Description

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is a creamy, mildly spicy soup that combines shredded chicken, white beans, and a flavorful blend of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a comforting meal, it features a rich texture from cream cheese and heavy cream, balanced with a hint of lime and fresh cilantro for brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Beans

2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 cups white beans (cannellini or great northern)

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Liquids & Dairy

4 cups chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream

Seasonings & Oils

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions

Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring an even coating for robust flavor.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it finely using two forks, then set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add broth and beans: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the white beans along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the chili: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes to blend flavors.
Add creaminess: Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until fully melted and the chili achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
Brighten flavors: Add the lime juice to the chili, stirring to incorporate a fresh, tangy note.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, extra jalapeño slices, or a wedge of lime for added taste and presentation.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add more jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Substitute chicken thighs for more tenderness and flavor if preferred.
Use canned white beans if fresh beans are unavailable; drain and rinse before adding.
Adjust cream cheese and heavy cream quantities to desired thickness and richness.
This chili freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

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

Keywords: Cajun white chicken chili, creamy chicken chili, white bean chili, easy chicken chili, hearty soup, Cajun seasoning recipe