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Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

5.2 from 29 reviews

This hearty Cajun White Chicken Chili combines tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and a blend of bold Cajun spices for a flavorful twist on traditional chili. Enhanced with cream cheese and heavy cream for richness, and balanced with fresh lime juice and cilantro, this comforting dish is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Beans

  • 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 cups white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed if canned
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy and Garnish

  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, coating evenly for robust flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest briefly. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Cook over medium heat until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth, add the white beans, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer with Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  7. Add Cream Cheese and Cream: Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until both have melted into the chili and it has a smooth, creamy texture.
  8. Brighten with Lime: Add lime juice and stir to enhance the flavors with a fresh, citrusy note.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, additional jalapeño slices if desired, or a wedge of lime for extra zest.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, leave the jalapeño seeds or add an extra jalapeño.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer longer to reduce liquid or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
  • Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful chicken.
  • This recipe can be made in a slow cooker by searing the chicken first, then combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 4-6 hours.
  • Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken chili, white chicken chili, creamy chili, comfort food, spicy chicken recipe