Looking for a cozy, creamy, flavor-packed meal that hits the spot every single time? This Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is your new go-to comfort food. It’s creamy, hearty, packed with protein, and super easy to whip up. If you love one-pot meals that come together fast but taste like you’ve been cooking all day, you’re going to fall in love with this one. Whether it’s for a quick family dinner, a weekend meal prep, or your next potluck dish—this white chili is a winner.
What makes this version so special? We’re leaning on the flavor power of Bush’s White Chili Beans, tender shredded chicken, creamy broth, and a blend of savory spices that warm you up from the inside out. It’s a perfect alternative when you’re tired of red chili or tomato-heavy soups. Plus, we’re staying pork-free, wine-free, and alcohol-free—so it’s totally family-friendly.
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Why This Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe Stands Out
There are tons of chili recipes out there, but what sets this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe apart is its perfect balance of creaminess and spice—without the heaviness. Using Bush’s beans gives it an edge. They’re already seasoned and packed with flavor, which means less work for you.
Another perk? It’s ultra-flexible. Don’t have fresh chicken? Use canned or rotisserie. Want it dairy-free? No problem. Plus, it reheats like a dream and even tastes better the next day.
Need something equally tasty but a bit different? You might also enjoy this best chicken chop recipe for a crispy, savory contrast.
Ingredients for Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
Here’s what you need to bring this creamy bowl of goodness to life. The beauty of this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is that the ingredient list is simple, and most of it’s probably in your pantry right now.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (15.5 oz) Bush’s White Chili Beans, undrained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup frozen corn (optional)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
If you’re looking to keep things even lighter, this low sodium chicken recipe collection is a great add-on to your weekly meal rotation.
Key Ingredient Spotlight: Bush’s White Chili Beans
The real MVP in this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is Bush’s White Chili Beans. They’re pre-seasoned with garlic, onion, and mild spices—giving your chili a head start on flavor. Unlike plain beans, these infuse every bite with a subtle smokiness and just the right amount of kick.
Can you use plain great northern or cannellini beans? Sure—but you’ll need to amp up the seasoning to match the depth Bush’s brings in one simple can. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this shortcut.
Can I Use Canned Chicken or Rotisserie?
Absolutely. This Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is all about flexibility. If you’re tight on time, canned chicken works just fine—just be sure to drain it well. Rotisserie chicken is even better; it adds richness and depth without much effort.
For more quick protein swaps, check out these smart ideas in our ground chicken and potato recipes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
Let’s break this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe down into easy steps. Even if you’re not super confident in the kitchen, you can handle this one—promise.
Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion, mincing your garlic, and shredding your chicken if it’s not already prepped. Set aside your spices, cream cheese, and dairy so they’re ready when you need them. Prep is half the battle in recipes like these.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken and Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Toss in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne if using. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds—just until the spices are fragrant.
Step 3: Simmering with Beans and Broth
Add the Bush’s White Chili Beans (undrained), diced green chilies, shredded chicken, corn (if using), and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together. Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 15–20 minutes to let all the flavors meld.
Step 4: Creamy Finish and Seasoning
Turn the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until fully melted and incorporated. Let it warm gently without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Craving more creamy goodness? You might also like our Bertolli chicken Alfredo recipe.
Cook Time and Serving Size for Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
One of the biggest advantages of this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is how quickly it comes together—without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something cozy, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6 generous bowls
Need something equally fast but with a different twist? This grilled chicken wrap recipe is another weeknight lifesaver. Both recipes work great for meal prep too!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
Even though this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is pretty forgiving, there are a few common pitfalls that can mess with the final dish. Let’s troubleshoot so you don’t end up with a bland or overly thick pot.
1. Using plain beans:
Skip this mistake by sticking with Bush’s White Chili Beans. Plain beans = bland chili. These beans are already seasoned and save you effort.
2. Not softening the cream cheese:
Tossing in cold cream cheese leads to clumps. Make sure it’s softened at room temp, or microwave it for 15–20 seconds.
