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A quick and creamy white chicken chili that can be made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot. Seasoned with cumin, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne, it’s packed with Great Northern beans, corn, and finished with sour cream and heavy cream for a rich, comforting soup.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
White chicken chili blends traditional Tex‑Mexican chili flavors with creamy dairy elements, a style that became popular in the American Southwest during the late 20th century as home cooks sought milder, protein‑rich soups for cooler weather.
Some regions add roasted green chilies, others incorporate pinto beans or hominy. In New Mexico, it’s common to finish with a drizzle of chile‑infused oil, while in Texas many recipes include diced ham or bacon for extra smokiness.
It is often served hot with corn chips, warm cornbread, or over a bed of rice. A garnish of fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream is typical.
White chicken chili is a popular comfort dish for fall and winter gatherings, game‑day parties, and family pot‑lucks because it can be made in large batches and stays warm for hours.
Traditional ingredients include chicken breast, Great Northern beans, corn, green chilies, cumin, smoked paprika, and dairy (sour cream and heavy cream). Substitutes can be turkey breast, cannellini beans, canned corn, fresh jalapeños, chili powder, and half‑and‑half.
Serve it alongside Mexican street‑style corn (elote), a fresh avocado salad, grilled quesadillas, or a side of cilantro‑lime rice for a complete meal.
Common errors include over‑cooking the chicken during sauté, forgetting to deglaze which can cause a burn notice, and adding the dairy too early causing curdling. Follow the step‑by‑step timing and add cream only after pressure cooking.
The chicken and aromatics are already sautéed, so the brief pressure cook only ensures everything is heated through and the flavors meld without over‑cooking the chicken, keeping the texture tender.
Yes. Prepare up to step 5, cool, and freeze in airtight containers. When ready, thaw, pressure cook for 2 minutes, then stir in sour cream and heavy cream before serving.
The broth should be creamy off‑white, speckled with beans, corn, and green chilies. Chicken pieces should be tender, not shredded, and the soup should coat the spoon without being watery.
After the quick pressure release, the chicken should be fully cooked (no pink), the beans are soft, and the soup is hot throughout. A quick taste will confirm seasoning and creaminess.
The YouTube channel Tried Tested and True specializes in practical, family‑friendly recipes with a focus on quick, reliable meals that work in everyday kitchens, often featuring Instant Pot and one‑pot techniques.
Tried Tested and True emphasizes minimal prep, ingredient flexibility, and step‑by‑step clarity, often providing both stovetop and Instant Pot options, whereas many channels focus on elaborate techniques or niche cuisines.