Description
Cajun White Chicken Chili is a creamy, spicy twist on the classic white chili. Packed with tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, and bold Cajun seasoning, it delivers the perfect balance of heat and comfort — an easy, hearty one-pot meal for cozy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
- Juice of 1 lime
- Chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Add shredded chicken, green chiles, white beans, corn, chicken broth, and all seasonings (Cajun seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper). Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese. Continue cooking on low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili is creamy and slightly thickened.
- Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or green onions. Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado slices, or crushed tortilla chips.
Notes
- For extra thickness, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- To make it lighter, use Greek yogurt or evaporated milk instead of cream.
- This chili freezes beautifully — store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun-American