When the first fall breeze rolls in and sweaters come out of hiding, there’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of the Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili Recipe to ease you into the season. If you’re like me—juggling work, errands, and trying to get something hearty on the table—this chili is the kind of kitchen hug we all need. It’s comforting, a bit spicy, totally satisfying, and honestly, it tastes even better the next day (if there’s any left!).
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili Recipe
This chili is the cozy hero of Pioneer Woman Fall Recipes. It’s rich without being heavy, and packs just enough heat to keep your toes warm without scaring off spice-shy eaters. Whether you’re dealing with picky kids, surprise guests, or just a serious chili craving, this recipe has your back. Plus, it’s a breeze to make—you don’t need a culinary degree to pull this off.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cooked Chicken – Use rotisserie for convenience, or leftovers to keep it easy.
- Onion & Garlic – The aromatic foundation that makes your kitchen smell like a dream.
- Green Chiles – Adds mild heat and depth.
- Great Northern Beans – Creamy, hearty, and full of fiber.
- Chicken Broth – The base that brings it all together.
- Jalapeño – For that little kick; remove the seeds if you’re heat-sensitive.
- Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Cayenne, Salt, White Pepper) – Warm and earthy flavors that balance the creaminess.
- Whole Milk & Cornmeal – Thickens the chili to velvety perfection.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts like a dream and adds that creamy finish.
- Sour Cream & Cilantro (for garnish) – Optional, but they elevate the whole bowl.
Full ingredient list with measurements is right below in the recipe card.
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Good Stuff: Start by sautéing your diced onion and minced garlic in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Layer the Flavors: Add your rinsed beans and chopped green chiles. Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the jalapeño slices. Season generously with cumin, a pinch of salt, and white pepper.
- Simmer the Soul In: Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Halfway through, add your shredded chicken so it soaks up all that flavor.
- Creamy Magic Time: Once the beans are tender, mix your cornmeal with the milk and stir it into the pot. Let it simmer another 10 minutes until the chili thickens nicely.
- Spice & Cheese, Please: Taste and adjust the seasoning—this is your moment to add that paprika and cayenne if you want extra warmth. Then stir in the Monterey Jack cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
- Serve with Love: Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of extra cheese. Serve with warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips. If you’ve got pico de gallo or guacamole on hand, now’s the time to use them!
Nova’s Tips for White Chicken Chili Success
- If your chili looks a little too thin, just let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Want to make this even easier? Use canned white beans and pre-cooked chicken.
- Freeze leftovers for a rainy day—you’ll thank yourself later.
From My Kitchen to Yours
This White Chicken Chili Pioneer Woman style quickly became my go-to for Sunday family dinners. I still remember the first time I made it—my husband went back for thirds, and even the dogs sat a little closer to the stove. It’s that kind of good.
FAQs
Can I make this White Chicken Chili Recipe Easy for weeknights? Absolutely. Swap dry beans for canned and cook everything in a slow cooker or Instant Pot to save time.
Can I use another type of beans? Yes! Cannellini or navy beans work beautifully in this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe.
How should I store leftovers? Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
There you have it—your new favorite White Chili Chicken Recipe. Cozy, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a little bowl of fall happiness. Enjoy it, share it, and make it your own.
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Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, comforting, and mildly spicy, this Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili Recipe is a perfect fall favorite made with tender chicken, white beans, and a cozy blend of spices.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 (4 oz) cans green chiles, chopped
16 oz Great Northern beans, rinsed
8 cups chicken broth
1 medium jalapeño, sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Pinch of salt, to taste
Small pinch of white pepper, to taste
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (or to taste)
1 tablespoon sour cream, for garnish
1 sprig chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
2. Add rinsed beans and chopped green chiles; pour in the chicken broth.
3. Add sliced jalapeños and season with cumin, salt, and white pepper.
4. Cover and reduce heat to low; cook for 2 hours.
5. Add shredded cooked chicken halfway through cooking time.
6. Mix cornmeal with whole milk, then stir into chili.
7. Simmer another 10 minutes, until chili thickens.
8. Stir in Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with paprika and cayenne pepper if needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and extra cheese. Add warm corn tortillas, pico de gallo, or guacamole if desired.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep option.
Swap green chiles for mild salsa verde if preferred.
Canned beans can be substituted to reduce cook time.
Store leftovers in fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Pioneer Woman White Chicken Chili Recipe, White Chicken Chili, Fall Chili Recipe, Easy Chicken Chili