Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Warm up your taste buds with this creamy white chicken chili that’s perfect for any cozy night in. With tender chicken, hearty beans, and a rich blend of spices, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s comfort in a bowl.
The combination of green chiles, sour cream, and heavy cream gives this chili a velvety texture and a mild, tangy kick that’ll have you coming back for seconds. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers incredible flavor without all the fuss.
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this white chicken chili is sure to impress. Just be warned—there won’t be any leftovers!
Creamy White Chicken Chili: Ingredients Spotlight
Chicken Breast: Lean, tender chicken breast provides the hearty base for this creamy chili, absorbing the vibrant flavors of spices and chiles.
Great Northern Beans: These creamy, mild beans add substance and texture, balancing the richness of the chili with their smooth, buttery bite.
Green Chiles: A touch of mild heat, these chiles infuse the chili with a subtle kick, adding a layer of warmth without overwhelming the dish.
Sour Cream & Heavy Whipping Cream: These key ingredients create the luxurious, creamy consistency that sets this chili apart, adding a smooth, velvety finish.
Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that build the savory foundation of the dish, adding depth and richness with every spoonful.
Recipe Tips for Creamy White Chicken Chili
1. Sauté for Maximum Flavor: When cooking the chicken, onions, and garlic, take your time to achieve a golden-brown sear. This step builds a rich foundation for the chili, creating deeper, more complex flavors. The caramelization of the onions and garlic releases natural sweetness, while browning the chicken locks in its juices, making every bite more succulent. For best results, use medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning.
2. Adjust the Spice Level to Taste: The green chiles and cayenne pepper give this chili its signature warmth, but you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne or opt for mild green chiles. On the other hand, spice lovers can add an extra pinch of cayenne or even toss in a few chopped jalapeños. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—customize it to match your preference.
3. Let the Flavors Marry: After adding the beans, chicken broth, and spices, allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This slow simmering process lets all the flavors meld together, creating a deeper and more balanced taste. If time permits, extend the simmering time to 45 minutes for an even richer flavor profile. The longer it cooks, the more the spices and aromatics infuse the broth, resulting in a heartier and more delicious chili.
What to Serve with Creamy White Chicken Chili
1. Warm Cornbread: Pair your creamy white chicken chili with a side of warm, buttery cornbread. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread perfectly balances the rich and savory flavors of the chili. A drizzle of honey over the cornbread adds an extra touch of sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with each spoonful of chili.
2. Fresh Avocado Slices: Add a touch of freshness with ripe avocado slices. The creamy avocado complements the rich texture of the chili, adding a cool, refreshing bite. Top each bowl with a few slices, a sprinkle of lime juice, and some chopped cilantro for a vibrant and colorful garnish that enhances the dish’s flavors.
3. Tortilla Chips: Serve your chili with a side of crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. Use them for dipping or crumble them directly into the chili for an added texture. The saltiness of the chips balances the chili’s creamy and spicy notes, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors.
FAQ: Creamy White Chicken Chili
1. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply sauté the chicken, onions, and garlic as directed, then transfer them along with the remaining ingredients (except the sour cream and whipping cream) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the creams before serving.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a great alternative to chicken breasts. They have a slightly richer flavor and stay tender during the cooking process. Just cut them into ½-inch pieces like the recipe suggests and follow the same cooking instructions.
4. How can I make this chili thicker?
To thicken the chili, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the chili before adding the creams. This creates a thicker, creamier texture without needing additional ingredients.
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans 15.5 ounces each great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can 14.5 ounces chicken broth
- 2 cans 4 ounces each chopped green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all necessary ingredients.
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, with no pink remaining and the juices run clear, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Mix in the drained beans, chicken broth, chopped green chiles, salt, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for around 30 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and blend in the sour cream and heavy whipping cream until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Serve the chili while it’s hot and enjoy the delightful creaminess of each bite.
