Description

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic chili, featuring tender chicken breasts simmered with white beans, aromatic vegetables, and bold Cajun seasoning. Finished with cream cheese and heavy cream for richness, and brightened with lime juice and fresh cilantro, this hearty chili is perfect for a cozy meal that has a spicy kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for seasoning chicken)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Vegetables and Beans

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, sliced
2 cups white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed if canned

Liquids and Cream

4 cups chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese
5 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon lime juice

Seasonings and Garnish

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (additional for pot)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season evenly with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are covered for maximum flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the white beans along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Chili: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover partially, and let cook for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Incorporate Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream: Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is smooth and creamy.
Add Lime Juice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice to brighten the overall flavor profile of the chili.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, extra jalapeño slices if desired, and a wedge of lime on the side for added zest.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add more jalapeño or Cajun seasoning to taste.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful chili if preferred.
This chili can be made ahead and reheated; flavors will deepen after resting overnight.
To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though it will be less creamy.
Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Cajun

Keywords: Cajun chicken chili, white chicken chili, creamy chicken chili, Cajun recipe, spicy chicken soup, comfort food chili