If you are craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl, you are going to love this Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe. It blends tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, and creamy white beans in a subtly spiced broth that is rich and satisfying without being heavy. The combination of creamy textures and just the right kick from green chilies makes this chili an instant favorite for chilly evenings or when you need a simple but impressive dish on the table. Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor, showing you don’t need tons of complicated steps or ingredients to create something truly special.

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe is in its straightforward but perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color—from the earthy cumin and smoky chili powder to the creamy beans and fresh cilantro garnish.

Olive oil: Used to saute the onions and garlic, it adds a touch of fruitiness and richness.
Medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a mild aromatic base.
Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
Canned diced green chilies: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and brightness.
Ground cumin: Essential for that warm, earthy depth common in southwestern dishes.
Chili powder: Lends a subtle smoky complexity without overpowering.
Dried oregano: Gives a herby freshness to balance the spices.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the other flavors.
White beans (canned, drained, and rinsed): The creamy base and protein powerhouse of the chili.
Cooked shredded chicken: Adds hearty, tender texture and satisfying protein.
Frozen or canned corn: Brings sweet pops of color and flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chili moist with a savory, mild broth foundation.
Sour cream: Provides luscious creaminess and a slight tang.
Cream cheese, cubed: Melts smoothly for rich texture and adds a comforting creaminess.
Lime juice: Adds a fresh brightness to finish the chili perfectly.
Chopped fresh cilantro: A bright, herbal garnish that ties it all together beautifully.

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This foundational step unlocks the sweet and savory flavors that will carry through the entire chili.

Step 2: Build the Spice Base

Next, stir in the canned diced green chilies along with ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for about one minute, allowing the spices to toast lightly in the oil. This step deepens the aroma and infuses the chili with those classic southwestern notes that make the dish uniquely comforting yet lively.

Step 3: Add Beans, Chicken, Corn, and Broth

Now it’s time to add the white beans, shredded chicken, corn, and chicken broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes so all the flavors can meld together and the broth thickens slightly, creating a wonderful harmony of ingredients.

Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Elements

Reduce the heat to low and add sour cream and cubed cream cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the chili becomes luxuriously creamy. This step transforms the chili into a velvety delight that feels indulgent but remains perfectly balanced with the spices and fresh lime juice you’ll add next.

Step 5: Finish with Lime Juice and Cilantro

Once the chili is creamy and smooth, stir in the juice of half a lime to bring a bright, tangy contrast. Finish with some freshly chopped cilantro either stirred in or sprinkled on top at serving time for a burst of fresh herbal flavor and a pretty pop of green.

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe

Garnishes

To really make your bowl sing, top the chili with extra cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even some shredded cheese. A few crushed tortilla chips or sliced jalapeños can add a delightful crunch and extra heat if you want to spice things up. Each garnish brings a fresh new dimension to this already flavorful bowl.

Side Dishes

This creamy chili pairs beautifully with cornbread or warm flour tortillas for dipping. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness, or try some avocado slices on the side for extra creaminess and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chili in bread bowls to soak up every last drop, or layer it over rice for a heartier meal. You can also use it as a filling for baked potatoes or quesadillas for a tasty fusion dish. The creamy texture and balanced flavors lend themselves well to many creative presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe tastes even better the next day once the flavors have settled. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chili will thicken and intensify as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it becomes richer overnight.

Freezing

This chili freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the chili has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to maintain that creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this chili?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still providing tender, flavorful meat. Just shred it and add it directly to the chili during cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe is mildly spiced, perfect for most palates. If you like it hotter, you can add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to taste.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or even Greek yogurt for a different type of creaminess, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check your spice blends for additives.

What are good toppings to add to this chili?

Great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips for a mix of creamy, fresh, and crunchy textures.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe enough. It hits all the right notes between comforting creaminess, hearty protein, and just enough spice to keep things exciting. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to bring smiles and full bellies around your table. Go ahead and give this delicious recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite chili!

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn Recipe

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3.8 from 76 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Creamy White Chicken Chili with Corn is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy night in. Combining tender shredded chicken, white beans, sweet corn, and a blend of aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection and enriched with sour cream and cream cheese for a luscious texture. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, this gluten-free chili is an easy, satisfying main course that’s ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chili Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1½ cups frozen or canned corn
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Dairy and Garnishes

½ cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
Juice of ½ lime
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

Heat the Oil and Sauté Onion: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Combine Main Ingredients and Simmer: Add the drained white beans, shredded chicken, corn, and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add Creamy Elements: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream and the cubed cream cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cream cheese fully melts and the chili becomes creamy and smooth.
Finish and Serve: Stir in the juice of half a lime for a fresh tangy finish. Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.

Notes

For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño along with the onion while sautéing.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, convenient option.
Leftovers will thicken when refrigerated; add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the consistency.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American