Cozy nights are just around the corner, and there’s no better way to warm up than with a bowl of creamy white chili. This comforting dish is perfect for snuggling up on the couch with family and friends, and our collection of 20 creamy white chili recipes has something for everyone.
From classic chicken and bean combinations to bold and spicy twists featuring green chiles and chorizo, we’ve rounded up the best white chili recipes that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for a slow-cooked Sunday supper or a quick weeknight meal, these creamy and delicious chilies are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll dive into our top 20 picks for creamy white chili recipes, including vegan and gluten-free options, as well as creative twists featuring sweet potatoes and cannellini beans. So grab your favorite chili fixings and get ready to cozy up with a bowl of goodness!
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a hint of spice, this slow cooker chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Spicy White Bean Turkey Chili
This hearty, one-pot dish combines the flavors of tender turkey, creamy white beans, and a kick of heat from diced jalapeños. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and jalapeño; cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy White Corn and Chicken Chili
This comforting chili is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy goodness, making it a great option for a cozy night in. With its rich flavor profile and velvety texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups frozen white corn kernels
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the corn kernels, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Instant Pot White Chili with Green Chiles
A deliciously spicy and comforting recipe perfect for a chilly day. This Instant Pot white chili is easy to make and packed with flavor, featuring tender chicken, creamy beans, and a kick from green chiles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup half-and-half
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 green chiles, chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button and heat the Instant Pot until hot.
2. Add chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beans, broth, half-and-half, and chopped green chiles; stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 10-12 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vegan White Chili with Cauliflower
This creamy white chili recipe is a game-changer for vegan comfort food lovers! By using cauliflower to add depth and texture, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy alternative to traditional chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup cashew cream (see note)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in cashew cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Note: To make cashew cream, soak 1/2 cup of cashews in water for 4 hours. Blend with 1/4 cup water until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy White Chili with Sausage
This hearty chili recipe combines the flavors of sausage, onions, and cheese with a creamy white base, perfect for a cozy night in. A twist on traditional chili, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, half-and-half, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chili with Hatch Green Chile
This creamy white chili recipe gets a bold boost from the fiery flavor of Hatch green chile peppers. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this delicious and satisfying dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups white beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (4 oz) Hatch green chile peppers, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: heavy cream or sour cream for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, chicken, beans, broth, Hatch green chile peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, with optional dollops of heavy cream or sour cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky White Chili with Bacon
This hearty chili recipe combines tender ground beef, smoky bacon, and creamy white beans for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the grease behind. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Chili with Quinoa and Kale
This creamy white chili recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground turkey or chicken breast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chopped kale leaves
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add ground turkey or chicken breast and cook until browned.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add white kidney beans, cooked quinoa, and chopped kale leaves. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until kale is tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Milk White Chili
This creamy white chili recipe combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and rich coconut milk, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the canned tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
White Chili with Roasted Poblano Peppers
This creamy and slightly smoky white chili recipe gets a boost from roasted poblano peppers, adding depth and complexity to the classic dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups roasted poblano peppers (see note), chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté chicken, onions, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add roasted poblano peppers, diced tomatoes, white beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in half-and-half or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
White Chili with Ground Turkey
This hearty and comforting white chili is a twist on traditional chili recipes. Made with ground turkey, cannellini beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, half-and-half, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chili with Butternut Squash
This creamy white chili with butternut squash is a perfect comfort food dish for chilly days. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add roasted squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Chili with Cannellini Beans
This hearty white chili is a twist on traditional beef-based chilies, featuring tender cannellini beans and a rich, creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Chili with Cilantro Lime Crema
This creamy and flavorful white chili is a twist on the classic, featuring tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a tangy cilantro lime crema. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is tender.
6. Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Chili with Avocado and Lime
This refreshing twist on traditional chili combines the comfort of white beans with the brightness of lime and the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and Great Northern beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chili has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in diced avocado and lime juice.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Chili with Cornbread Dumplings
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and crispy cornbread dumplings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of cornbread mix (plus ingredients listed below)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is browned.
2. Add white beans, chicken broth, half-and-half, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with egg and water.
5. Drop spoonfuls of cornbread mixture into the chili pot, leaving space between each dumpling.
6. Cover the pot and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
White Chili with Sweet Potatoes
This hearty, creamy chili is a twist on traditional white chili, with the added sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast sweet potato cubes for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and roasted sweet potatoes. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
White Chili with Chorizo and White Beans
This hearty chili is a perfect blend of Spanish flavors, with the spicy kick from chorizo sausage and the creamy texture from white beans. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return the chorizo sausage to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Chili with Greek Yogurt Topping
A creamy and comforting twist on traditional chili, this white chili recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, topped with Greek yogurt and optional jalapenos or hot sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 creamy white chili recipes! From classic chicken and turkey chilies to vegan and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked white chicken chili, spicy white bean turkey chili, or creamy corn and chicken chili. Or, go bold with smoky bacon and chorizo variations. For a twist, add roasted poblano peppers, butternut squash, or cannellini beans to your pot. And don’t forget the toppings – from cilantro lime crema to Greek yogurt and avocado. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and classic or adventurous and new, these recipes have got you covered!
