Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish, combining the creamy richness of white chili with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine. Packed with tender chicken, white beans, and just the right amount of heat, this dish brings warmth and excitement to the table. I make it when I want something cozy with a spicy kick.

Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this chili takes a familiar comfort food and gives it a whole new personality. The Cajun seasoning brings in a smoky, peppery depth, while the creamy base keeps everything smooth and soothing. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also versatile enough to pair with cornbread, rice, or a simple salad. And the best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • White beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed

  • Chicken broth

  • Onion, diced

  • Garlic, minced

  • Green chilies (mild or hot, depending on preference)

  • Cream cheese

  • Heavy cream or half-and-half

  • Olive oil or butter

  • Cajun seasoning

  • Cumin

  • Salt and pepper

  • Optional: lime juice, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices for garnish

Directions

  1. I start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat and sautéing the onion until soft.

  2. I add garlic, Cajun seasoning, cumin, and cook for another minute to bloom the spices.

  3. Next, I stir in the green chilies, white beans, and chicken.

  4. I pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

  5. After about 10–15 minutes, I reduce the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

  6. I finish by adding a splash of heavy cream, and let it simmer another 5 minutes until everything is thick and creamy.

  7. Before serving, I like to add a squeeze of lime juice and top with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cook time takes approximately 25–30 minutes. I usually have it ready to serve in just under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.

Variations

  • I swap out chicken for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.

  • For extra heat, I toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

  • I sometimes blend a portion of the chili to thicken it even more while keeping some whole beans and chicken chunks.

  • Adding corn gives it a bit of sweetness and extra texture.

  • I’ve even made a dairy-free version using coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese—it works surprisingly well.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to keep the cream base from separating. If it gets too thick, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. This chili also freezes well—though I usually freeze it before adding the cream and stir that in fresh after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, I can simmer raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth until fully cooked, then shred and return them to the pot.

What makes this chili “Cajun”?

The Cajun seasoning gives it that signature Southern flavor—usually a blend of paprika, garlic powder, pepper, oregano, and cayenne.

Is it spicy?

It has a gentle heat, but I adjust the spice level based on how much Cajun seasoning and chilies I use.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I add all the ingredients except the cream cheese and cream, cook on low for 4–6 hours, then stir in the dairy at the end before serving.

What should I serve with this chili?

I like it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over white rice. A side salad or simple steamed veggies make great pairings too.

Conclusion

Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—with a spicy twist. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor, yet still easy enough for any night of the week. I love how customizable it is, and it always hits the spot whether I’m cooking for my family or just making a cozy meal for myself. Once I made it, it instantly earned a spot in my regular rotation.

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Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight

Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight

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Cajun White Chicken Chili Delight is a bold and creamy comfort dish that combines tender shredded chicken, white beans, and zesty Cajun seasoning. It’s a hearty, one-pot meal with just the right amount of heat and Southern flair.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (4 oz) green chilies (mild or hot)
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: lime juice, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in green chilies, white beans, and shredded chicken.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese. Cook, stirring, until fully melted and incorporated.
  6. Add heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes until thick and creamy.
  7. Before serving, add lime juice and garnish with cilantro, shredded cheese, and jalapeño slices if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or sausage instead of chicken for variation.
  • Blend a portion of the chili for a thicker texture.
  • Add corn for sweetness and extra texture.
  • Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese.
  • Freeze before adding cream for better texture upon reheating.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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