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There’s something truly special about the warmth that fills your kitchen when making Mom’s White Chicken Chili. Inspired by the cozy family gatherings of my childhood, this dish combines creamy beans, tender rotisserie chicken, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. With the rich aroma wafting through the house, it beckons you to sit down, relax, and savor a moment away from the chaos of everyday life.

As the world spins faster, finding comfort in homemade meals is more important than ever. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something that feels indulgent yet doesn’t require hours of prep. Plus, with its customizable nature, you can easily adapt it to fit any dietary preference—whether that’s gluten-free, vegetarian, or just a little spicier!

So grab your slow cooker, and let’s transform those simple ingredients into a dish that packs flavor and warms the soul. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds—maybe even thirds—without a hint of guilt!

Why is Mom’s White Chicken Chili a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This chili wraps you in a delightful embrace, elevating your meal to something truly special on chilly nights.
Customizable Delight: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegetarian, this recipe adapts easily with ingredient swaps, making it perfect for every palate.
Slow Cooker Magic: Set it and forget it! Effortlessness is key with this slow cooker dish, giving you more time to unwind while it simmers.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will adore this comforting bowl of goodness, ensuring you make a lasting impression.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week—it reheats beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
A Cozy Tradition: Like Mom used to make, it evokes warmth and nostalgia, turning every bite into a cherished memory.

Mom’s White Chicken Chili Ingredients

For the Base
• Cannellini or Great Northern beans – Creamy base for the chili; ensure they’re drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium.
• Diced green chiles – Adds a mild kick and vibrant flavor; adjust quantity for desired spice level.
• Butter – Provides richness and depth of flavor for a delightful experience.
• White onion – Adds a sweet undertone when sautéed; dice finely for even cooking.
• Flour – Thickens the chili to a creamy texture without heaviness.
• Chicken broth – Essential for moisture and flavor; adjust for desired consistency.

For the Seasoning
• Ground cumin – Elevates the dish with warmth; enhance to suit personal taste.
• Sour cream – Optional but provides tanginess and creaminess; consider dairy-free alternatives for lactose sensitivities.
• Hot sauce – Optional addition for those who enjoy extra spice; use based on your heat tolerance.

For the Heartiness
• Shredded rotisserie chicken – Main ingredient for heartiness; can be substituted with turkey or tofu for variations.
• Monterey Jack cheese – Adds melty creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with dairy-free cheese for dietary needs.

How to Make Mom’s White Chicken Chili

Combine Base: In a 6-8 quart slow cooker, mix the drained beans and diced green chiles until well combined, creating a lovely base full of flavor.
Sauté Onion: Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat, then add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent, adding sweetness to the chili.
Thicken Mixture: Sprinkle flour over the softened onion and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until it thickens slightly and is lump-free.
Mix Together: Pour the thickened mixture into the slow cooker with the beans and chiles; stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Season and Add Chicken: Add ground cumin and shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly to spread the flavors throughout the dish.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
Finish: Just before serving, stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and sour cream. Add optional hot sauce for an extra kick based on your spice preference.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls, and enjoy it with crispy tortilla chips for added texture. For a faster method, simmer on the stovetop for 20-30 minutes until heated through.

Optional: Top with fresh cilantro for extra flavor and brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Mom’s White Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild as you customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Replace dairy ingredients with coconut milk and vegan cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture.
Extra Veggies: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for a boost of nutrition and delightful colors in every bowl.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who crave a little more heat in their chili.
Smoky Flavor: Stir in smoked paprika to deepen the flavors and add a wonderful smokiness that will tantalize your taste buds.
Protein Options: Swap out the rotisserie chicken for ground turkey or firm tofu, making this dish accessible for various dietary preferences.
Herb Finish: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to brighten the dish and add a fresh, herby aroma that lifts every bite.
Taco-Inspired: Mix in taco seasoning and top with avocado slices for a fun twist that brings exciting flavors reminiscent of taco night.
Lentil Power: For a vegetarian take, replace the chicken with cooked lentils for protein-packed goodness and a hearty texture.

Embrace the comforting essence of Mom’s White Chicken Chili while making it your very own!

How to Store and Freeze Mom’s White Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze leftovers in portions for up to 3 months; simply let them cool, then seal in freezer-safe bags, removing excess air.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth as needed.

Reheating: If the chili has thickened, stir in a bit more broth or water while reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

Expert Tips for Mom’s White Chicken Chili

• Prevent Lumps: Whisk slowly: Always whisk the chicken broth gradually into the flour mixture to prevent any lumps from forming.

• Flavor Adjustments: Season wisely: Start with a smaller amount of ground cumin and hot sauce, and adjust to your taste preferences as the chili cooks.

• Veggie Boost: Add texture: Consider incorporating diced zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for extra nutrition and a delightful texture in your Mom’s White Chicken Chili.

• Perfect Thickness: Adjust consistency: If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

• Storage Savvy: Leftovers made easy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.

• Customize Flavor: Spice it up: For those who enjoy a bold kick, feel free to mix in jalapeños or cayenne pepper to elevate the flavor profile in your chili.

Make Ahead Options

Making Mom’s White Chicken Chili can be a breeze with some thoughtful meal prep! You can prepare the base (beans, chiles, and thickened broth) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine these components in your slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, store the shredded rotisserie chicken separately and add it just before cooking to keep it tender. On the day you plan to serve, toss everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Just before serving, stir in the cheese and sour cream for that creamy finish. This approach definitely saves time and leaves you with a comforting meal ready whenever you are!

What to Serve with Mom’s White Chicken Chili?

Nothing complements a cozy bowl of chili quite like the perfect side.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: They add a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up your creamy chili without missing a drop of goodness.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb brings a burst of freshness and flavor, brightening the rich chili beautifully.
Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread has a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness, making every bite a delightful experience.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and a cool contrast to the chili’s heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile perfectly.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brings a zesty pop that elevates the flavors, making your chili even more irresistible.
Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, adding creaminess with a touch of protein.
Side Salad: A light, crunchy salad offers freshness and textural contrast, balancing the heartiness of the chili beautifully.
Ice-Cold Beer: A refreshing lager or pale ale pairs wonderfully with the chili’s warmth, enhancing the entire meal experience.
Homemade Salsa: Fresh salsa adds a zesty kick and extra depth, making for a delightful topping over your chili.
Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies, offering a rich dessert that pairs surprisingly well with savory chili.

Mom’s White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beans for the chili?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using cannellini or Great Northern beans. Make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove extra sodium, which really allows the creaminess to shine through in the final dish!

What’s the best way to store leftover chili?
Absolutely! Store your chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to keep it as fresh as possible. If you’re looking to store it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze Mom’s White Chicken Chili? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the chili cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. Be sure to remove excess air before sealing. It’s best to freeze in smaller portions so you can easily reheat just what you need!

What should I do if my chili is too thick after cooking?
If your chili ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes, and it should reach that perfect creamy consistency again.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour, and for a dairy-free variation, swap out the butter, cheese, and sour cream with coconut milk and vegan cream cheese. Always ask guests about their allergies before serving!

How can I customize the heat level of my chili?
You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of diced green chiles or adding hot sauce. For extra heat, consider mixing in jalapeños or cayenne pepper to personalize it to your taste preferences!