3. Overcooking after adding dairy:
Once the cream cheese and sour cream go in, keep the heat low. A full boil can curdle the chili and mess with the texture.
4. Skipping seasoning adjustments:
Taste before serving. Sometimes beans or broth add salt, sometimes they don’t. A final pinch of salt or squeeze of lime can balance everything.
If you’ve ever wrestled with flavor balance before, you might also appreciate this highly customizable chicken of the sea recipe collection—it’s all about getting it just right.
Best Toppings for Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
This is where you can really have fun. The base chili is creamy and savory, but toppings take it to the next level. Here’s what works beautifully on this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe:
- Sliced avocado – adds creaminess and a cooling touch
- Fresh cilantro – brightens up the whole dish
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese – melty, cheesy goodness
- Tortilla strips or crushed chips – for that satisfying crunch
- Diced red onion – a pop of sharp flavor
- Jalapeño slices – bring on the heat if you want
- Fresh lime wedges – a squeeze balances the richness
Toppings are also a fun way to serve a crowd. Set up a toppings bar and let everyone customize their bowl.
Make-Ahead Tips for Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
Here’s the deal: this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe gets even better the next day. So yes—it’s 100% make-ahead friendly.
Make-Ahead Directions:
- Make the chili completely but stop before adding the dairy.
- Cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the cream cheese and sour cream just before serving.
This keeps the chili fresh and creamy, without any weird texture changes. You can also portion it out for lunches and reheat just what you need.
Looking for another make-ahead-friendly option? Check out this comfort classic: recipe for chicken pastry.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Got leftovers? Perfect. This Bush’s white chicken chili recipe keeps like a dream, which makes it a smart pick for meal preppers, busy families, or anyone who loves a hot lunch the next day.
Storage Tips:
- Let the chili cool completely before transferring to containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- For longer storage, freeze it (minus the dairy) in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
- On the stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- In the microwave: Reheat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
- If frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add sour cream or cream cheese after it’s fully reheated.
Looking for more freezer-friendly options? Try these bariatric chicken recipes that are just as convenient and delicious.
Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe Variations
The beauty of this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is how easy it is to adapt. You can tweak it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or even what’s left in the fridge. Here are a few of my go-to spins on the original:
Dairy-Free Version
Want to skip the creaminess but still enjoy the flavor? You totally can. Replace the cream cheese and sour cream with unsweetened canned coconut milk or a plant-based sour cream alternative. The texture changes slightly but it’s still comforting and rich.
Bonus: this also makes it easier on sensitive stomachs. If you’re eating lighter or going dairy-free, this pairs beautifully with something fresh like the chicken breakfast recipes lineup.
Spicy Southwest Twist
Craving bold heat and smoky vibes? Add these twists to the base Bush’s white chicken chili recipe:
- Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Use fire-roasted green chilies instead of regular
- Stir in chopped chipotle peppers in adobo
- Top with pepper jack cheese and sliced jalapeños
This version is especially good with a side of crispy hot honey chicken tenders to double down on flavor.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Believe it or not, you can turn this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe completely meatless and it’s still satisfying. Just skip the chicken and double up on the Bush’s White Chili Beans or add a can of drained cannellini beans. Vegetable broth steps in perfectly for chicken broth.
Serve with avocado, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips for a full meal—just like you would with the chicken version. It’s perfect for Meatless Monday or guests who skip meat.
Looking for even more meatless yet protein-packed ideas? Try these cottage cheese and chicken recipes and swap in more plant-based versions.
What to Serve with Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
Even though this dish is hearty on its own, the right sides can elevate your whole meal. Here are my favorite pairings that complement this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe perfectly—without stealing the spotlight.
1. Cornbread or Corn Muffins
The sweetness of cornbread is a dreamy contrast to the creamy, savory chili. Try jalapeño cheddar cornbread for a spicy kick!
2. Tortilla Chips and Salsa
Simple, crunchy, and always a hit. Great for scooping or dunking straight into your bowl.
3. Fresh Garden Salad
Balance out the richness with something crisp and refreshing—think romaine, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roast up some carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to add fiber and color to your plate.
