mccormick white chicken chili recipe
The Best mccormick white chicken chili recipe
I’ve been making McCormick White Chicken Chili for years, and it’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. There’s something so comforting about the deep, smoky flavor of the chili powder, the creamy tang of the white sauce, and the way the chicken melts into the broth like it was made for you. My kids—especially the ones who usually only eat what’s on their plates—will eat their share just to get another helping. It’s that kind of dish that makes them sit back down for seconds, maybe even thirds, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s hearty enough to fill you up, but not so heavy that it feels like a chore to eat. Plus, it’s flexible—you can make it with chicken, turkey, or even beans if you’re feeling lighter, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
What really makes this recipe special is how easy it is to customize. I like to add some diced bell peppers or onions for extra crunch and color, and a splash of lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors without overpowering them. My husband swears by adding a handful of corn kernels for a touch of sweetness, and the kids love the way the jalapeños add a little kick if you include them. It’s a meal that’s simple but feels special, whether you’re feeding a big family or just yourself after a long day. And the best part? It’s packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the beans and chicken, so it’s not just tasty—it’s good for you too. No one has to feel guilty about eating it every week because it’s so nourishing in every way. Plus, the white sauce adds a creamy richness without needing heavy cream, so it’s lighter than traditional chili but still indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good about feeding your family without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor.

McCormick White Chicken Chili
A creamy, comforting chili featuring tender chicken, rich tomato base, and a hint of white cheddar for a satisfying, flavorful meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp McCormick seasoning blend
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup chicken milk (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
- Fresh cilantro
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken thighs with 4 cups of water, seasoning blend, garlic powder, onion powder, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken, shred with forks, and set aside.
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2 In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, diced green chiles, and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
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3 Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, and chicken milk. Stir thoroughly and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens slightly.
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4 Remove bay leaf, stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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5 Divide chili into serving bowls. Top each bowl with optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, hot sauce, or fresh cilantro.
🔧Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How McCormick White Chicken Chili Works
This McCormick White Chicken Chili is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still taste great, while still feeling special for any gathering. It’s hearty enough to satisfy big appetites without being too heavy, making it perfect for game days, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight meal when you need something comforting that won’t take forever. Plus, the mix of tender chicken, rich broth, and that perfect kick of white pepper keeps it fresh and flavorful every time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About McCormick White Chicken Chili
1. What ingredients are essential for making the classic Mccormick White Chicken Chili recipe?
The essential ingredients for the classic Mccormick White Chicken Chili recipe include: – 4 cups of chicken broth (low-sodium preferred) – 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces – 1 (15 oz) can of white beans (cannellini or great northern beans) – 1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred) – 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce – 1 packet (2 oz) of Mccormick White Chicken Chili Seasoning – 1 tbsp olive oil or butter – Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2. Can I substitute any ingredients in the Mccormick White Chicken Chili recipe?
Yes, you can make some substitutions to suit your preferences: – Chicken: You can use chicken thighs, ground chicken, or even turkey for a variation. – Beans: If you prefer kidney beans or black beans, they can be used instead of white beans. – Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned diced tomatoes. – Seasoning: While Mccormick’s seasoning is recommended, you can create a homemade blend using ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a bit of cayenne for heat. – Broth: Vegetable broth can be used if you prefer a vegetarian version.
3. How long does it cook for, and what is the recommended cooking time and temperature?
The Mccormick White Chicken Chili typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to cook. – Stovetop Method: Heat a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter, and cook the chicken until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside. – Simmer: In the same pot, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and the packet of seasoning. Stir well and bring to a boil. – Cook: Reduce the heat to low, add the white beans, and return the chicken to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally. – Check Temperature: If you prefer to use a stovetop oven method, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C), place the pot on a baking sheet, and bake for 25-35 minutes.
4. How can I make the Mccormick White Chicken Chili extra creamy?
To add creaminess to your chili, consider these tips: – Creamy Sauce: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or a can of coconut milk at the end of cooking. – Creamy Beans: Blend a portion of the beans with a splash of broth until smooth, then mix back into the chili. – Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese towards the end of cooking to melt and add richness. – Creamy Broth: Use a combination of broth and a small amount of milk or heavy cream at the beginning of the recipe for a smoother texture.
5. What are some great side dishes to pair with Mccormick White Chicken Chili?
Here are some excellent side dishes to complement your chili: – Cornbread: A classic pairing, especially homemade cornbread with a hint of sweetness. – Fresh Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness. – Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw balances the richness of the chili. – Crackers or Breadsticks: Perfect for scooping up extra chili. – Avocado Slices: Adds a refreshing crunch and healthy element. – Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: A tangy contrast enhances the flavors. – Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions can be sprinkled on top for added freshness.
6. Can I make Mccormick White Chicken Chili ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare Mccormick White Chicken Chili in advance. Here’s how to store it properly: – Short-term Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot through. – Long-term Storage: For longer storage, freeze the chili in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. – Preparation Tip: If you plan to freeze, let the chili cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals. You can also freeze it in portions to make individual servings easier.
7. How can I adjust the spice level in the Mccormick White Chicken Chili recipe?
The original Mccormick White Chicken Chili is mild, but you can easily add more heat: – Add Chili Peppers: Include diced jalapeños, serranos, or cayenne pepper while cooking. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne powder. – Spicy Seasoning: Mix in a bit of hot sauce, such as Tabasco, or use a chili powder blend for a deeper spice. – Fresh Chili: Add finely chopped fresh chili peppers (like serranos or habaneros) at the end of cooking. – Spicy Toppings: Top with sliced jalapeños, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sriracha before serving.
8. Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of Mccormick White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! Here’s how to make a vegetarian version: – Replace Chicken: Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based crumbles (like Beyond Meat or Impossible). – Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. – Vegetable Protein: Add cooked lentils, black beans, or chickpeas for extra protein and texture. – Seasoning Adjustment: Ensure your homemade seasoning blend includes veggie-friendly spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder without any meat-based additives. – Extra Flavor: Enhance with vegan cheese, nutritional yeast, or a splash of plant-based cream at the end.
