This hearty white chicken chili combines tender chicken breasts, white beans, green chiles, and Monterey Jack cheese in a rich, smooth broth thickened with a light butter-and-flour roux. It's an easy, satisfying one-pot meal for family dinners, game days, and casual entertaining.
3largeboneless skinless chicken breastscut into bite-sized pieces
32ounceschicken broth
416-ounce cansnavy beansdrained (rinse, if desired)
1tablespoonground cumin
½teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonground black pepper
8ouncesmild diced green chiles
3cupsshredded Monterey Jack cheese
2cupsheavy cream
8ouncessour cream
Optional Garnishes
Additional shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Lime wedges
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux becomes lightly golden.
Add the diced onion and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender and translucent.
Add the chicken pieces and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the exterior is no longer pink.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to incorporate the roux and prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add the drained navy beans, cumin, salt, pepper, and green chiles. Stir until thoroughly combined.
Simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
Add the heavy cream and sour cream, stirring gently until smooth and thoroughly heated. Avoid boiling.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional cheese, sour cream, parsley, cilantro, or jalapeños.