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There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm bowl of chili, especially during chilly evenings. One taste of Mom’s White Chicken Chili and I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air. The creamy texture, combined with the subtle heat of diced green chiles and the heartiness of shredded chicken, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and inviting.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it brings people together. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something to impress friends at a potluck, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it makes use of rotisserie chicken, which means you can whip it up in a breeze — perfect for those who are tired of the fast-food routine.

As the slow cooker works its magic, you’ll find that the enticing smells wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to dig in. So grab your ingredients and let’s turn a simple collection of pantry staples into a hearty, flavorful feast that’ll soon become a family favorite!

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

Comforting, This recipe offers a warm embrace of flavors that makes it perfect for chilly nights or cozy get-togethers.

Effortless, With minimal prep and the use of rotisserie chicken, dinner is ready in just a few hours, allowing you to spend time with loved ones instead of slaving over the stove.

Unique twist, The combination of creamy Monterey Jack cheese and zesty green chiles sets it apart from traditional chili, delivering a fresh and satisfying taste.

Crowd-pleaser, Whether serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or as an easy weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to please and please!

Versatile, You can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking, making it a flexible option for all cooking preferences.

Ingredients for Mom’s White Chicken Chili

• Get ready to create a comforting dish!

For the Chili Base

Cannellini or Great Northern beans – 6 (15 ounce) cans, drained and rinsed; they provide a creamy texture that acts as the perfect foundation.
Diced green chiles – 2-3 (4 ounce) cans; these add a subtle kick that complements the creaminess of the dish.
Butter – ½ cup; it enhances the flavors and gives the chili a rich, velvety base.
White onion – 1, diced finely; this brings depth and sweetness as it caramelizes in the pot.
Flour – ½ cup; used to slightly thicken the chili, giving it that comforting, hearty feel.
Chicken broth – 4 cups; the soul of the dish, ensuring it’s flavorful and satisfying.
Ground cumin – 3 teaspoons; it adds a warm, earthy tone that elevates the chili to new heights.
Shredded rotisserie chicken – 2-3 cups; this time-saver makes this chili a breeze to prepare while still being delicious.

For the Creamy Finish

Monterey Jack cheese – 2 cups, shredded; it melts beautifully, creating a luscious, cheesy texture.
Sour cream – 1 cup; this adds a delightful tanginess and richness that rounds out the flavors.
Hot sauce – Dash, optional; for those who love a touch of heat to balance the creaminess of Mom’s White Chicken Chili.

For Serving

Tortilla chips – Perfect for scooping or enjoying on the side, they add a crunchy element to this cozy dish.

How to Make Mom’s White Chicken Chili

Add Ingredients: In a 6-8 quart slow cooker, combine the drained and rinsed beans with the diced green chiles. This simple step sets the flavorful foundation for your chili.
Sauté Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Mix Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir to combine. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, letting the flour absorb the buttery goodness and create a thick mixture.
Whisk Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, cooking until the mixture thickens slightly—about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Combine Delights: Pour the creamy liquid from the pot into the slow cooker and stir to combine all those wonderful flavors. This will ensure an even distribution throughout the chili.
Season and Add Chicken: Add the ground cumin and the shredded rotisserie chicken to the slow cooker, stirring gently. The chicken adds heartiness and is key to the comforting essence of Mom’s White Chicken Chili.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. You can go about your day while the magic happens!
Finish with Cheese & Sour Cream: Before serving, carefully stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. This is the moment of indulgence! Add a dash of hot sauce, if desired.
Serve Gently: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with crunchy tortilla chips on the side. They make the perfect vehicle for scooping up all that deliciousness.
Stovetop Option: If you prefer to cook on the stovetop, simmer everything in a large pot for 20-30 minutes instead of using the slow cooker. You’ll still enjoy that warm, comforting delight!

