Imagine a chilly evening with the air carrying the scent of cumin and roasted peppers. Instead of the usual tomato-based chili, this white chicken chili offers a creamy, spice-infused surprise. Its comforting warmth is perfect when you’re craving something different yet familiar.
This recipe skips the traditional reds for a milder, velvety broth that clings to chunks of tender chicken and tender white beans. It’s an unexpectedly uplifting dish, combining savory, smoky, and tangy notes in every spoonful. A bowl of this chili feels like a warm hug, with a little bit of ‘wow’ in every bite.

White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the cubed chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Add diced roasted peppers and minced garlic to the same pot, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. You should smell the garlic releasing its aroma, and the peppers turning slightly darker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to develop flavor. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken, white beans, and ground cumin to the simmering broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, gently bubbling, until the flavors meld and the broth thickens slightly. The mixture will turn creamy and velvety.
- Stir in the sour cream to add richness and a smooth texture to the broth. Mix well until fully combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed for flavor balance. Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve immediately.
Layered flavors and a comforting texture make this dish a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend gathering, it offers a thoughtful, hearty option that warms both body and soul.