Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

Sizzling Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe for Spicy Comfort

Chili nights call for something special, and this cajun white chicken chili recipe delivers bold flavors that spark excitement at the dinner table.

Spicy and creamy, this dish blends hearty ingredients with a southern kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Tender chicken simmers alongside white beans, creating a rich and comforting meal that breaks away from traditional chili styles.

Fragrant spices dance through each spoonful, promising warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

The recipe balances heat and creaminess with expert precision, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Packed with protein and bursting with cajun-inspired zest, this chili transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Prepare to be transported to the vibrant kitchens of louisiana with this unforgettable comfort food.

Cajun White Chicken Chili That Warms You Up Fast

  • Boost Your Baking Skills: Discover the joy of creating restaurant-quality bread with minimal cooking expertise.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Transform simple pizza dough into gourmet garlic rosemary muffins that look and taste impressive without complicated techniques.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, game nights, or casual gatherings where everyone craves something deliciously savory and aromatic.
  • Customizable Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by switching herbs, adding cheese, or experimenting with different salt variations to match your taste preferences.

Key Ingredients for Cajun White Chicken Chili

Proteins:
  • Chicken: A lean and tender meat that provides the main protein base for the chili.
  • Andouille Sausage: A spicy Cajun sausage that adds robust flavor and depth to the dish.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Celery, Bell Pepper, Jalapeno: A classic vegetable blend that creates a flavorful and aromatic foundation for the chili.
  • Garlic: A pungent ingredient that enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Cilantro, Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that provide brightness and garnish to the final dish.
Liquid and Creamy Components:
  • Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that helps create the soup's base and adds richness.
  • White Beans: Provides protein, texture, and a creamy element to the chili.
  • Salsa Verde: A tangy green sauce that introduces additional flavor complexity.
  • Sour Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy ingredients that add richness and smooth texture to the chili.
Seasonings and Oils:
  • Cajun Seasoning, Cumin: Spices that give the chili its signature Cajun flavor profile.
  • Oil, Butter: Cooking fats used for sautéing and developing flavors.
  • Lime Juice: A fresh, acidic element that brightens the overall taste.

How to Cook Cajun White Chicken Chili the Right Way

Step 1: Fire Up the Sausage

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in andouille sausage and cook until it gets a beautiful golden-brown color.

Once done, scoop out the sausage and set it aside.

Step 2: Spice Up the Chicken

Add chicken to the same pot, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook until it’s perfectly browned and cooked through.

Transfer the chicken next to the sausage.

Step 3: Veggie Flavor Explosion

Melt butter in the pot and add these delicious vegetables:
  • Onion
  • Celery
  • Bell pepper
  • Jalapeno

Saute until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Aromatic Herb Dance

Toss in garlic, remaining Cajun seasoning, and cumin. Let it sizzle and release its incredible aroma for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Liquid Gold

Pour in these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Chicken broth
  • White beans
  • Salsa verde

Stir everything together with love.

Step 6: Reunion of Meats

Return the sausage and chicken to the pot.

Let everything simmer and get to know each other for 15-20 minutes.

Step 7: Creamy Transformation

Take the pot off the heat.

Swirl in sour cream and Parmesan cheese until the chili becomes smooth and luxuriously creamy.

Step 8: Final Flourish

Ladle the chili into bowls.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with:
  • Cilantro
  • Parsley
  • Green onions

Serve hot and enjoy the flavor explosion!

Tips for Spicing Up Cajun White Chicken Chili

  • Sear andouille sausage and chicken separately to develop deep, rich caramelized notes that enhance the overall taste of the chili.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning and jalapeno quantity to match your heat tolerance, creating a personalized spicy experience.
  • Use room temperature sour cream and slowly stir into the chili to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Add chopped cilantro, parsley, and green onions just before serving to introduce bright, crisp flavors and a pop of color.
  • This chili freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or make-ahead meal planning.

Flavor Twists to Try on Cajun White Chicken Chili

  • Vegetarian White Bean Chili: Replace chicken and sausage with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a complete vegetarian version.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain creamy texture and add nutritional value.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Brown meats and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing flavors to develop more deeply.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute white beans with cauliflower florets or zucchini chunks. Add extra protein by increasing chicken and sausage quantities for a heartier meal.

What to Serve with Cajun White Chicken Chili

  • Pair with Crisp Lager: Select a light, refreshing Mexican or American lager that cuts through the chili's rich, spicy flavors and cleanses the palate between bites.
  • Create Cornbread Companion: Whip up a slightly sweet, buttery cornbread with jalapeño chunks to complement the chili's Cajun profile and provide a perfect textural contrast.
  • Boost with Bright Salad: Toss a zesty green salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy lime vinaigrette to balance the chili's hearty and creamy elements.
  • Match with Chardonnay: Choose a lightly oaked Chardonnay with crisp acidity to harmonize with the dish's creamy texture and spicy undertones.

Proper Storage for Cajun White Chicken Chili

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping the chili's flavors locked in and ready for quick reheating.
  • Pour cooled chili into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving its delicious taste.
  • Pour chili into a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
  • Warm chili in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creamy consistency and prevent sticking.

FAQs

  • What is Cajun seasoning, and can I make my own?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne, and oregano. You can easily make your own by mixing these spices in equal proportions.

  • Is andouille sausage necessary for this recipe?

While andouille adds authentic Cajun flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa or another smoky sausage if andouille is unavailable. The key is using a sausage with good seasoning and texture.

  • How spicy is this white chicken chili?

The heat level depends on the jalapeno and Cajun seasoning. For less heat, remove jalapeno seeds or use less Cajun seasoning. For more kick, keep seeds or add extra cayenne pepper.

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Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe

Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe


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4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Cajun white chicken chili delivers a spicy southwestern comfort in one hearty bowl. Creamy, zesty flavors blend perfectly with tender chicken and aromatic spices, promising a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 pound (454 grams) andouille sausage, sliced

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

Broth, Beans, and Base:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans (15 ounces/425 grams each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup salsa verde
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Garnishes:

  • Fresh lime juice
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Warm a large Dutch oven over medium heat and drizzle with oil. Sizzle andouille sausage until deep golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a separate plate.
  2. In the same pot, introduce chicken seasoned with Cajun spice. Sear until thoroughly cooked and caramelized, then relocate with the sausage.
  3. Reduce heat and melt butter. Introduce diced onion, celery, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Soften vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Incorporate minced garlic, remaining Cajun seasoning, and ground cumin. Toast spices until aromatic, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stream chicken broth into the pot, followed by white beans and salsa verde. Blend ingredients thoroughly.
  6. Reintroduce sausage and chicken to the liquid mixture. Allow contents to gently simmer for 15-18 minutes, enabling flavors to intertwine.
  7. Remove from heat and whisk in sour cream and Parmesan cheese until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
  8. Distribute chili into serving bowls. Finish with a citrusy lime juice splash and garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, and sliced green onions.

Notes

  • Customize heat levels by adjusting the amount of jalapeño and Cajun seasoning for personal spice preferences.
  • Swap andouille sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner protein option without compromising flavor intensity.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce fat content while maintaining creamy texture and tangy taste.
  • Prepare chili in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify over time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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