White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
This White Chicken Chili recipe with cream cheese is a warm and comforting dish perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. With just seven simple ingredients, you can create a creamy and flavorful chili that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply dump the ingredients into your Crock Pot, and let it do all the work while you relax.
- Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese gives this chili a rich and velvety mouthfeel that elevates the dish.
- Flavor Packed: With taco seasoning and ranch mix, each bite bursts with delicious flavors that everyone will love.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your chili with toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, or fresh herbs to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
To make this White Chicken Chili recipe with cream cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Crock Pot: This slow cooker allows you to prepare meals effortlessly. Just set it, forget it, and come back to a delicious dinner.
- Chef’s Knife: A good knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring even pieces for consistent cooking.

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (thawed and trimmed of fat)
- 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet or 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
Canned Goods
- 15 ounces canned black beans (undrained)
- 15 ounces canned corn (undrained)
- 10 ounces canned Rotel tomatoes with green chiles (undrained)
Creamy Addition
- 8 ounces cream cheese
How to Make White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crock Pot. Pour in the taco seasoning, ranch seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes. Finally, place the cream cheese on top.
Step 2: Set Cooking Time
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Shred Chicken
Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Stir the contents of the Crock Pot thoroughly to mix in the melted cream cheese. Add back in the shredded chicken and stir until well combined.
Step 5: Serve
Dish out your creamy white chicken chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as tortilla strips, shredded cheese, diced avocados, lime juice, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
How to Serve White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
Serving your white chicken chili is all about enhancing its flavor and presentation. This creamy dish can be customized with a variety of toppings and sides that complement its richness.
Toppings
- Tortilla Strips: Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling crisp tortilla strips on top.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar or Monterey Jack brings additional creaminess and flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds a creamy, buttery taste that balances the spices in the chili.
- Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and adds a refreshing acidity.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro provides a fresh herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.
Bread Pairings
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory flavors of chili, making for a comforting combination.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the creaminess of the chili beautifully.
How to Perfect White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
To achieve the best version of this white chicken chili, follow these tips for a delicious result.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality chicken for better flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra taco seasoning.
- Stir Well Before Serving: Ensure the cream cheese is fully blended into the chili for a smooth texture.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add different toppings like sour cream or sliced jalapeños for extra flair.
Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
Pairing side dishes with your white chicken chili can enhance your meal. Here are some perfect options to consider.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with melted cheese and garlic makes an excellent side.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the rich chili.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs complements the creamy texture of the chili.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans provide an earthy balance to the spices in the chili.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness alongside each bowl of chili.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob can be a fun, rustic side that pairs well with this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls when making this White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese.
- Using Frozen Chicken – Always start with thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. Frozen chicken can lead to uneven textures.
- Skipping the Seasonings – Be sure to include both taco and ranch seasoning. Omitting these can result in a bland chili.
- Not Shredding the Chicken – Failing to shred the chicken after cooking means you miss out on mixing in that creamy goodness throughout the chili.
- Overcooking or Undercooking – Stick to the recommended cooking times to ensure your chili is perfectly creamy and flavorful.
- Ignoring Toppings – Don’t skip the toppings! They add flavor and texture that enhance your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow chili to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese.
Can I use other meats in this White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even lean beef for different flavors.
How spicy is this White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese?
The heat level mainly comes from the Rotel tomatoes. For less spice, use regular diced tomatoes instead.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
What toppings work best with White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese?
Tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado slices, lime juice, and fresh cilantro all pair beautifully with this chili.
Final Thoughts
This White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. Its creamy texture makes it a favorite among many! Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your choice of vegetables or spices. Give it a try; your family will love it!
White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese
Warm up your gatherings with this delightful White Chicken Chili Recipe with Cream Cheese. This creamy and flavorful dish is made easy with just seven key ingredients, perfect for cozy nights or lively game days. The rich texture from cream cheese and vibrant flavors from taco and ranch seasonings make it a crowd-pleaser. Simply combine everything in your Crock Pot and let the slow cooker do its magic while you enjoy your time with friends and family. Top it off with crunchy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, or zesty lime juice for a personalized touch. This chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes excellent leftovers, as the flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix
- 15 ounces canned black beans
- 15 ounces canned corn
- 10 ounces canned Rotel tomatoes
- 8 ounces cream cheese
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts to the bottom of your Crock Pot.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning and ranch seasoning mix over the chicken.
- Pour in black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes.
- Place cream cheese on top.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, then stir everything together until well combined.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
