Cajun White Chicken Chili

Cajun White Chicken Chili is a comforting, creamy, spicy twist on classic white chicken chili, loaded with tender shredded chicken, white beans, corn, green chilies, and bold Cajun spices. The first time I made this version, I fell in love with how the Cajun seasoning transformed a mild, comforting chili into something exciting and full of depth. It’s rich, hearty, and warming, with just enough heat to make every spoonful interesting but still family-friendly. The cream cheese melts into the broth, giving the chili a thick, velvety texture, while the Cajun spices bring smokiness, heat, and savory flavor. This is the perfect dinner on a cold night, and it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and blend together.

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Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans, lightly mashed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional for extra heat)
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Preparation Steps

STEP 1: SEAR AND COOK THE CHICKEN

• Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
• Add chicken breasts or thighs and sear 2–3 minutes per side for improved flavor.
• Remove and set aside.

STEP 2: BUILD THE FLAVOR BASE

• Add diced onion, green pepper, and garlic to the pot.
• Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
• Cook spices 30 seconds to bloom flavor.

STEP 3: ADD BROTH, BEANS & CHILIES

• Pour in chicken broth.
• Add whole white beans, mashed beans, corn, and diced green chilies.
• Return seared chicken to the pot and submerge.

STEP 4: SIMMER

• Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender.
• Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the pot.

STEP 5: MAKE IT CREAMY

• Add cubed cream cheese and stir until fully melted.
• Add shredded cheese and mix until thick and creamy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

STEP 6: SERVE

• Spoon chili into bowls and top with green onions, parsley, cheese, or tortilla strips.

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Variations

• Add sausage for extra Cajun flavor
• Swap shredded chicken for turkey
• Add diced jalapeños or habanero for heat
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar
• Add lime juice for brightness
• Make it thicker by adding extra mashed beans

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cornbread or biscuits
• Add tortilla strips or crushed chips
• Top with avocado slices
• Serve over rice for a Cajun chili bowl
• Garnish with cheddar, parsley, or jalapeños

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approx. 430 calories – 34g protein – 17g fat – 33g carbs

Conclusion

Cajun White Chicken Chili is a creamy, bold, and satisfying twist on classic white chili, bringing together tender chicken, hearty beans, melty cheese, and smoky Cajun spices in one comforting pot. It’s easy to make, full of warmth, and perfect for busy nights or cozy winter dinners. With customizable spice levels and a rich, velvety texture, this chili quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

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