Southwest White Chicken Chili recipe
Warm up your weeknight dinner routine with this Southwest White Chicken Chili, a quick and hearty dish ready in just 30 minutes. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy cannellini beans, making every spoonful a flavorful delight.
This comforting chili is enhanced with a touch of cumin and chili powder, giving it a subtle kick without overpowering its creamy richness. The addition of sweet corn adds a delightful crunch that perfectly balances the dish’s texture.
Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe requires minimal prep and uses pantry-friendly ingredients. Top it off with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for a satisfying finish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Southwest White Chicken Chili Ingredients: A Flavorsome Blend
Chicken Breast: The heart of this chili, offering tender, protein-packed bites that absorb the spices, adding a succulent texture to each spoonful.
Chili Powder & Cumin: These bold spices bring warmth and depth, giving the dish its signature Southwestern flair with a smoky, earthy kick.
White Kidney Beans: Creamy and hearty, they add a satisfying richness, balancing the chili’s bold flavors while providing a smooth, velvety texture.
Green Bell Pepper: Fresh and slightly sweet, it brings a crisp contrast that complements the spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret to a luscious, creamy base that melds all the ingredients together into a comforting, cohesive dish.
Southwest White Chicken Chili: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Spices for Maximum Flavor
The chili powder and cumin are key to giving this Southwest White Chicken Chili its signature warmth and depth. For the best results, make sure your spices are fresh, as they tend to lose potency over time. If your chili powder is over six months old, consider replacing it with a new batch. The freshness will intensify the flavors, creating a richer and more aromatic base that brings out the best in the chicken and beans. - Adjust the Consistency to Your Preference
This recipe is versatile when it comes to consistency. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of water slightly or let the chili simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. For a soupier texture, add an additional ¼ to ½ cup of water or even chicken broth, which will also enhance the overall flavor. Taste and adjust as you go, ensuring a perfect texture that matches your preference. - Elevate with Fresh Toppings
While the recipe suggests a sprinkle of Cheddar cheese, you can elevate your chili further with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. These add-ons not only bring a pop of color but also introduce creamy, herbaceous notes that contrast beautifully with the chili’s spice. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving can also brighten up the dish, making it even more vibrant and refreshing.
What to Serve with Southwest White Chicken Chili
- Warm Cornbread
Cornbread pairs perfectly with Southwest White Chicken Chili, offering a slightly sweet and crumbly side that contrasts the chili’s rich, savory flavors. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting addition that can be used to soak up every last bit of chili. - Simple Green Salad
A crisp green salad is an excellent way to balance the heartiness of this chili. Toss together some fresh greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing, crunchy element to the meal. It complements the chili without overwhelming the palate. - Tortilla Chips and Salsa
For a more casual approach, serve the chili with a side of tortilla chips and your favorite salsa or guacamole. The chips add a delightful crunch, and they can even be used to scoop up the chili. This combination is ideal for game days or a relaxed family dinner.
FAQ
- Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the saucepan along with the beans and corn. Since it’s already cooked, you can reduce the cooking time in step one by about 5 minutes. - Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with additional beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for a plant-based protein boost. Replace the cream of chicken soup with a creamy plant-based alternative or a thick vegetable broth to maintain a rich texture. - Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. Sauté the chicken, onion, and bell pepper in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the flavors meld. - How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the chili as it heats.
Southwest White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 4 4-ounce skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper diced
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 15-ounce cans white kidney beans (cannellini), rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups frozen whole kernel corn
- 1 10.5-ounce can Campbell’s condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup water
- 2 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Warm the vegetable oil in a 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Sprinkle in the chili powder and ground cumin. Sauté the mixture, stirring frequently, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the vegetables become tender.
- Integrate the white kidney beans, frozen corn, condensed cream of chicken soup, and water into the saucepan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the chili has reached the desired consistency, sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish.
