmered until flavors meld. The dish has a smooth, hearty texture with a pale, inviting appearance, often garnished with fresh herbs for brightness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded preferably poached or roasted
  • 2 cans white beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp cumin ground
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1 cup sour cream for creaminess, optional
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust to preference
  • fresh cilantro cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat, then add chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for another minute until fragrant and slightly toasted, filling the kitchen with warm spices.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and white beans, letting the mixture simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
  5. Add the corn kernels and cook for another 5 minutes until the corn is tender and the chili has a creamy, hearty texture.
  6. Stir in the sour cream for added creaminess, then season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until blended and smooth.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
  8. Serve hot, accompanied by tortilla chips or crusty bread if desired, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic white chicken chili.

Notes

For extra depth, add a squeeze of lime or a dash of hot sauce just before serving. Make sure to shred the cooked chicken finely for the best texture. You can also prepare this chili ahead of time and reheat, allowing flavors to deepen.