When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a hearty bowl of chili. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly night or feeding a crowd, chili’s rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a go-to meal for any occasion. But what if you could elevate the classic recipe with a twist? Enter Campbell Soup White Chicken Chili. This version of chili swaps out the usual beef for tender, juicy chicken and adds a creamy, rich base that’ll keep you coming back for more.
What sets this dish apart is its balance of flavor. The white beans add a mild yet satisfying texture, while the chicken is seasoned to perfection, providing a lighter alternative to the traditional red chili. And if you’re a fan of Campbell’s soups, you know they’ve got that magic touch when it comes to creating creamy, savory dishes that are both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or even a special gathering.
Campbell Soup White Chicken Chili Recipe
This white chicken chili brings together lean chicken, creamy beans, and the signature Campbell’s flavor to create something truly special. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it’s still full of rich, complex flavors that will have you savoring each bite. Ready to create a bowl of warmth and comfort? Let’s walk through the process.
Ingredients Needed
To make the Campbell Soup White Chicken Chili, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast – The star of the show! Chicken breasts are lean, tender, and take on the flavors of the broth beautifully.
- 1 can (15.5 oz) of white beans (like Great Northern or Cannellini) – They add creaminess and subtle earthiness, which balances the spice and broth perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s® Cream of Chicken Soup – This creamy soup forms the base of the chili and adds a rich, velvety texture.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies – For a mild kick of heat, this adds flavor without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, it enhances the savory undertones of the dish.
- 2 cups chicken broth – The liquid foundation that will carry all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – This brings warmth and an earthy smokiness to the chili.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a mild, zesty heat that complements the cumin.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – To taste, but don’t overdo it, as the broth and canned ingredients will add salt too.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For a little zing and contrast to the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) – To garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Sour cream (optional) – For a creamy, tangy topping that makes the dish even more indulgent.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up, it’s time to put them together. This recipe is perfect for those who want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Cook The Chicken
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re fully cooked through and browned.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. Then, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with delicious smells.
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Combine The Ingredients
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Then, pour in the chicken broth, the can of cream of chicken soup, and the diced green chilies. Stir well to combine.
- Add the white beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to make sure the spices are evenly distributed.
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Simmer The Chili
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld together and the soup can thicken up slightly.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, if desired. You can also serve it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role of each ingredient helps make this recipe even more enjoyable:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and versatile, chicken breast takes on the flavors of the soup base without being overpowering. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein!
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret to the creamy texture. It’s rich, velvety, and provides a comforting foundation for the chili.
- White Beans: These mild beans (like Great Northern or Cannellini) are starchy and creamy. They absorb the flavors of the soup, making each bite a little more comforting.
- Green Chilies: While not spicy, these add a slight tang and depth to the chili, giving it just the right balance of flavor.
- Cumin & Chili Powder: These spices are essential in giving the chili that warm, earthy, slightly smoky flavor that makes chili chili.
Expert Tips
To take your white chicken chili to the next level, try these expert tips:
- Shred the Chicken Before Cooking: For a more tender chicken, try shredding the breast before cooking it in the pot. It’ll absorb more flavor and be easier to break down.
- Add a Touch of Cream: For an even creamier consistency, add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño along with the green chilies.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can also prepare this chili in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the chicken) to the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred the chicken and stir it in before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free twist, substitute the chicken with extra beans (like black beans or kidney beans), tofu, or tempeh. You could also try adding corn for extra sweetness and texture.
- Spicy White Chicken Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring the heat. You can also use a spicier variety of green chilies.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to infuse your chili with a rich, smoky depth.
- Creamy White Chicken Chili: For extra creaminess, swirl in a little cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
Final Words
This Campbell Soup White Chicken Chili is everything you want in a comforting meal: rich, creamy, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s simple, flavorful, and can be customized to suit anyone’s taste preferences. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets better the next day, so you’ll be enjoying leftovers too!