5. Grilled Sandwiches or Wraps
A grilled cheese or a savory wrap makes a great side. You might love this easy grilled chicken wrap recipe for something filling and fast.
Looking for more side inspiration? This ground chicken pasta recipes collection also offers creative, filling ideas that work well for chili night too.
Final Thoughts on Bush’s White Chicken Chili Recipe
This isn’t just another chili recipe—it’s a flavorful, cozy meal that’ll become part of your rotation in no time. The creamy texture, quick prep, and customizable ingredients make it ideal for weeknights or weekend get-togethers.
And thanks to Bush’s seasoned white chili beans, you’re skipping a ton of guesswork. Whether you’re going spicy, dairy-free, or veggie-forward, there’s a version of this dish for everyone.
Still in the mood for bold chicken flavor? You’ll definitely want to explore this fiery and crowd-pleasing Franks buffalo chicken dip recipe—a perfect game-day sidekick.
Bonus Tip:
Hosting a chili night? Create a chili bar! Set out toppings like cheese, jalapeños, avocado, tortilla strips, and cilantro. Include a few sides like rice, salad, or wraps to round out the table. It’s fun, easy, and guaranteed to impress.
More Ways to Enjoy Leftover Chili
So, you’ve made a big batch of this tasty white chili and now you’ve got leftovers. Instead of just reheating it straight from the fridge, why not transform it into something fresh and fun? Leftovers from this dish are super versatile—here are a few ways to repurpose them.
1. Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Spoon your leftover chili over a hot baked potato. Top it with cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
2. Chili Quesadillas
Layer some chili and shredded cheese between two tortillas, then grill until golden. It’s fast, filling, and perfect for lunch.
3. White Chili Nachos
Spread out tortilla chips on a baking sheet, drizzle warmed-up chili over the top, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 5–7 minutes and finish with jalapeños and fresh cilantro.
4. Burrito Bowls
Scoop chili over cooked rice and add avocado, salsa, and shredded lettuce. You’ve got a full meal in minutes—no extra cooking required.
5. White Chili Pasta Bake
Mix chili with cooked pasta and a bit of extra broth or cream. Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly. It’s a creative twist for when you’re in the mood for something cozy and carby.
Need more creative leftovers inspiration? Try these incredible ground chicken and potato recipes or even blend the flavors into a creamy base like this chicken cottage cheese recipe.
Reader Tip: Crowd-Friendly Serving Ideas
If you’re making this dish for a party, you can easily double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker. Guests can serve themselves throughout the event—and it frees you up to actually enjoy your time.
Offer a toppings station with shredded cheese, hot sauce, cilantro, chopped onions, and lime wedges. It turns this comforting bowl into a customizable experience for everyone. Want even more meal ideas to add to your gathering? Don’t miss these popular favorites:
Nutritional Benefits
While exact values can vary based on how you prep it, a single bowl of this chili is typically:
- High in protein thanks to chicken and beans
- Rich in fiber from beans and corn
- Creamy but lighter than most cream-based soups
- Easy to make low-sodium or low-carb with a few swaps
If you’re following a specific eating plan—like a carnivore or high-protein diet—this chili checks a lot of boxes. You’ll also want to peek at our carnivore diet chicken recipes for more ideas.
Creative Pairings and Flavor Twists
Let’s say you’ve already mastered this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe—but you’re ready to push it just a little further. Here are some creative pairings and fun flavor twists to help you reinvent this dish every time you make it.
Pair with a Fresh Citrus Salad
Balance out the richness of the chili with something light and zesty. A citrus salad made with orange slices, arugula, and a light vinaigrette is refreshing and cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Bonus points if you top it with some crumbled feta or toasted pumpkin seeds.
Turn It Into Chili Mac
Yes, really. Combine your leftover chili with cooked elbow pasta or shells, stir in a little extra broth or shredded cheese, and you’ve got a hybrid comfort dish that feels like mac and cheese got cozy with chili. Super kid-friendly, too.
