Keto White Chicken Chili — rich, creamy, hearty, and absolutely perfect for chilly winter days. This low-carb version brings together tender shredded chicken, green chilies, warming spices, and a luxuriously creamy broth without a single bean. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes!
See the full recipe below 👇
Winter meals have always held a special place in my heart, especially the warm and cozy ones you can enjoy wrapped in a blanket. Last December, I tried a traditional white chicken chili recipe, but dairy-heavy and high-carb beans didn’t fit keto at all. So I recreated it: no beans, extra creaminess, and deeper flavors. After a few tweaks—adding green chilies, a splash of cream, and my favorite spices—it became one of the most comforting winter bowls I’ve ever made. Now, this Keto White Chicken Chili is a regular in my weekly rotation every winter.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro & jalapeño slices for topping
👨🍳 Instructions — Step by Step
How to Make Keto White Chicken Chili
- Sauté the onion & garlic
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium flame. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Now add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor. - Add the spices
Add cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder (optional). Mix and cook for 20–30 seconds. Blooming the spices gives a deeper flavor. - Add shredded chicken
Add cooked shredded chicken to the pot. Mix well so the chicken absorbs the spices. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. - Add green chilies + broth
Pour in 1 can diced green chilies and 1 cup chicken broth. Mix everything and let it heat for 2–3 minutes. - Add the cream cheese
Add softened cream cheese in small cubes. Let it melt slowly on medium-low heat. Keep stirring so it mixes smoothly without lumps. - Pour in heavy cream
After the cream cheese melts completely, add heavy cream. Your chili will start looking creamy and thick instantly. - Simmer to thicken
Let the chili simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally. This step thickens the chili naturally. - Adjust the texture
If it looks too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, simmer 5 more minutes. Customize it the way you like. - Taste and adjust seasoning
Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. (optional) Add a squeeze of lime for brightness. - Serve with toppings
Top with cilantro, shredded cheese, jalapeños, or sour cream. Serve warm — perfect for winter nights.
- Use rotisserie chicken for fast meal prep and rich flavor.
- Soften cream cheese beforehand so it melts smoothly without lumps.
- Add mozzarella only if you prefer a thicker, stew-like chili.
- For extra spice, add green chili paste or diced jalapeños.
- This chili thickens as it cools — add extra broth to adjust consistency.
📋 Nutrition Info (approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Fat: ~25 g
- Protein: ~20 g
- Net Carbs: ~4 g
*Nutrition may vary based on cheese, broth, and cream brands.*
🔥 Why This Works for Keto
This chili is naturally high in fat and protein thanks to the heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken. Removing beans drastically cuts the carbs, while green chilies and spices add great depth without increasing carb count. It’s satisfying, warming, and ideal for staying full on cold winter days.
🔁 Variations & Add-ins
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
- Extra Creamy: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cream cheese blend.
- Chunky Veg: Add chopped zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients except cream/cream cheese and cook 4 hours on low. Add creams at the end.
🧊 Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. This chili tastes even better the next day! For freezing, skip the cheese and add it when reheating. Freeze up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned chicken?
- Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken gives much better texture and flavor.
- Can I make it dairy-free?
- You may substitute coconut cream, but flavor will change slightly.
- Why is my chili too thin?
- Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes or add more cheese to thicken.
- Can I freeze this chili?
- Yes! Freeze without the cheese and add it when reheating for best texture.
- Can I add beans if I'm not strict keto?
- Yes — white beans or butter beans work well. But keep in mind they increase carbs.
This Keto White Chicken Chili has become my favorite winter comfort bowl. It’s creamy, filling, and loaded with flavor without needing beans at all. If you try it, tag me on Instagram @99ketocrave — I love seeing your recreations!
- 📧 Email: 99ketocrave@gmail.com
- 📸 Instagram: @99ketocrave
- 📍 Pinterest: Keto Crave Pins