Name: Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 2 cans white beans; 1 block cream cheese (8 oz); 1 can green chilies (4 oz); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

When cold weather rolls in and you’re craving something that hugs your insides, Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight is exactly what you need. This dish combines the coziness of chili with the silky richness of cream cheese, resulting in a bowl of pure comfort. It’s hearty without being too heavy, and it packs a gentle kick that warms you up without setting your mouth on fire.

Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy chili checks all the boxes. It uses pantry staples, comes together in one pot, and tastes even better the next day. Plus, the creamy base makes it extra indulgent, like a cross between your favorite soup and a cheesy casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight

This isn’t your average chili. The cream cheese adds a smooth, luscious texture that balances beautifully with tender shredded chicken and hearty white beans. It’s also versatile—you can make it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or even in the Instant Pot. And if you’re a fan of easy cleanup, this one-pot wonder will become a regular in your rotation.

What Makes This White Chicken Chili Different?

The magic is in the cream cheese. Instead of a tomato-based broth, this version leans into velvety textures and a mild, savory depth. The cream cheese not only thickens the chili but adds an irresistible tang that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Plus, it pairs incredibly well with green chilies, cumin, and just a hint of garlic.

Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight

This chili is all about layering flavor with simple, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it to life:

Chicken breasts – These are the protein heart of the dish, becoming tender and easy to shred.
White beans – A creamy, hearty base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Cream cheese – The star of the show, lending a rich and velvety texture.
Green chilies – Add a gentle heat and a layer of Southwestern flair.
Chicken broth – Keeps everything simmering together and enhances the savory depth.
Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
Garlic – A flavor booster that enhances every bite.
Cumin – Delivers warm, earthy tones that define chili flavor.
Oregano – Adds a herbal brightness that balances the richness.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to bring it all together.

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight (1)

How To Make the Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Add in the chicken breasts, white beans, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Shred

Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Cut the cream cheese into cubes and stir it into the chili until completely melted and incorporated. Let the mixture simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the creamy chili into bowls and serve hot. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Chili

This recipe comfortably feeds four to six people, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or small gatherings. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad.

For leftovers, store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave, and some even say it tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

If you want to freeze it, skip adding the cream cheese until you reheat it. Freeze the base in containers for up to 3 months, then stir in cream cheese after thawing and warming it up.

What to Serve With Creamy White Chicken Chili?

Crusty Garlic Bread

The soft center and crisp crust are ideal for dipping into this creamy chili.

Jalapeño Cornbread

Spicy, sweet, and soft—cornbread complements the heat and richness.

Avocado Lime Salad

A light and tangy side that balances the chili’s creamy profile.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Great for crunch and color on the table, plus who doesn’t love a scoopable side?

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory, spiced flavors.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Serve a scoop right in the bowl to make it a hearty chili rice bowl.

Pickled Red Onions

A tangy topping that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Shredded Cheese and Sour Cream

Because more creamy, cheesy goodness is never a bad idea.

Want More Cozy Soup and Chili Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy White Chicken Chili, here are some other cozy favorites worth checking out:

Cajun Potato Soup with its spicy kick and hearty potatoes.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a Tex-Mex comfort twist.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli that brings homey goodness to your dinner table.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup with its vibrant Thai flavors and creamy finish.
Creamy Cajun Linguine if you’re looking to turn up the heat with pasta.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a bit more spice or top it with something special? I love hearing your takes on these cozy favorites.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting and comfort meal recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next crave-worthy dish!

Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese Delight is a bowl of comfort you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cozying up on a winter night or looking for a simple dinner with wow-factor, this chili delivers every time. Rich, creamy, and filled with flavor—it’s everything you want in a comforting meal, with the bonus of being incredibly easy to pull off.