killer white chili Recipe

This killer white chili is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a bowl of pure, hearty bliss. Loaded with tender chicken, creamy beans, and a perfect blend of spices, this recipe brings warmth and excitement to every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this killer white chili never fails to impress with its rich texture and bold flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this killer white chili. Each component plays its part in building layers of flavor and creating the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and hearty goodness.

• Dry navy beans: These beans soak up all the delicious flavors and provide a creamy, hearty base.
• Chicken broth: Essential for cooking the beans and infusing the chili with savory depth.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics.
• Chicken breast, diced: The star protein, tender and juicy, making each bite satisfying.
• Minced garlic: Delivers a fragrant, savory punch.
• Diced onion: Brings sweetness and body to the chili.
• Diced celery: Offers a subtle, crisp undertone.
• Diced green chilies: Adds a gentle heat and a fresh zing.
• Cumin: Provides earthy warmth and depth.
• Dried oregano: Adds a layer of herbal brightness.
• White pepper: Gives a mild heat without overpowering.
• Black pepper: Enhances the overall spice and flavor complexity.
• Red pepper flakes: Elevates the chili with a touch of spicy kick.
• Can of corn (15.25 oz): Injects sweetness and a lovely bite contrast.
• Cream cheese: Melts gently into the chili, making it luxuriously creamy.

How to Make killer white chili

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by washing your dry navy beans thoroughly. Then cover them with water and soak overnight—this softens them to perfection and reduces cooking time. Drain them the next day, ready to absorb all those incredible chili flavors.

Step 2: Slow Cooker Base

Place the drained beans into a 5-quart slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. This will be your chili’s hearty foundation, simmering slowly to develop that deep, savory taste.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the diced chicken breast along with the garlic, onion, celery, green chilies, and all the spices except the cream cheese. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables have softened, releasing a beautiful blend of aromas.

Step 4: Combine and Deglaze

Transfer the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker. Use a splash of chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up every bit of flavor stuck to the bottom, and add that to the slow cooker as well. This step is a little secret that adds incredible depth to your killer white chili.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours. This slow simmer lets all the flavors marry beautifully, resulting in tender beans, juicy chicken, and a rich, flavorful broth.

Step 6: Add the Cream Cheese

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese. Allow it to melt slowly into the chili, making it silky and creamy without losing any of that fantastic chili flavor.

Step 7: Final Stir and Serve

Give your chili a thorough stir to incorporate everything evenly. This final touch ensures every spoonful has that luscious texture and balanced taste that defines this killer white chili.

How to Serve killer white chili

Garnishes

To elevate your killer white chili experience, top it off with freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. A few sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime can add an exciting burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this chili with warm cornbread, crusty bread rolls, or even tortilla chips for dipping. A light green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments for a perfectly balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the killer white chili in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel, or go bold by stuffing it into baked potatoes for a hearty twist. For a fun touch, use small cups topped with a garnish for a party-ready chili shooter station everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover killer white chili keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted flavor transfer.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing that killer flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems too thick after refrigeration, adding a splash of chicken broth or water helps restore the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dry navy beans?

Absolutely! While soaking and cooking dry navy beans imparts a richer flavor and creamier texture, canned beans can be a convenient shortcut. Just rinse and drain them well, then add them later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat thanks to the green chilies and red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes or choosing milder chilies if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Use a large pot and simmer the chili gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans and chicken are tender. Just keep an eye on liquid levels and adjust as needed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If cream cheese isn’t on hand or you want a lighter option, try sour cream or Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a similar creamy effect without overpowering the chili’s flavors.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, this killer white chili is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and verify that your canned ingredients do not contain any additives with gluten.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavor-packed dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, you simply must try this killer white chili. It’s a fantastic recipe to make ahead and enjoy any time you crave something hearty and delicious. Trust me, once you taste it, this chili will become one of your go-to favorites to share with friends and family again and again.

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