Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is a bold, creamy twist on the traditional chili, packed with tender chicken, white beans, and spicy Cajun seasoning. It’s a comforting, hearty dish with just the right amount of kick, perfect for cozy nights or when I’m craving something both creamy and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it brings together the smoky, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine with the creamy goodness of white chicken chili. It’s rich without being too heavy, and it’s loaded with protein and flavor. I can throw it together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s also a great alternative to red chili when I want something a little different but just as satisfying.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked shredded chicken
white beans (like Great Northern or cannellini)
onion
garlic
green chilies
chicken broth
cream cheese
heavy cream or half-and-half
Cajun seasoning
olive oil or butter
salt and pepper
fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions
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I start by sautéing the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil or butter in a large pot until they’re soft and fragrant.
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I stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook it briefly to bring out its bold flavors.
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I add the shredded chicken, white beans, and green chilies, mixing everything together.
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I pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it cook for about 15 minutes so all the flavors come together.
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I reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and smooth, making the chili thick and creamy.
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I let it simmer a few more minutes, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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Before serving, I garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 6 people and takes roughly 35–40 minutes to make from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests.
Variations
Sometimes I add corn or diced bell peppers for extra texture and sweetness. I’ve also made it with leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken when I’m in a hurry. If I want it spicier, I add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For a lighter version, I use light cream cheese and skip the heavy cream, replacing it with milk or extra broth.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. This chili also freezes well—perfect for meal prepping or saving for later.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, I’ve made it in the slow cooker by adding everything except the dairy, then cooking on low for 4–6 hours. I stir in the cream cheese and cream during the last 30 minutes.
What kind of chicken works best?
I usually use cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs. Rotisserie chicken also works great when I want to save time.
How spicy is Cajun White Chicken Chili?
It has a moderate kick. If I want it milder, I use less Cajun seasoning and choose mild green chilies. For extra heat, I add cayenne or hot sauce.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, I soak and cook them ahead of time. I just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the chili.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as I check the labels on the broth and Cajun seasoning to be sure.
Conclusion
Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, spicy, and filling—everything I look for in a comforting bowl of chili. Whether I’m making it for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is a creamy, spicy take on classic chili, featuring tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and bold Cajun seasoning. It’s a hearty, one-pot comfort food perfect for cozy nights or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cans white beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
- Add shredded chicken, white beans, and green chilies. Mix well.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and smooth.
- Simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, then adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- Add corn or bell peppers for more texture and sweetness.
- Substitute turkey or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust heat level with more or less Cajun seasoning or add cayenne for extra spice.
- Use light cream cheese and milk for a lighter version.
- This chili freezes well for future meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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