Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe

The Creamiest Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe Ever Made

Comfort meets healthy eating in this mouthwatering low-carb white chicken chili recipe that’ll satisfy your craving for hearty flavor.

Packed with tender chicken and creamy goodness, this chili breaks all the traditional rules.

Rich spices dance through each spoonful, creating a warm and inviting meal.

The low-carb approach ensures you can indulge without guilt, making it perfect for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.

Protein-rich and bursting with zesty southwestern notes, this chili delivers maximum taste with minimal carbs.

Every bite promises a delightful balance of heat and smoothness that will keep you coming back for more.

FAQs

  • Is this chili truly low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be low-carb by avoiding beans and using high-fat, low-carb ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream.

  • Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can save time and still provide delicious flavor.

  • How can I make this chili spicier?

Add extra green chilies, a dash of cayenne pepper, or include some jalapeños during the cooking process to increase the heat level.

  • What are the main protein sources in this white chicken chili?

The primary protein comes from chicken, which provides a lean and filling base for the chili while keeping the dish low-carb and nutritious.

Low-Carb White Chicken Chili That Satisfies

  • Simplify Keto Cooking: This recipe transforms complex low-carb cooking into an easy, one-pot wonder that anyone can master without advanced culinary skills.
  • Quick Comfort Meal: Packed with tender shredded chicken and creamy texture, this chili delivers restaurant-quality flavor in less than thirty minutes from start to finish.
  • Family-Friendly Flexibility: Customize with optional toppings like cilantro or lime juice, making it adaptable for picky eaters while keeping the core recipe satisfying for everyone.
  • Nutritious Low-Carb Solution: Provides a hearty, protein-rich meal that supports ketogenic diet goals without sacrificing taste or feeling deprived of traditional comfort food.

Key Ingredients for Low-Carb White Chili Bowls

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that provides the main body and texture of the chili.
Aromatic Vegetables:
  • Onions, Garlic: Add depth of flavor and create a savory foundation for the chili.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cumin, Chili Powder: Provide warm, earthy undertones and classic southwestern flavor profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall taste of the dish.
Liquid and Creamy Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Creates the liquid base and adds additional chicken flavor.
  • Green Chilies: Introduce a mild, tangy heat to the chili.
  • Cream Cheese, Heavy Cream: Contribute a rich, smooth texture and creamy consistency.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Cilantro, Lime Juice: Offer a bright, fresh finish to the chili.

Making Low-Carb White Chicken Chili at Home

Step 1: Heat Up the Flavor Base

Grab a large pot and drizzle some oil.

Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic.

Sizzle and stir these aromatics until they become translucent and release their mouth-watering fragrance.

Step 2: Build the Protein Foundation

Add these ingredients to the pot:
  • Tender chicken pieces
  • Rich chicken broth
  • Zesty green chilies
  • Warm cumin
  • Spicy chili powder

Let everything simmer and dance together until the chicken becomes perfectly tender and easily falls apart.

Step 3: Transform the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot.

Shred the meat using two forks, creating delicate, juicy strands.

Return these shredded pieces back into the bubbling mixture.

Step 4: Create Creamy Magic

Introduce velvety cream cheese and luxurious heavy cream into the pot.

Stir gently until the sauce becomes silky smooth and irresistibly creamy.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Sprinkle in salt and pepper.

Feel free to experiment with additional spices that spark your taste buds.

Taste and adjust until the flavors sing.

Step 6: Let the Chili Develop Depth

Allow the chili to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken into a luscious consistency.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Optional but recommended: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and squeeze a bright lime wedge over the top for a burst of freshness.

Pro Tricks for Creamy Low-Carb White Chili

  • Use coconut cream or almond milk-based cream cheese for dairy-free version while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Adjust green chilies and chili powder to match your heat preference, adding gradually for perfect flavor balance.
  • Incorporate extra protein by adding diced bell peppers or using chicken thighs for richer taste and texture.
  • Make a larger batch and freeze portions for easy weeknight dinners, storing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Roast green chilies beforehand or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for deeper, more complex taste profile.

Creative Ways to Change Low-Carb Chili Flavor

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth for a plant-based version that maintains the chili's creamy texture and spicy flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream and coconut milk instead of heavy cream, creating a rich, allergen-friendly option that keeps the low-carb profile.
  • Keto-Friendly Boost: Add extra high-fat ingredients like chopped bacon, additional heavy cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to increase the fat content and make the chili more ketogenic.
  • Spice Level Variation: Incorporate different peppers like jalapeños or chipotle for a more intense heat, or use milder green chilies for a gentler flavor profile that suits sensitive palates.

Ideas for Serving Low-Carb White Chicken Chili

  • Cozy Game Night Companion: Serve this chili during board game sessions for a hearty, warming meal that keeps everyone satisfied between competitive rounds.
  • Keto-Friendly Topping Bar: Create a customizable topping station with sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits to let everyone personalize their bowl.
  • Protein-Packed Meal Prep: Portion the chili into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during busy work weeks, staying true to low-carb nutritional goals.
  • Weekend Comfort Food Feast: Pair with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad to create a complete, nutritious meal that feels indulgent without breaking your carb budget.

Low-Carb White Chili Storage for Freshness

  • Transfer cooled chili to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the lid tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Pour chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal carefully, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.
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Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe

Low-Carb White Chicken Chili Recipe


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4.9 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty White Chicken Chili delivers comfort without carbs, blending Mexican-inspired flavors into a protein-packed meal. Creamy, spicy, and nutritious, this chili will satisfy hunger while keeping health goals on track.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (full-fat)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, optional)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 cans (4 ounces each) green chiles (diced)
  • 1 avocado (optional, sliced for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (fresh, chopped)

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons cumin (ground)
  • 1 teaspoon oregano (dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions

  1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat, sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add raw chicken pieces, chicken broth, diced green chilies, ground cumin, and chili powder to the pot, stirring to combine and ensuring chicken is fully submerged.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 15-20 minutes, periodically stirring, until chicken becomes tender and easily pulls apart.
  4. Using two forks, carefully shred the cooked chicken directly in the pot, maintaining the liquid consistency.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low and incorporate cream cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and integrated into the broth.
  6. Pour in heavy cream, gently mixing to create a smooth, creamy texture throughout the chili.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting spices to personal taste preference.
  8. Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the liquid slightly reduce.
  9. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Swap cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream to accommodate vegan or lactose-intolerant diets.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breast meat for extra moisture and richer flavor that prevents dry, stringy chicken.
  • Boost protein without adding carbs by incorporating diced cauliflower or zucchini during the simmering stage for added texture and nutrition.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder and selecting mild or spicy green chilies to suit individual spice preferences.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 330 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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