Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cajun White Chicken Chili is a bold twist on classic white chili, combining creamy comfort with the warm, smoky heat of Cajun seasoning. This recipe delivers depth without heaviness, making it perfect for cozy evenings, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week. What sets it apart is the balance between spice and creaminess, with tender chicken, soft beans, and a richly seasoned broth coming together in one pot.
I enjoy this version because it is adaptable and forgiving. I tested it with both chicken breasts and thighs, and each worked beautifully depending on whether you prefer leaner or richer meat. The Cajun spices add character without overwhelming the dish, while the creamy base smooths everything out. Served with crusty bread or rice, this chili is comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every spoonful.
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Cajun White Chicken Chili – Creamy, Spiced Comfort with Southern Soul
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cajun White Chicken Chili is a hearty, creamy chili packed with tender chicken, white beans, and bold Cajun spices, delivering a comforting bowl with a spicy Southern twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.
- Add Cajun seasoning, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and add white beans.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer an additional 10 minutes, garnish, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
- Shred the chicken instead of dicing for a different texture.
- Serve with cornbread or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup & Chili
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken provides the protein and heartiness of this chili. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well and shred easily once cooked.
Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics and start building flavor at the base of the chili.
Onion adds natural sweetness and depth, forming the foundation of the savory profile.
Garlic brings aromatic warmth and enhances the Cajun seasoning.
Cajun seasoning is the defining spice blend, contributing smoky heat, paprika, and herbaceous notes.
White beans add creaminess and body while keeping the chili hearty and filling.
Chicken stock forms the liquid base, allowing the flavors to meld as the chili simmers.
Green chilies introduce mild heat and subtle tang without overpowering the dish.
Heavy cream creates the signature creamy texture and balances the spices.
Cream cheese thickens the chili further and adds richness.
Salt adjusts seasoning and enhances all the other flavors.
Black pepper provides gentle heat and depth.
Fresh cilantro or parsley offers a bright, fresh finish.
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the chicken to the pot and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Pour in chicken stock and add green chilies and white beans.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth, followed by the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 40 minutes, making the total time roughly 55 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock if the chili thickens too much during storage.
Variations and Customizations
This chili is highly customizable. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a smokier flavor, smoked paprika pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices.
Vegetable additions work well in this dish. I tested it with corn and diced bell peppers, which added sweetness and texture without changing the overall balance. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk or use reduced-fat cream cheese.
If you want a thicker chili, mash a small portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. For a dairy-free adaptation, use coconut milk and omit the cream cheese, resulting in a slightly different but still satisfying profile.
This chili can also be made in a slow cooker by adding all ingredients except dairy and stirring in cream and cream cheese at the end.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Cajun White Chicken Chili is high in protein and provides sustained energy from beans. While the creamy base adds richness, portions remain balanced. Adjusting dairy components can tailor the dish to different dietary preferences.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Control the spice
Cajun seasoning varies in heat, so adjust gradually.
Shred while warm
Chicken shreds more easily when hot.
Simmer gently
Avoid boiling after adding dairy to maintain a smooth texture.
Rest before serving
Allowing the chili to sit briefly enhances flavor.
FAQs
Is Cajun White Chicken Chili very spicy?
It is moderately spiced but easily adjusted to taste.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add it after the simmering stage.
What beans work best?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal.
Can I freeze this chili?
Freezing is possible, but texture may change slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, it reheats very well.
What toppings pair well?
Shredded cheese, green onions, or tortilla strips.
Can I substitute the cream?
Milk or half-and-half can be used.
Does this thicken as it cools?
Yes, it thickens slightly after resting.
What should I serve with it?
Crusty bread or rice complements it well.
Conclusion
Cajun White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy dish with just the right amount of Southern-inspired spice. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, it is a versatile recipe that works equally well for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or make-ahead meals.
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