Quick Creamy White Chicken Chili | High Protein Meal (Print Version)
Creamy White Chicken Chili is a quick, high-protein meal. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Protein & Aromatics
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained
06 -
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
→ Chili Foundation
07 -
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 -
2 (15 oz) cans Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
09 -
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
10 -
1 tsp chili powder
11 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
12 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Velvety Finish
13 -
4 oz light cream cheese, softened
14 -
1/2 cup milk (2% or whole)
→ Fresh Zest & Garnish
15 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
16 -
1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Dice 1 medium yellow onion, mince 3 cloves garlic, and seed/mince 1 jalapeño (if using). Cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This initial prep sets the stage for your delicious Creamy White Chicken Chili | Quick High Protein Meal.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in diced onion, minced garlic, 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens.
03 -
Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and add 2 (15 oz) cans Great Northern beans (rinsed and drained). Stir in 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
04 -
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Season your Creamy White Chicken Chili | Quick High Protein Meal generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
05 -
Add 4 oz light cream cheese (softened) and 1/2 cup milk (2% or whole) to the chili. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, velvety texture. Continue to gently simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
06 -
Ladle the warm Creamy White Chicken Chili | Quick High Protein Meal into bowls. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, and serve with lime wedges for a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy this satisfying and quick high-protein meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For an even quicker meal, use 2 cups of pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast. Add it in Step 4 with the spices.
02 -
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Elevate your chili with toppings like shredded Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
04 -
Ensure your light cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the chili; this helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Can opener
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 421 kcal
Total Fat: 12 g
Total Carbohydrate: 40 g
Protein: 40 g