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Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

A creamy and spicy Cajun White Chicken Chili featuring tender shredded chicken, white beans, and a flavorful blend of Cajun seasoning, cream cheese, and fresh cilantro. This hearty and comforting chili is perfect for a cozy dinner with a zesty kick.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts or thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics

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

Beans and Broth

  • 2 cups white beans (cannellini or great northern)
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Others

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

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Season 2 large chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and shred it once slightly cooled.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Sauté until vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Broth, Beans, and Seasoning: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, add 2 cups white beans, and the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
  5. Simmer the Chili: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken the chili.
  6. Add Creaminess: Stir in 4 ounces cream cheese and 0.5 cup heavy cream until fully melted and the chili is smooth and creamy.
  7. Brighten the Flavors: Stir in 1 tablespoon lime juice to add a fresh, bright note to the chili.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, extra jalapeño slices if desired, and lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • For more heat, add extra jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To make it gluten free, verify that the Cajun seasoning does not contain gluten.