Description

This flavorful Cajun White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a spicy blend of Cajun seasoning, simmered to perfection in a rich and creamy broth. Enhanced with cream cheese, heavy cream, and a hint of lime juice, this hearty chili is perfect for a comforting dinner with a zesty kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)

Vegetables

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, sliced (plus extra for garnish)

Beans & Broth

2 cups white beans (cannellini or great northern)
4 cups chicken broth

Seasonings & Oils

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy & Herbs

4 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to infuse them with bold flavors.
Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of 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. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool slightly.
Shred Chicken: Once cooled enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same Dutch oven, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir in the 2 cups of white beans and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Mix well to combine.
Simmer Chili: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring the chili to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
Add Cream Cheese and Cream: Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until fully melted and the chili is creamy and smooth.
Brighten Flavors: Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice to the chili, stirring to enhance brightness and balance the rich flavors.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, extra jalapeño slices if desired, and lime wedges for squeezing.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier chili.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño.
For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
This chili can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American Cajun

Keywords: cajun white chicken chili, creamy chicken chili, spicy chicken chili, white bean chili, comforting dinner, one pot chili