Name: Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles; 1 cup frozen corn (or 1 can, drained); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz cream cheese, cubed; Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, tortilla chips

Creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor, Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili is the ultimate cozy bowl for chilly nights. This version elevates the classic with cream cheese for richness, three types of beans for texture, and a kick of jalapeño to keep things exciting. Whether you’re serving it up for game day, a weeknight dinner, or freezing leftovers for later, this chili does it all.

What makes this recipe so special is its balance—creamy without being heavy, spicy without overpowering, and hearty without needing hours on the stove. One pot, bold flavor, and that melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese swirl make this a keeper.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Full-fat block cream cheese works best here. It melts smoothly into the chili, creating that luscious, velvety texture. Avoid the whipped or spreadable versions—they don’t have the same richness and can alter the consistency.

Ingredients for the Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili

Chicken breast or thighs – The hearty base of the chili; shredded after cooking for that perfect texture.

Cream cheese – Adds richness and a creamy body that sets this chili apart.

Chicken broth – Helps create the flavorful base that holds everything together.

Green chiles – Offer a mild heat and authentic Tex-Mex flair.

White beans (like cannellini) – Creamy and mild, they blend beautifully with the cheese and spices.

Black beans & kidney beans – For extra texture, flavor, and a protein punch.

Rotel tomatoes – Provide a zesty, slightly spicy tomato element.

Corn (frozen or canned) – Adds a pop of sweetness that balances the spice.

Cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder – Essential spices that bring warmth and depth.

Jalapeño & cilantro (optional) – For a fresh bite and vibrant finish.

How To Make the Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat some oil and sear the chicken breasts or thighs until golden. This adds depth to the flavor base.

Step 2: Simmer the Chili Base

Add the chicken broth, beans, Rotel, corn, green chiles, and seasonings. Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing everything to meld.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese

Cut the cream cheese into cubes and stir them into the chili until fully melted and creamy.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips.

Serving and Storing Your Chunky Chili

This chili is perfect straight from the pot, but it gets even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What to Serve With Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili?

Tortilla Chips

Crispy, salty, and perfect for dipping right into the bowl.

Jalapeño Cornbread

Adds a spicy-sweet kick and soaks up all that creamy broth.

Avocado Slices

Cool and buttery—a great contrast to the heat.

Pickled Red Onions

Add tang and crunch to every bite.

Lime Wedges

A quick squeeze brightens the entire bowl.

Simple Green Salad

Balance the richness with fresh greens and a zippy vinaigrette.

Cheddar Quesadillas

Cheesy and golden brown—ideal for dunking.

Want More Cozy Soup and Chili Ideas?

If you loved this Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili, here are more comforting favorites to try next:

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a cheesy, veggie-packed hug in a bowl.
Wendy’s Copycat Chili in the Slow Cooker if you love a classic beefy chili.
Tuscan Bean Soup loaded with fiber and Mediterranean flavor.
Creamy Spicy Rotel Dip for a bold, snackable twist.
Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso if you’re craving warm, gooey comfort.

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Tried it? I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it mellow? Maybe you topped it with crushed tortilla strips or a sprinkle of cotija?

Let’s swap ideas in the comments below—I love seeing how you make each dish your own.

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Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Need a cozy, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dinner in under an hour? This Chunky Cream Cheese White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings. With juicy chicken, white beans, a kick of green chiles, and the richness of cream cheese, this hearty bowl packs both flavor and warmth. It’s one of those easy recipes you’ll come back to again and again when you’re in need of quick dinner ideas, a healthyish snack, or a satisfying one-pot meal. Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad and you’ve got dinner done right.