White Chicken Chili Tacos: The Creamy & Easy Recipe You’ll Crave

Get ready to transform your taco night with these incredible White Chicken Chili Tacos. This recipe combines the hearty, comforting flavors of creamy white chicken chili with the fun and versatility of tacos for a truly unforgettable meal. It’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner that your family will ask for again and again. Forget boring ground beef; this is the flavorful, satisfying twist you’ve been searching for.

We’re ditching the traditional red sauce for a rich and savory cream cheese and broth-based chili, loaded with tender shredded chicken, hearty white beans, and mild green chiles. The result is a uniquely delicious filling that’s perfect for piling into warm tortillas. Let’s dive into making your new favorite tacos!

A Dutch oven filled with simmering white chicken chili, with shredded chicken and beans visible in the creamy sauce. A wooden spoon rests in the pot, ready to serve.
This entire delicious chili comes together in just one pot!

Why This White Chicken Chili Taco Recipe is a Weeknight Winner


This isn’t just another taco recipe; it’s a game-changer for busy evenings. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:

  • Quick & Easy: The chili comes together in one pot in under 45 minutes, making it a perfect solution for hectic weeknights.
  • Incredibly Flavorful: A savory blend of cumin, oregano, and garlic, combined with the richness of cream cheese, creates a chili that’s bursting with flavor without being overly spicy.
  • Customizable: Tacos are all about the toppings! Set up a taco bar with all your favorites like avocado, cilantro, and jalapeños so everyone can build their perfect bite.
  • Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, this meal is guaranteed to fill you up and keep you satisfied.

The Essential Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili Tacos

The magic of this dish comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a major flavor punch. Here’s what you’ll need to gather.

A serving of creamy white chicken chili tacos on a plate, with a side of lime wedges. The tacos are artfully arranged to show the tender shredded chicken and rich chili.
The perfect combination of creamy, savory chili and warm tortillas.

For the White Chicken Chili

  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics.
  • Yellow Onion & Garlic: The essential flavor base for any great chili.
  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star protein. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
  • Chicken Broth: Forms the liquid base of the chili.
  • Great Northern Beans: Two cans, rinsed and drained. Cannellini beans also work well.
  • Diced Green Chiles: One small can adds a mild, tangy heat.
  • Spices: A simple but powerful combination of ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cream Cheese: The secret to an ultra-creamy, rich chili. Make sure it’s softened for easy melting.
  • Lime Juice: A splash of fresh lime juice at the end brightens up all the flavors.

For Assembly

  • Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas, warmed for serving.
  • Toppings: Shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make White Chicken Chili Tacos

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious tacos you’ve ever had. We’ll make the chili first, then get everything ready for assembly.

1. Sauté Aromatics and Sear Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Place the chicken breasts in the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the rinsed beans, diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

3. Shred the Chicken & Get Creamy

Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, then return it to the pot. Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and add them to the chili. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is smooth and creamy. Stir in the fresh lime juice.

4. Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your tortillas according to package directions. Spoon a generous amount of the white chicken chili into each tortilla. Top with your favorite fixings like shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Tacos

Want to take your White Chicken Chili Tacos to the next level? Here are a few expert tips:

  • Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the chili simmer allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious result.
  • Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it melt smoothly into the chili without any lumps.
  • Toast Your Tortillas: Briefly heat your corn or flour tortillas in a dry skillet or over a gas flame for a few seconds per side. This enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable. If you need another amazing chicken dish, you should try this Cowboy Butter Chicken recipe.

Topping and Variation Ideas

One of the best parts about tacos is the endless possibility for toppings and variations. Try some of these fun ideas:

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili or top your tacos with fresh or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
  • Add Some Crunch: Crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions make a great crunchy topping.
  • Veggie Power: Stir in a cup of frozen corn during the last 10 minutes of simmering for extra sweetness and texture. Looking for more veggie ideas? This roasted Moroccan cauliflower is a fantastic side.
  • Make it a Bowl: Serve the white chicken chili over a bed of cilantro-lime rice for a delicious taco bowl variation.

What to Serve With Your Tacos

While these tacos are a complete meal on their own, a few simple sides can round everything out beautifully. A simple side salad, Mexican street corn, or a side of black beans and rice are all excellent choices. For a different but equally delicious comfort food, check out our Crack Chicken Gnocchi.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chili’s flavor actually deepens overnight! Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Store tortillas and toppings separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! To adapt this for a slow cooker, sear the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic on the stove first. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in the cream cheese and lime juice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.


The easiest method is using two forks to pull the cooked chicken breast apart. For a faster method, you can place the warm, cooked chicken in the bowl of a stand mixer and use the paddle attachment on low speed for about 15-20 seconds.


This recipe is mild and savory rather than spicy. The diced green chiles add a tangy flavor with very little heat. To increase the spice level, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño with the onions, or serve with hot sauce.


Yes, you can easily substitute other beans. Cannellini beans are a great alternative as they are also creamy. Pinto beans or even black beans would also work, though they will change the final color and flavor profile slightly.


You can store the leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and it often tastes even better the next day.


More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love exploring more of our easy and flavorful dishes. From weeknight dinners to show-stopping desserts, we have something for every occasion.

A close-up overhead shot of three White Chicken Chili Tacos on a wooden board, topped with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños. The tacos are filled with a creamy white chili and shredded chicken.
Taco night just got a major upgrade with these creamy White Chicken Chili Tacos!

We hope you love this White Chicken Chili Tacos recipe as much as we do! It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. If you try it, be sure to leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on Pinterest!

White Chicken Chili Tacos Recipe

A serving of creamy white chicken chili tacos on a plate, with a side of lime wedges. The tacos are artfully arranged to show the tender shredded chicken and rich chili.
FL Recipes

White Chicken Chili Tacos: The Creamy & Easy Recipe You’ll Crave

This White Chicken Chili Tacos recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner! Creamy, savory white chicken chili loaded into warm tortillas with all your favorite toppings. A quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal the whole family will love.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 tacos
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium
  • 2 15-ounce cans Great Northern Beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 4-ounce can Diced Green Chiles
  • 2 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese softened and cubed
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
  • 8 Corn or Flour Tortillas warmed
  • Optional Toppings shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, sour cream

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 2 Forks (for shredding)

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Place the chicken breasts in the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add the rinsed beans, diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
  3. Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until it has completely melted and the chili is creamy. Stir in the fresh lime juice.
  4. Warm the tortillas. Spoon a generous amount of the white chicken chili into each tortilla. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalProtein: 34gFat: 15gFiber: 8g

Notes

Toast Your Tortillas: For the best flavor and texture, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side.
Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Keyword chicken tacos,easy weeknight dinner,white chicken chili

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