Name: Southwest White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southwest
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for heat); 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (4 oz / 113 g) diced green chilies; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp salt (more to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

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Get ready to fall in love with Southwest White Chicken Chili – the ultimate creamy comfort food upgrade for any night of the week! This dish packs a punch of flavor from green chilies, smoky spices, and velvety white beans, crowned with juicy shredded chicken and a dreamy swirl of cheese and sour cream. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day, chasing away the chill on a frosty evening, or just wanting a quick and filling family dinner, Southwest White Chicken Chili delivers on taste, texture, and true Southwest soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Southwest White Chicken Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Southwest White Chicken Chili is that each ingredient pulls double-duty, lending its unique personality to the pot. You don’t need a crowded pantry — just a few basics that, when mingled together, create pure flavor magic. Let’s break down why each one is absolutely essential!

Olive oil: Helps everything get golden and draws out the natural sweetness in your aromatics.
Onion: Diced onion is the flavor foundation, giving depth and savoriness to every bite.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic brings warmth and undeniable aromatic goodness.
Jalapeño (optional): Adds a gentle kick that you can adjust for your ideal level of heat.
White beans: Creamy, hearty, and the perfect canvas for all those vibrant Southwest spices.
Diced green chilies: These little bites bring tanginess and a hint of smokiness for true Southwest flair.
Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie is a time-saver and soaks up every bit of flavor while staying juicy.
Chicken broth: Rounds out the chili’s base and keeps everything lusciously stew-like.
Ground cumin: Adds earthy, warm undertones that are signature to any Southwest recipe.
Chili powder: Lends a gentle heat and beautiful color—you can’t have chili without it!
Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness that makes the flavors pop.
Oregano: Delivers a fresh herbal note that balances the richness, so don’t skip it.
Salt: Essential for bringing all those flavors to life—taste as you go.
Black pepper: Adds depth and just a hint of welcome bite.
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Makes the chili extra creamy, with a slight tang that brightens everything up.
Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese: Melts into silky richness, and Pepper Jack gives an extra spicy edge.
Lime juice: A squeeze at the end brings all the ingredients into sharp, delicious focus.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped greens for that bold finishing burst of freshness.

How to Make Southwest White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat your olive oil in a big, cozy pot over medium heat. Toss in the onion, garlic, and jalapeño (if you’re embracing the heat), and sauté until everything looks soft and smells downright irresistible. This five-minute process is how you build the deep, savory base Southwest White Chicken Chili is known for.

Step 2: Layer in the Good Stuff

Stir in the white beans, green chilies, shredded chicken, and chicken broth. The mix will sizzle a little, and you’ll instantly see all those gorgeous colors and textures coming together. This is where the heartiness of the chili begins to shine—you’ll notice it looking extra inviting already!

Step 3: Spice It Up

Now, sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good stir so those spices can mingle and infuse the chili with their signature warmth and zest. Bring your pot up to a cheerful simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring every once in a while.

Step 4: Creamy Magic

Once everything is cozy and simmered through, lower the heat a bit and stir in the sour cream along with your cheese. Watch as the chili transforms into a beautifully creamy, rich one-pot wonder. This moment is what gives Southwest White Chicken Chili its crave-worthy finish.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Off the heat, squeeze in the juice of a fresh lime for that final zing of brightness. Sprinkle over a generous handful of cilantro and, if you’re anything like me, add a little more cheese. Now it’s ready to serve—hot, fragrant, and topped with all your favorite extras.

How to Serve Southwest White Chicken Chili

Garnishes

Garnishes truly take your bowl of Southwest White Chicken Chili from weeknight staple to restaurant-worthy. A scattering of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese elevates both the look and the flavor. Don’t forget sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or even crunchy tortilla strips for that signature Southwest crunch!

Side Dishes

This chili is incredibly hearty, but pairing it with the right sides makes for a true feast. Serve it with warm cornbread or fluffy rice to soak up all that savory broth. A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette or a basket of tortilla chips for dipping turns your Southwest White Chicken Chili into a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch up your presentation by ladling the chili into small bread bowls for a fun twist, or spoon it over baked sweet potatoes for a nutritious new spin. Feeling festive? Serve in mini cups as chili shooters during parties, letting guests customize their toppings. Southwest White Chicken Chili is as versatile as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, Southwest White Chicken Chili stays fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks.

Freezing

Southwest White Chicken Chili freezes beautifully! Just pour cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion, and it’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and you’ll have a delicious, fuss-free meal whenever you need it.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chili over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until hot and creamy again. You can also use the microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring between rounds to keep the texture silky. Add a splash of broth if it’s gotten a bit thick, and refresh with a sprinkle of cilantro before serving.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Southwest White Chicken Chili is the perfect use for leftover turkey—just shred it and swap it in for the chicken. The flavors will still be just as vibrant and comforting.

How can I make this chili spicier?

If you love heat, keep the seeds in your jalapeño, add extra chili powder, or sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne while it simmers. For extra zing, try some Pepper Jack cheese or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Is Southwest White Chicken Chili gluten-free?

Yes! As written, all of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten. Always double-check your broth and spices, but most brands are safe.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

You sure can—swap the chicken for extra beans or canned jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The spice blend and creamy finish will keep the flavors rich and satisfying.

What’s the best way to thicken the chili?

For a thicker Southwest White Chicken Chili, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot or let the chili simmer uncovered a bit longer. A little extra cheese or a spoonful of cornmeal can also do the trick!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried Southwest White Chicken Chili, it’s sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s adaptable, satisfying, and bursting with lively flavors. Cozy up with a bowl soon, and get ready for rave reviews from everyone around your table!