Easy One-Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty dish that comes together effortlessly, and this Easy One-Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe does just that. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting, flavorsome meal is made in a single pot, highlighting convenience without sacrificing taste. Bursting with tender chicken, creamy beans, and the fragrant aroma of mild chilies, this chili is a truly delightful experience that appeals to all ages.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly autumn evening, and the family was craving something warm and fulfilling. My grandmother always raved about her chili recipe, but I wanted to give it a twist by making it in one pot. It quickly became a family favorite, especially when paired with a slice of homemade cornbread. To this day, it’s my go-to recipe when I want to cook something that brings back nostalgic family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The combination of spices adds depth to the broth, while the chicken is tender and juicy, making this dish both nutritious and comforting.
- One-Pot Convenience: Saves time and energy with minimal dishes to clean.
- Family-Friendly: Mild, but can be adjusted for spice lovers.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredients for this chili are simple and likely already in your pantry. If not, they are readily available at local grocery stores. Canned white beans provide creaminess without heavy cream, and rotisserie chicken can be used as a shortcut for a quick prep.
- Cannellini Beans: Substitute with other white beans if needed for a similar texture.
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless thighs for richer flavor.
- Green Chilies: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent. Add in cumin and coriander, and stir until the spices release their aroma.
Step 2
Add diced chicken breast to the pot, stirring frequently until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Step 3
Pour in chicken broth, followed by the beans and chilies. Bring this mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 15 minutes.
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Step 4
Reduce heat, cover, and let the chili simmers for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with garnishes such as cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese, depending on your preference.
Storage Options
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. This chili can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra beans or corn for texture.
- Spicy Twist: Include a small amount of chopped jalapeño for added heat.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a small amount of cream cheese at the end of cooking for a richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
This chili is perfect for serving at family gatherings or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Serve it on game day or during casual get-togethers for a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and fuss-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chili as instructed and store it in the refrigerator. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to marry.
What type of beans work best in this chili? While cannellini beans are preferred for their creamy texture, you can use great northern beans or navy beans as suitable alternatives.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier? To increase the spiciness level, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Ensure you adjust to taste, especially if serving children or guests with lower spice tolerance.
This easy, one-pot white chicken chili is simplicity and flavor at its best. It’s the kind of dish that warms your body and soul, leaving you satisfied and eager for seconds. Try it today, and make it a staple you’ll come back to time and again.

Easy One-Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans cannellini beans 15-ounce, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can diced green chiles 4-ounce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
- 1 lime juice of for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in cannellini beans, chicken broth, corn, green chiles, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.