There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken and hearty beans. Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is the kind of recipe that feels like a cozy hug on a cold day. It’s simple to prepare, thanks to the Instant Pot, and perfect for a quick family dinner or feeding a crowd.

The first time I made this chili, I was amazed at how the flavors came together so effortlessly. The creamy broth, spiced with just the right amount of kick, and the tender chunks of chicken made it an instant favorite at our table.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Add toppings, adjust the heat, or even make it dairy-free—it’s your chili, your way. Let’s get cooking and bring some comfort to the table with Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili.

Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili combines shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a creamy, spiced broth in a quick, one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a warm, hearty dish in a hurry.

An Exciting Story

The first time I made Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, it was a snowy evening, and we needed something hearty but simple. My husband loved how rich and creamy it was, and the kids had fun adding their favorite toppings. Now, it’s one of our go-to comfort meals for chilly nights.

Why This Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili?

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot does all the work for you.
• Creamy and Flavorful: A rich, spiced broth with tender chicken and beans.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

What You Need for Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

• For the Chili:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground coriander (optional)
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
  • 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
• For the Creamy Base:
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Tortilla chips

How to Make Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Ingredients:
   • Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the onions. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and coriander. Add the green chilies, white beans, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pressure Cook:
   • Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release.
4. Shred the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Make It Creamy:
   • Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half and mix well. Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili is heated through.
6. Serve and Top:
   • Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, cilantro, or tortilla chips. Serve warm.

Tips for Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken—just add it after pressure cooking.
2. Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Substitutions and Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with diced sweet potatoes or extra beans, and use vegetable broth.
• Add Corn: Stir in 1 cup of frozen or canned corn for added sweetness and texture.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-sodium chicken broth.
• Replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk.
• Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Closing for Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili:

And there you have it—Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili, a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for warming up chilly evenings. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our easy, comforting recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?
Yes, cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, use frozen chicken breasts or thighs and increase the pressure cooking time to 15 minutes.

What beans work best?
Cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans are ideal for this recipe.

How do I make it thicker?
Mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).

Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, the chili will still be delicious, but less creamy. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative.

What pairs well with this chili?
Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors develop even more when made ahead. Simply reheat and serve.

What’s a fun serving idea?
Serve the chili in bread bowls or top with a dollop of sour cream and crushed tortilla chips for a festive touch.

How do I make it kid-friendly?
Reduce the spices slightly and let kids add their favorite toppings like cheese or mild salsa.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your Instant Pot is large enough, double the ingredients and keep the cooking time the same.

Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Chili:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp ground coriander (optional)

• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies

• 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed

• 3 cups chicken broth

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• For the Creamy Base:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheese

• Sliced jalapeños

• Chopped cilantro

• Lime wedges

• Tortilla chips

Directions

• Sauté Aromatics:
• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Add Ingredients:
• Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the onions. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and coriander. Add the green chilies, white beans, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
• Pressure Cook:
• Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release.
• Shred the Chicken:
• Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
• Make It Creamy:
• Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half and mix well. Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili is heated through.
• Serve and Top:
• Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, cilantro, or tortilla chips. Serve warm.