Name: Cajun White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed); 1 medium white onion (diced); 4 medium celery ribs (sliced); 1 medium green bell pepper (diced); 1 medium jalapeño (minced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 (15 ounce) cans great northern beans (drained); Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk

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If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Cajun White Chicken Chili is not just any chili; it’s a delightful twist on the classic that brings warmth and a little kick to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy goodness—all in just 40 minutes! Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a favorite.

What makes this Cajun White Chicken Chili truly special is how easy it is to whip up. With ingredients you probably already have on hand, you can create a comforting bowl of chili that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re serving it at a casual get-together or enjoying it on a chilly evening at home, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of spices adds excitement without overwhelming the taste buds—great for kids and adults alike!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this chili in advance and reheat it for an even more flavorful meal later.
Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and rich flavors, this chili will keep you full and happy.
Versatile Ingredients: You can adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This Cajun White Chicken Chili is all about fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed)
16 ounces andouille sausage (sliced)
1 medium white onion (diced)
4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
1 medium green bell pepper (diced)
1 medium jalapeno (minced)
4 cloves minced garlic

For the Seasoning

2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Broth

4 cups chicken broth
2 (15 ounce cans) great northern beans (drained)

For the Finish

1/2 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
1/2 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up and personalize it to your liking.

Swap the protein: Try using turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option or go vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely.
Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or diced tomatoes for added sweetness and texture.
Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave out the jalapeño.
Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a deliciously creamy consistency without dairy.

How to Make Cajun White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Sausage

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in your cubed chicken breast along with sliced sausage. Cooking these together not only flavors the oil but also gives both proteins a nice browning—about 5–7 minutes should do until everything is cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Next, toss in your diced onion, sliced celery, diced bell pepper, and minced jalapeño. Stirring frequently will help soften these veggies within about 5 minutes. This step builds a wonderful base packed with flavor that balances perfectly with the meat.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Now it’s time to bring in those aromatic spices! Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and flour. Cook for another minute or two while stirring constantly; this helps release their essential oils and deepen their flavors.

Step 4: Create Your Chili Base

Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while stirring. Then add your drained great northern beans. Bring everything to a simmer before lowering your heat. Letting it cook for around 10 minutes allows all those lovely flavors to meld together wonderfully.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Cream

Finally, stir in your raw shrimp and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and fully cooked through. The cream adds richness that complements all those spices beautifully. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is sure to warm your heart as much as it fills your belly. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Cajun White Chicken Chili

Making Cajun White Chicken Chili is a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices enhance the flavor profile, making your chili taste vibrant and delicious. Look for high-quality produce at your local market!
Adjust the heat: Taste as you go! If you prefer a spicier chili, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add more jalapeño. On the other hand, if you’re more sensitive to heat, start with less and adjust to your liking.
Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer for a while after adding the broth helps all those wonderful flavors meld together. This patience will reward you with a richer taste!
Serve it hot: Chili is best served steaming hot, so be sure to keep it warm until you’re ready to serve. This ensures every spoonful is comforting and satisfying.
Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes! Trying different toppings can bring new textures and flavors to your chili experience.

How to Serve Cajun White Chicken Chili

Serving Cajun White Chicken Chili is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary items that enhance its rich flavor. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal note that brightens up each bite.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy goodness balances the spice while adding a smooth texture.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brings zingy freshness that elevates the entire dish.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, offering a comforting contrast in flavors.
Rice: A bed of fluffy rice can help soak up the delicious broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and coolness, providing a nice balance against the heat of the chili.
Mixed green salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty nature of the chili.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends at your next gathering! Enjoy every bowl of this warm, comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cajun White Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also a dish that keeps well in the fridge and can be easily frozen for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For best results, use glass containers for easy reheating.

Freezing

Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers, as the chili will expand when frozen.
Label each container with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cajun White Chicken Chili.

Can I make this Cajun White Chicken Chili without shrimp?

Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp or substitute it with another protein like diced chicken or even some extra veggies for a hearty option.

How spicy is this Cajun White Chicken Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeño.

Can I prepare this Cajun White Chicken Chili in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

What can I serve with Cajun White Chicken Chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cajun White Chicken Chili as much as my family does! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms your heart and fills your belly. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to try new variations—your kitchen adventure awaits!

Cajun White Chicken Chili

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun

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Description

If you’re craving a hearty meal that combines bold flavors with comforting warmth, look no further than this Cajun White Chicken Chili. This delightful twist on traditional chili features tender chicken, zesty spices, and a creamy finish—all ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish will quickly become a staple at your dinner table. Whether you serve it for a casual get-together or enjoy it on a chilly evening, this chili is sure to impress everyone with its rich taste and satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed)
1 medium white onion (diced)
4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
1 medium green bell pepper (diced)
1 medium jalapeño (minced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 (15 ounce) cans great northern beans (drained)
Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk

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Instructions

In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add cubed chicken and sauté until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in diced onion, sliced celery, bell pepper, and minced jalapeño; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and spices; cook for an additional minute.
Pour in chicken broth and add drained beans. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat; cook for about 10 minutes.
If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for added creaminess. Serve hot.