Hey friend, it’s Jessica here from nourishwellrecipes.com, and if your evenings are anything like mine—filled with hungry kids, a busy schedule, and that craving for something cozy—you’re in for a treat. This Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe is everything you love about comfort food without the carb overload.
Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out while keeping your healthy goals on track. Whether you’re deep into your keto journey or just cutting back on carbs, this chili fits the bill perfectly.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe
- It’s comfort food made healthy—rich, creamy, and flavorful without the guilt.
- Ready in under an hour (and even faster if you use leftover chicken).
- Family-approved—my three little food critics always ask for seconds.
- Great for meal prep—it reheats beautifully.
This recipe became a weeknight favorite in my house during one of those chilly Texas evenings when all I wanted was something that felt like a warm hug in a bowl.
What Does Keto White Chicken Chili Taste Like?
Imagine the cozy flavor of traditional chili—spices, savory chicken, a touch of heat—but instead of a tomato base, you get a luxuriously creamy broth that’s smooth, rich, and just a little bit indulgent. The blend of cumin, garlic, and green chilies creates a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can green chilies (4 oz)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitution Ideas:
- Swap chicken for ground turkey or pork.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free twist.
- Add diced zucchini or cauliflower for a veggie boost.
- Love spice? A pinch of cayenne will do wonders.
How to Make Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)
When it comes to comfort food with a healthy twist, this Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe is pure magic. It’s rich, creamy, and surprisingly simple to make — even if your weeknights are as chaotic as mine usually are. Grab your Dutch oven, tie up that apron, and let’s cook this step-by-step together.
Step 1: Season and Prep Your Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels — this helps it sear beautifully. Season both sides with salt, pepper, a pinch of cumin, and a little chili powder. Trust me, this quick step builds a flavor foundation that makes your chili irresistible.
If you’re short on time, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken (just skip the searing step). But if you can, cook it fresh — the caramelization adds a depth you can’t get otherwise.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Heat about one tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken. Sear each side for about 5–7 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
The goal here isn’t just to cook the meat — it’s to create those flavorful brown bits (fond) at the bottom of the pan. They’ll later blend into your broth and make your Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe taste like it’s been simmering all day.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot (don’t clean it — that’s flavor gold in there!), add your chopped onions. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
The kitchen will start to smell amazing right about now — warm, savory, and cozy. This is where you know you’re on the right track.
Step 4: Add Your Spices and Green Chilies
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir them around for a minute or two — just long enough to “wake up” the spices.
Next, add the can of green chilies (don’t drain them!) and stir them into the onion mixture. They add that mild heat and tang that balances out the creamy base later.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. It might look a bit separated at first, but keep stirring — the cream cheese will melt down into a silky smooth broth.
This creamy base is what makes your Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe so comforting without needing any flour or starch.
Step 6: Shred and Return the Chicken
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return it to the pot and stir well to coat it in that rich, creamy broth.
This is the part where your chili starts to look like the real deal — full, hearty, and irresistible.
Step 7: Add the Cheese and Let It Simmer
Now for the magic touch — slowly stir in the shredded Monterey Jack (or Cheddar) cheese. Keep the heat low so it melts evenly without curdling.
Simmer your chili uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors blend and deepen.
If you love creamy soups like this, you might also want to try my Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Rice Soup — it’s another family favorite that’s light, cozy, and just as easy to make.
Step 8: Adjust and Perfect
Give your chili a taste test. Add more salt, pepper, or a little extra chili powder if you like it spicy. For extra creaminess, stir in an extra tablespoon of cream cheese just before serving.
If your chili is too thick, splash in a bit more broth or water. Too thin? Let it simmer for a few more minutes uncovered — it’ll thicken beautifully.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili into bowls and garnish with:
- Shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- A dollop of sour cream
- Or even diced avocado for healthy fats
Serve it warm with a side of cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad for a complete keto-friendly dinner.
This chili isn’t just a recipe — it’s that cozy, nourishing bowl that makes everyone at the table smile.
Pro Tip:
Make a big batch! This Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe reheats wonderfully. Store it in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. It’s one of those dishes that somehow tastes even better the next day.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Keto White Chicken Chili
- Soften your cream cheese first. It blends smoothly and avoids lumps.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken. It adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer uncovered to thicken.
- Add toppings! Try avocado slices, shredded cheese, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, then stir in cream and cheese at the end.
What can I serve with this chili?
Try it with a side of cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a huge time-saver. Just shred it and skip the initial cooking step.
Conclusion
There you have it—a Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe that proves comfort food and healthy eating can live happily in the same bowl. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a midweek lifesaver, this chili brings warmth, satisfaction, and just the right amount of spice.
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Rice Soup or the zesty Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup.
So go ahead—ladle up a bowl, take a deep breath, and savor every creamy, keto-friendly bite.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich, creamy Low Carb Keto White Chicken Chili Recipe packed with flavor, perfect for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. It’s hearty, comforting, and easy to customize.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can green chilies (4 oz)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and optional cumin and chili powder.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom spices.
7. Add green chilies and cook for another minute.
8. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
9. Add heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Stir until cream cheese melts and broth is smooth.
10. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and return to the pot.
11. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
12. Reduce heat and let chili simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
14. Serve hot with your favorite low-carb toppings.
Notes
For a spicier chili, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
To make it dairy-free, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free cheese.
This recipe can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for added convenience.
Garnish with sliced avocado, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