Serve with Garlic Bread or Flatbread
Most folks think of chili with cornbread, but garlic bread? Total game-changer. The contrast between the garlicky crunch and creamy chili is surprisingly addictive. Try this chicken cutlet sandwich recipe for another bold bread-based combo.
Add Rice for a More Filling Meal
Some people like chili thick, others like it more stew-like. If you’re in the second camp, serve your chili over cooked white rice or even quinoa. It stretches the portions and makes the dish even heartier.
Rice fans, don’t miss this reader favorite: The best Chicken Rice-A-Roni recipe—a comfort food classic worth pairing or rotating with your white chili nights.
Inspired by Global Flavors? Try These Add-ins
The base of this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is mild and flexible, so you can easily give it an international twist.
- Add garam masala or curry powder for an Indian-style warmth (like in these ground chicken Indian recipes).
- Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste and cumin for a Middle Eastern edge.
- Mix in chipotle powder and lime for Latin flavor.
Recipe Recap: Why You’ll Make This Over and Over Again
Just to sum it up, here’s why this recipe is such a winner:
- It’s quick and easy with pantry staples
- You can tweak it endlessly to suit your mood or dietary needs
- The creamy texture and seasoning are family-friendly
- Leftovers reheat beautifully and offer next-day magic
Still curious about more creamy-meets-savory meals? You might love this satisfying chick-fil-a market salad recipe for a lighter, fresh option to pair or follow up chili night with.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Bush’s white chicken chili recipe different from regular chili?
Bush’s white chicken chili recipe skips the tomato base and uses white beans, chicken, and a creamy broth for a milder, more comforting flavor. It’s less acidic than red chili, making it great for sensitive stomachs. Bush’s White Chili Beans add extra flavor with their mild seasoning, making this dish taste slow-cooked even when it’s ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust the spice level and still taste amazing.
2. Can I freeze Bush’s white chicken chili recipe?
Yes, you can freeze Bush’s white chicken chili recipe, but it’s best to do so before adding cream cheese or sour cream. Dairy tends to separate when frozen. Just cool the chili completely, pour into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve it, thaw in the fridge, reheat on the stove, then stir in the creamy ingredients. The texture stays smooth and the flavor holds up great.
3. Is Bush’s white chicken chili recipe spicy?
Bush’s white chicken chili recipe is mild by default, making it family-friendly and kid-approved. The canned green chilies and seasoning in Bush’s White Chili Beans add just a gentle warmth. Want to spice it up? Toss in diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder to your liking. It’s super easy to adjust. If you’re aiming for a bold flavor with a kick, pair it with spicy sides like buffalo dip or hot honey chicken.
4. Can I make Bush’s white chicken chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Bush’s white chicken chili recipe works beautifully in a slow cooker. Just add all ingredients—except the cream cheese and sour cream—into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the dairy during the last 15–30 minutes so it melts smoothly. This method gives the chicken a chance to soak up all that flavor, and it’s perfect for busy days or serving a crowd.
5. What should I serve with Bush’s white chicken chili recipe?
Bush’s white chicken chili recipe pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it over rice for a heartier meal or with a side of garlic bread. For extra fun, create a toppings bar with shredded cheese, lime wedges, avocado, cilantro, and hot sauce. Want more mealtime variety? Try pairing it with recipes like grilled chicken wraps or creamy chicken pasta for a full spread.
Conclusion
There’s a reason why this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe has become a weeknight favorite in so many homes. It’s creamy, comforting, and packs just the right amount of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner, prepping meals for the week, or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers every time.
With Bush’s White Chili Beans doing the heavy lifting on flavor and a simple list of pantry staples, it’s hard to mess this one up. Plus, you can tweak it endlessly—dairy-free, spicy, meatless—you name it. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
So go ahead, grab a pot and your favorite toppings, and give this Bush’s white chicken chili recipe a try. You won’t believe how much flavor is packed into such a simple, satisfying bowl.
Have questions or your own spin on the recipe? Share it in the comments—we love seeing your kitchen creations!