Cajun White Chicken Chili : A Spicy and Comforting Meal

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and spicy twist on traditional chili, this Cajun White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish! Packed with tender chicken, white beans, and a bold Cajun seasoning blend, this chili delivers deep, smoky flavors with a satisfying heat.

Unlike traditional beef-based chili, this version is lighter yet just as hearty, making it a great choice for those who love rich flavors without feeling too heavy. The addition of green chilies, garlic, and creamy broth creates a dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy.

Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a game-day gathering, this one-pot meal is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s gluten-free and high in protein, making it a wholesome option for any diet!


Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  1. Bold Cajun Flavor: A mix of Cajun spices, garlic, and green chilies makes this chili irresistibly tasty.
  2. Creamy and Comforting: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth creates a luscious, velvety texture.
  3. One-Pot Wonder: Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
  4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day!
  5. Protein-Packed: A hearty meal that keeps you full and satisfied.
  6. Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to your personal preference.

This recipe is ideal for cold nights, busy weeknights, or when you need a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. It’s a family favorite that even picky eaters will love!


Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

Equipment Used:

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Directions & Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  2. Season the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  5. Make it Creamy: Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and white beans. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is creamy.
  6. Add Cheese & Garnish: Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and cook for 2 more minutes until melted.
  7. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for a citrusy balance.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fats: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is a great balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The white beans provide fiber, while the chicken adds lean protein. The addition of cream cheese and heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture without being overly rich.


Prep Time and Cook Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations:

  • Make it Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
  • Low-Carb Version: Skip the white beans for a keto-friendly version.
  • Extra Veggies: Add corn, bell peppers, or spinach.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then shred the chicken and stir in the creamy ingredients.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Just skip the simmering step and add shredded rotisserie chicken directly to the pot.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: What should I serve with this chili?
A: Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a delicious meal.


Pro Tips By Lynda:

  1. Use Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Control spice levels by making your own mix.
  2. For Extra Creaminess: Blend half the beans before adding them.
  3. Simmer for Longer: The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor!
  4. Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro and lime take this chili to the next level.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with crusty bread or cornbread.
  • Pair with a simple green salad.
  • Top with avocado slices or extra shredded cheese.
  • Enjoy with a cold beer or iced tea.

Cajun White Chicken Chili : A Spicy and Comforting Meal

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and spicy twist on traditional chili, this Cajun White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish! Packed with tender chicken, white beans, and a bold Cajun seasoning blend, this chili delivers deep, smoky flavors with a satisfying heat.

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle
  • 2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken breasts (shredded))
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 can (4 oz green chilies)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz white beans, drained and rinsed)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped (for garnish))
  • 1 lime (cut into wedges (for serving))
  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  2. Season the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  5. Make it Creamy: Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and white beans. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is creamy.
  6. Add Cheese & Garnish: Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and cook for 2 more minutes until melted.
  7. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for a citrusy balance.

Use Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Control spice levels by making your own mix.

For Extra Creaminess: Blend half the beans before adding them.

Simmer for Longer: The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor!

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