Cajun White Chicken Chili
If youโre looking for a hearty, flavor-packed dish that warms you from the inside out, Cajun White Chicken Chili is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and zesty Cajun spices for a one-of-a-kind chili experience. Itโs comfort food at its finest with a spicy Southern twist!
I first stumbled upon the idea of blending Cajun flavors with chili during a cozy winter evening when my husband was craving something spicy and satisfying. I decided to experiment with Cajun seasoning, white beans, and shredded chicken, and the result was pure magic. My family loves this dish so much that it has become a staple during football season and holiday gatherings. Itโs one of those meals that brings everyone to the table with excitement!
Why Youโll Love Cajun White Chicken Chili
โขBold Cajun Flavor: Perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices for a zesty kick.
โขCreamy Comfort: The blend of white beans and cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture.
โขSimple Ingredients: Easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh chicken make this dish quick and approachable.
โขVersatile: Great for weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or meal prepping.
Ingredients Notes For Cajun White Chicken Chili
โขChicken: Use cooked shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
โขWhite Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans provide a creamy base.
โขCajun Seasoning: Adds the signature bold flavorโadjust to your spice tolerance.
โขCream Cheese: Blends into the chili for a luscious texture.
โขChicken Broth: Balances the flavors and ensures the chili isnโt too thick.
โขVeggies: Onions, bell peppers, and jalapeรฑos enhance the Cajun profile.
Recipe Steps
1.Sautรฉ Veggies: Heat oil in a large pot and sautรฉ diced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeรฑos until softened.
2.Add Spices: Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook until fragrant.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
3.Combine Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, white beans, chicken broth, and cream cheese. Stir well.
4.Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5.Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage Options
โขRefrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
โขFreeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.
โขReheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
โขSpice Level: Add more jalapeรฑos or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
โขBeans: Swap white beans with chickpeas or black beans for variety.
โขDairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
โขVegetarian: Replace chicken with diced tofu or extra beans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream cheese during the last 30 minutes.
Q: Can I use raw chicken?
Absolutely. Add raw chicken breasts or thighs directly to the pot, simmer until fully cooked, then shred before serving.
Q: Whatโs the best topping for Cajun White Chicken Chili?
Try toppings like shredded cheddar, avocado slices, green onions, or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
Cajun White Chicken Chili
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook PrintIngredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra spice
- 1 can 15 oz great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz corn kernels, drained
- 1 can 4 oz diced green chilies
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sautรฉ Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sautรฉ for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the beans, corn, green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chili is creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or over rice.