If you are looking to cozy up your dinner routine with something both comforting and packed with flavor, this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a creamy, slightly spicy dish that combines tender chicken with white beans and green chilis, all simmered to perfection in the magic of your Instant Pot. Whether you’re craving something hearty on a chilly night or a crowd-pleaser that comes together without fuss, this chili delivers every time with layers of seasoning and a luscious texture that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe lies in its simplicity balanced with flavor-packed ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the tender chicken that gives body to the dish, to the creamy cheese that smooths out the spicy notes. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this wholesome meal shine.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfect for shredding and soaking up all the flavorful spices.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the ingredients naturally.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy undertone that’s essential in chili.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal depth for balance.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Brings a classic chili spice with a gentle kick.
- â…› teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Gives a touch of warmth without overpowering.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Provides the savory liquid base without excess salt.
- 1 onion (chopped): Sweetness and texture to build flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic boldness that complements the spices.
- 30 ounces canned white beans (drained and rinsed): Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein.
- 8 ounces diced green chilis (drained): Give a subtle smoky and tangy brightness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (cut into 1-inch cubes): Melts into a silky texture that elevates the chili.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Offers fresh, herbaceous brightness when stirred in at the end.
How to Make Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Season the chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. This spice blend is the foundation of your chili’s bold and balanced flavor, giving the chicken a delicious, aromatic crust even before cooking.
Step 2: Add broth and chicken to Instant Pot
Pour the cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the Instant Pot. This liquid is critical for creating steam and pressure as well as infusing your chili with that rich broth flavor from the start. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right into the broth, letting them nestle in completely.
Step 3: Mix in vegetables and beans, add cream cheese
Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, drained white beans, and diced green chilis into the pot. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much. Finally, scatter the cream cheese cubes evenly over the top — this creamy addition will melt down beautifully during cooking, creating that signature chili texture we all crave.
Step 4: Pressure cook and release
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. When the time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes; this gentle release helps keep the chicken moist and tender. Then, carefully use the quick release to drop the remaining pressure before opening the lid.
Step 5: Shred chicken and finish the chili
Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks, then return all the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir in the fresh cilantro, mixing until everything is perfectly combined. The chili should be warm, creamy, and bursting with flavor — now it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your white chicken chili, try topping it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips. Fresh avocado slices or jalapeño rings can add creaminess or extra heat, making each bite more exciting and delicious.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or cornbread on the side. The softness of the cornbread complements the spicy, creamy chili perfectly, and a fresh salad adds a refreshing crunch to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this chili in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, rustic look, or ladle it over baked potatoes for a hearty twist. For casual gatherings, offer a chili bar with toppings and sides so everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual servings; just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy in the chili. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but generally, the recipe works well with thighs too.
Is this recipe spicy?
This white chicken chili has a mild to moderate level of heat from the chili powder and cayenne. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper or adding more if you like it hotter.
Can I make this chili without cream cheese?
You can skip the cream cheese for a lighter version, but it does add a wonderful creamy texture that balances the spices. A good substitute could be a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half stirred in at the end.
Do I have to use an Instant Pot?
While this recipe is designed for the Instant Pot to save time and build flavor, you can make it on the stovetop too. Simmer the chicken and other ingredients gently, then shred the chicken once cooked and stir in the cream cheese at the end.
What can I use instead of fresh cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or chopped green onions can add a nice fresh note without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a bowl of warm, creamy chili that’s packed with tender chicken, beans, and a perfect blend of spices. This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s such a beloved recipe in my kitchen and hopefully in yours too!
