Creamy White Chicken Chili with Bone Broth and Monterey Jack Cheese

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Bone Broth and Monterey Jack Cheese is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a creamy, cheesy base infused with bold southwestern spices. Made with nutrient-rich bone broth and smooth melted cheese, this chili is hearty enough for cold nights yet light enough to enjoy year-round. I love how it warms me from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this chili because it’s incredibly satisfying without being heavy. The bone broth adds depth and nourishment, while the Monterey Jack cheese brings a mild, creamy melt that balances the spices beautifully. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and always a crowd-pleaser at the table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil or butter

• Onion, diced

• Garlic, minced

• Jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)

• Cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover works great)

• Cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed

• Green chiles, diced (canned)

• Bone broth (chicken)

• Ground cumin

• Dried oregano

• Ground coriander

• Salt and black pepper

• Cream cheese, softened

• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Lime juice (for brightness)

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño until soft and fragrant.

2. I stir in the green chiles, cumin, oregano, coriander, salt, and pepper, letting the spices bloom for a minute.

3. I add the shredded chicken, white beans, and bone broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. I stir in the cream cheese and let it melt completely, then I pour in the cream and stir until smooth.

5. I reduce the heat and add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until fully melted and the chili is creamy.

6. I squeeze in some lime juice to brighten the flavors and taste for seasoning.

7. I ladle it into bowls and top with chopped cilantro, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if I like.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 40 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes to cook.

Variations

• I add corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.

• For a thicker chili, I mash some of the beans before stirring them in.

• I swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free option if needed.

• A pinch of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth.

• I top it with sliced avocado or crushed tortilla chips for added richness and crunch.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to maintain the creamy texture. It also freezes well—I let it cool completely, portion it out, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, I simmer raw boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the broth until fully cooked, then shred and return to the pot before adding the dairy.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I combine everything except the cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. I stir in the dairy during the last 30 minutes.

What makes this chili white?

Unlike traditional chili, this version skips the tomatoes and uses white beans, light-colored chicken, and cream to create a pale, creamy base.

Is bone broth necessary?

I prefer it for its added flavor and health benefits, but regular chicken broth works just fine.

How spicy is it?

It has a mild heat from green chiles and optional jalapeño. I adjust the spice level easily by adding more or less based on my preference.

Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Chili with Bone Broth and Monterey Jack Cheese is the ultimate cozy bowl of goodness. It’s rich without being too heavy, flavorful without being fussy, and nourishing thanks to wholesome ingredients like bone broth and white beans. I love making it for family dinners, cozy weekends, or anytime I want something comforting and delicious in one pot.