Optional: Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Mom’s White Chicken Chili

Quality ingredients: Always choose high-quality rotisserie chicken and fresh ingredients; this will elevate the flavors, making your Mom’s White Chicken Chili truly stand out.
Consistent stirring: Stirring the cheese and sour cream thoroughly before serving is crucial to ensure a creamy consistency throughout. Don’t rush this part!
Let it rest: Allow the chili to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps the flavors meld and improves the overall taste.
Adjust heat: If you’re uncertain about heat levels, start with a small amount of hot sauce. You can always add more to Mom’s White Chicken Chili later, but it’s hard to tone down the heat!
Stovetop shortcut: For a quicker meal, remember that simmering everything on the stovetop takes only 20-30 minutes. This method still delivers comfort without the wait.

How to Store and Freeze Mom’s White Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: Freeze Mom’s White Chicken Chili in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving chili out for more than 2 hours to keep it safe and delicious. Proper storage ensures you enjoy every flavorful bite!

What to Serve with Mom’s White Chicken Chili?

Elevate your meal and create a delightful feast around this creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love!

Warm Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread adds a delightful texture contrast, perfect for scooping up the chili.
Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with tomatoes and lime brings a refreshing, zesty balance to the rich chili.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Ideal for dipping, these add a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy chili.
Mexican Street Corn: Sweet and savory flavors from grilled corn, lime, and cheese provide an irresistible side that complements the chili’s warmth.
Refried Beans: A rich, velvety side that enhances the heartiness of the chili, making for a fulfilling and satisfying meal.
Limeade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink cuts through the richness, providing a zesty note that will keep you cool and refreshed.
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins: These give a kick and are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat, complementing the chili perfectly!
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with these crispy treats, adding an indulgent touch to your hearty dinner.
Classic Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw adds a fresh element, lightening up the richness of the chili.

Mom’s White Chicken Chili Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this dish and make it your own with these scrumptious twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the Monterey Jack cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives made from nuts or soy for a creamy finish.
Spicy Kick: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or extra diced green chiles for a heat boost that will awaken your taste buds.
Vegetarian Version: Swap shredded rotisserie chicken for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, plant-based take on this comforting chili.
Added Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers, corn, or carrots for extra nutrition and color. Each bite will be bursting with goodness!
Cilantro Lime: Stir in fresh cilantro and a squirt of lime juice before serving for a zesty twist that elevates the entire dish.
Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the cooking process for a warm, smoky undertone that gets everyone talking.
Hearty Beans: Mix in black beans or pinto beans along with cannellini or Great Northern beans to create a delightful variety of textures.
Tortilla Toppers: Instead of serving with tortilla chips, fry up some homemade tortilla strips for an added crunch that beautifully complements the chili.

Make Ahead Options

These Mom’s White Chicken Chili prep tips will save you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chili base (beans, chiles, broth, onions, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, whisk the broth and flour mixture, then let it cool before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, add the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with the cooled chili base and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the cheese and sour cream just before serving for that rich, indulgent finish. Enjoy hassle-free, delicious dinners without compromising on flavor!

Mom’s White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

What kind of beans should I use for Mom’s White Chicken Chili?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using cannellini or Great Northern beans. These varieties are creamy and will give your chili a delightful base. Make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker!

How should I store leftovers from Mom’s White Chicken Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. It’s essential to let the chili cool completely before sealing it; this helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze Mom’s White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! You can freeze this chili in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely first. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat gently, stirring occasionally.

What’s the best way to reheat Mom’s White Chicken Chili?
To reheat, place the chili in a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth if the chili is too thick. This method ensures you achieve a creamy consistency while savoring that comforting flavor again.

Are there any dietary considerations for Mom’s White Chicken Chili?
If you’re catering to dietary needs, consider substituting the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to use gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check for allergens in the rotisserie chicken and cheese if allergies are a concern.

What should I do if my chili is too thick?
If you find that your chili has thickened more than you prefer, just add a little chicken broth or water as it reheats. Stir it well until you reach your desired consistency; don’t hesitate to adjust to your taste!