Name: Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 celery stalks (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can (4 oz) green chiles; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (drained and rinsed); 4 cups chicken broth; 8 oz cream cheese (cubed); 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lime (juiced); Fresh cilantro (optional)

I’m not exaggerating when I say this Cajun White Chicken Chili is one of the most comforting bowls of food I’ve ever made. Imagine the creaminess of classic white chili, combined with bold Cajun spices, juicy chunks of chicken, and the brightness of fresh lime. It’s hearty, full of personality, and downright addicting.

I love recipes that come together effortlessly but taste like you spent all day cooking. This chili fits the bill perfectly—it’s bold, creamy, and spicy in all the right ways. Whether I’m making it for meal prep, a cozy dinner, or sharing with friends, it always brings rave reviews. If you’re looking for a one-pot dinner that checks all the boxes, this one’s a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun White Chicken Chili

Bold and creamy: It has the depth of Cajun spices mixed with the smooth richness of cream and beans.
Fast, easy, and comforting: Ready in about 30 minutes, with minimal prep.
Hearty and satisfying: Thanks to the chicken, beans, and a rich broth, it’s filling enough to be the main dish.
Meal prep friendly: Tastes even better the next day and freezes like a dream.
Customizable heat level: You can make it as spicy or mild as you like with just a tweak of seasoning.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Cajun White Chicken Chili?

For this chili, I usually go with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Both work beautifully—breasts are lean and shred easily once cooked, while thighs are more flavorful and juicy. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds a nice roasted flavor.

You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. The key is to shred or cube it into bite-sized pieces so it melds well into the creamy chili base. Don’t worry about perfection here—this is rustic comfort food at its best.

Options for Substitutions

Beans: Great Northern beans or cannellini are classic, but navy beans or even chickpeas can work if that’s what you have on hand.
Cream cheese: If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or light cream cheese. It still brings creaminess without all the richness.
Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works as a substitute, and if you’re going for even more flavor, try bone broth.
Spice level: If Cajun seasoning is too spicy, reduce the quantity or use a mild blend. You can also stir in some sour cream to tone it down.
Corn: Frozen, canned, or fresh corn all work. Sweet corn adds a lovely pop of flavor and texture.
Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free broth to keep it creamy while staying dairy-free.

Ingredients for This Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building deep flavor and a rich, creamy texture. Here’s why they matter:

Chicken (breast or thigh): The heart of the chili. It soaks up the Cajun spices and provides hearty protein in every bite.
White beans (cannellini or Great Northern): These add creaminess and body to the chili without needing heavy cream.
Chicken broth: The base liquid that pulls everything together and enhances the savory depth.
Cream cheese: The magic ingredient that creates the signature velvety texture.
Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and a foundation of flavor.
Celery: A classic Cajun component that brings crunch and freshness.
Green chiles: Provide a gentle, zesty heat without overpowering the chili.
Cajun seasoning: The flavor powerhouse—bold, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy.
Garlic: Adds warmth and an irresistible savory punch.
Lime juice: A bright finishing touch that lifts the whole dish and cuts through the richness.
Fresh cilantro (optional): Gives a herbal, citrusy kick that balances the creaminess.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into focus.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then toss in the chopped onions and celery. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Cajun Seasoning

Add your raw chicken pieces directly into the pot and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together, letting the chicken sear lightly and absorb the spices. This step builds a strong flavor base.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Chiles

Once the chicken is lightly browned, pour in the chicken broth and the can of green chiles. Stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken pieces with tongs and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it back in.

Step 5: Add Beans and Cream Cheese

Rinse and drain your beans, then add them to the pot. Cube the cream cheese and stir it in gently until it fully melts into the chili, making it thick and creamy.

Step 6: Simmer and Finish

Let the chili simmer for another 5–10 minutes to allow all the flavors to come together. Squeeze in the lime juice just before serving and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if you’re using it.

How Long to Cook the Cajun White Chicken Chili

Cooking this Cajun White Chicken Chili is relatively quick. Here’s the breakdown:

Total cook time: Approximately 40–45 minutes.
- Prep time: 10 minutes (for chopping and getting your ingredients ready).
- Cooking time: 30–35 minutes to sauté, simmer, and bring everything together.

Since the chicken is cooked directly in the broth and the flavors meld quickly, you’ll have a bowl of delicious chili in less than an hour!

