Award Winning White Chicken Chili

That's right, this chili is award-winning! Okay, technically it was from my daughter’s elementary school chili cook-off, but still. Two years in a row. That’s right, friends. This White Chicken Chili took home not one, but two trophies. One of them said Best Overall Chili, which, if you ask me, basically makes it a national title. Or at least a regional one. (Fine, it was the PTA, but still a major award.)

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Course Christmas, Crowd Pleasers, High Protein, Main Course, One Pot Meals, Soup, Weeknight Meals

Cuisine Southern Comfort Food, Texan

Servings 6 people

Equipment

1 Large Dutch Oven

Ingredients

1 bell pepper, chopped I use green
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon avocado oil
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 tablespoon creole or cajun seasoning (I use Tony's)
1 28 oz can Blue Runner Creole Mirepoix Navy Beans
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoon cream cheese (must be room temperature)
1 pkg Carroll Shelby's White Chicken Chili Mix

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat avocado oil over medium heat.
Add chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
Add chicken (or rotisserie chicken) and season everything with your creole/cajun seasoning of choice.
Stir in your beans, bone broth and cream cheese.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently bubble for about 30 minutes.

That’s it. You’ve got yourself a bowl of chili that could technically win you an award. Results may vary depending on PTA judges and school cafeteria lighting.

Notes

When the weather cools down and comfort food cravings hit, this easy White Chicken Chili recipe is the answer. It’s cozy, creamy, and filled with bold flavor, making it one of my favorite fall dinner ideas. This is the kind of bowl that feels like it’s been simmering all day, even though it comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a game day party, or looking for a quick cozy meal, this award-winning chili is going to be a new go-to.

I love using Carroll Shelby's White Chicken Chili mix, because they really have perfected the seasoning blend! If you can't find it anywhere, here is a great alternative recipe:

2 teaspoon oregano
2 teaspoon onion powder
3 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (less if you want it milder)
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoon cornstarch

Every year my daughter’s school hosts their big fall chili cook-off. You know the one with slow cookers lining the cafeteria tables, a few rogue dads sneaking in brisket, and at least one kid running around with a ladle. I didn’t go in expecting much, but when that first judge took a bite, I saw it in their eyes. This wasn’t your average chili.

White Chicken Chili Award Winning — Award Winning White Chicken Chili

This recipe has become a family favorite ever since. It’s cozy, creamy, and has just enough Creole flavor to keep things interesting. It tastes like it’s been simmering all day, but it comes together in about an hour which makes it perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want a bowl of comfort that feels a little “award-worthy.”

Also cooks beautifully in a slow cooker! Cook all of the ingredients on low for 4 hours.

Why You’ll Love It

This White Chicken Chili is the definition of easy fall comfort food. It’s hearty without being heavy, has a cozy Southern twist, and somehow tastes like you spent all afternoon making it. The Creole Trinity & Herb Blend gives it depth, while the cream cheese adds that creamy finish everyone loves.

Pair it with cornbread, top it with shredded cheese, sour cream and sliced jalapeños, and get ready for the compliments to roll in. Bonus points if you print your own “Major Award” certificate for the fridge. Just saying.

Save this recipe, and share it with a friend!

Because sure, it started as a little school chili cook-off win, but around here, it’s a major award.

Keyword chili, soup, weeknight dinner, weeknight meals, white chicken chili