Name: Cajun White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen corn; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Hey y’all! If you love a bowlful of creamy, spicy goodness, this Cajun White Chicken Chili is calling your name. With tender Chicken, zesty Cajun spices, creamy white beans, and a kick of heat, this chili is a cozy weeknight hero or game-day showstopper. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cajun White Chicken Chili

Bold Flavor: The perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and smoky Cajun spices in every spoonful.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes with straightforward steps and minimal cleanup.
Hearty & Satisfying: Protein-packed chicken and fiber-rich beans keep you full and happy.
Versatile: Easily adapted for spicy lovers or kids; swap proteins or make it dairy-free.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or chilly nights in.

Ingredients for Cajun White Chicken Chili

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 (15-oz) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-oz) can sweet corn, drained
1 (4-oz) can diced green chilies
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cajun White Chicken Chili: Directions

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables and Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chicken cubes and cook, stirring, until lightly browned (4–5 minutes). Chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 2: Simmer the Chili

Add beans, corn, green chilies, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Add Creaminess

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted and incorporated, about 3 minutes.
Stir in sour cream and lime juice. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve Cajun White Chicken Chili

Ladle chili into bowls. Garnish with shredded cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, or more lime, if desired.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 6

Notes: Tips for the Best Cajun White Chicken Chili

For extra creaminess, blend 1 cup of the beans with some broth before adding back to the pot (see how to puree soup).
Control the spice by adjusting the Cajun seasoning or adding a diced jalapeño.
Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version; just add after sautéing the vegetables (read more tips).

Variations: Cajun White Chicken Chili Your Way

Seafood Style: Substitute cubed shrimp or crawfish for chicken for a coastal Cajun twist.
Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra beans and diced zucchini for a hearty plant-based chili.
Cheesy Kick: Stir in 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack or cheddar cheese before serving for a richer texture.

Required Equipment for Cajun White Chicken Chili

Large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons and cups
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Ladle
Blender (optional, for extra creaminess)

Storage Instructions for Cajun White Chicken Chili

Let chili cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Cajun White Chicken Chili

Top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, creamy avocado slices, or extra cheese.
Pair with warm cornbread, rice, or crunchy tortilla chips.
Serve with a crisp green salad or a citrusy slaw for brightness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cajun White Chicken Chili

Don’t overcook the chicken: Simmer just until tender to keep it juicy (learn more about chicken basics).
Use room temperature cream cheese: This helps it melt smoothly into the chili for velvety texture.
Add lime juice last: Stir in just before serving for a bright, fresh lift of flavor.

FAQ: Cajun White Chicken Chili

Can I make Cajun White Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?: Yes! Sauté vegetables and chicken first, then add all ingredients except dairy to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in cream cheese and sour cream at the end.
Is Cajun White Chicken Chili very spicy?: It’s moderate in heat, but you can adjust the Cajun seasoning or add jalapeños for extra spice, or tone down for kids.
Can I use leftover chicken?: Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken works well and makes the recipe even faster to prepare.