Tips for Perfect Cajun White Chicken Chili

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender, make sure not to overcook it. Once it’s cooked through (no longer pink in the middle), shred it and return it to the pot.
Creamy Consistency: If your chili is thicker than you like, simply add more chicken broth or a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
Adjust the Spice Level: Cajun seasoning can be a bit spicy, so if you prefer a milder chili, use less or opt for a more mild seasoning blend. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream to cut the heat.
Fresh Lime is Key: Squeezing lime juice in at the end adds a fresh, tangy lift that brightens the entire dish. Don’t skip it!
Simmering Time: After adding the beans and cream cheese, let the chili simmer for a few extra minutes to make sure everything melds together. The longer it sits, the more the flavors deepen!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken: While it’s important to cook the chicken through, you don’t want to overdo it. Overcooked chicken can become dry and stringy, so keep an eye on it and shred it as soon as it’s done.
Skipping the Sauté Step: The sautéing of onions, celery, and garlic is crucial for building the flavor base. Don’t rush this step—it’s where much of the dish’s depth comes from. Take your time to develop those aromatic flavors.
Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: Shredding the chicken helps it absorb the flavors better. If you just toss the chicken chunks in without shredding them, the chili won’t have that satisfying, hearty texture throughout.
Too Much Cream Cheese: While cream cheese makes the chili wonderfully creamy, too much can make it overly thick and heavy. Stick to the recommended amount for the right balance.
Underseasoning: With the spicy Cajun seasoning and the creaminess of the cheese and beans, it’s easy to overlook the seasoning balance. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice before serving. A pinch of extra Cajun spice can make all the difference!

What to Serve With Cajun White Chicken Chili?

1. Cornbread

Warm, buttery cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to this chili. It soaks up the creamy broth and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.

2. Rice

Serve your chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to make it even heartier. The rice soaks up the broth and gives the chili a nice base.

3. Side Salad

A crisp, refreshing side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a bright contrast to the richness of the chili.

4. Jalapeño Corn Muffins

For an extra kick, pair the chili with jalapeño corn muffins. The subtle heat from the jalapeños will complement the Cajun spices perfectly.

5. Avocado Slices

Top your chili with fresh avocado slices for a creamy, cooling effect that offsets the heat from the Cajun seasoning.

6. Tortilla Chips

Crunchy tortilla chips add texture to your bowl of chili and are perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.

7. Sour Cream

A dollop of sour cream will cool down the chili’s heat and add a creamy contrast. It’s also a great way to balance out the spices.

8. Sliced Green Onions

Fresh green onions provide a crisp, sharp flavor that adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. It’s a simple garnish that elevates the chili.

Storage Instructions

This Cajun White Chicken Chili makes great leftovers and can be stored for a few days in the fridge or frozen for future meals.

Refrigerating: Let the chili cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3–4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, place the chili in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Reheating: If the chili thickens too much after being refrigerated or frozen, just add a little extra chicken broth or water to get the desired consistency when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving (about 1.5 cups) of this Cajun White Chicken Chili:

Calories: 350–400 kcal
Protein: 30–35 grams
Carbohydrates: 25–30 grams
Fiber: 6–7 grams
Fat: 15–18 grams
Sodium: 800–1000 mg

These numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content in the cream cheese or chicken. If you’re looking to lower the calorie count, you can opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or skip the cornbread on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this chili actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. You can make it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and enjoy!

2. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken, onions, celery, and garlic on low for 6 hours in a slow cooker. Add the cream cheese, beans, and spices during the last 30 minutes of cooking for the perfect creamy texture.

3. Can I make this chili spicy?

Yes, if you like a spicy kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some diced jalapeños. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for extra heat.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to cook the chicken long enough to ensure it’s fully cooked through. You might need to add a bit more time if cooking from frozen.

5. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or coconut milk for a similar creamy texture. Just be sure to check the label to ensure it has a similar consistency.

6. Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and bulk up the chili. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you add.

7. Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, you can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

8. Can I use ground chicken instead of whole chicken pieces?

Yes, ground chicken can work well in this recipe. Simply brown it in the pot with the onions and garlic before adding the liquids. Ground chicken will result in a different texture, but it’s a great time-saving option.

Conclusion

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is truly a comforting dish that brings bold flavors and creamy goodness to every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, preparing it for meal prep, or sharing it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. With just the right amount of spice, heartiness, and ease, it’s destined to become a go-to favorite in your cooking rotation.

So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warm, creamy, and flavorful Cajun White Chicken Chili!