If you are craving a hearty, comforting bowl that bursts with bold flavors and creamy texture, this Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant twist on traditional chili, combining tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a zesty mix of spices that create a perfect balance of heat and richness. Each spoonful delivers warmth and is incredibly satisfying, making it an absolute favorite for weeknights or casual gatherings. The magic lies in the blend of simple, fresh ingredients that come together with ease to create something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is delightfully straightforward, featuring essential ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. Each element, from the creamy half-and-half to the spicy Cajun seasoning, plays a crucial role in making this chili comforting yet exciting on the palate.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Helps create a rich roux base for thickening the chili.
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to give the chili its creamy consistency.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and savory notes while keeping the chili light.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Brings creaminess and a smooth finish to the broth.
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken: Provides tender protein and heartiness.
- 1 lb smoked or andouille sausage, sliced and browned: Introduces smoky, spicy complexity.
- 2 (15-oz) cans red beans, rinsed and drained: Adds fiber, texture, and a subtle earthiness.
- 1 (11-oz) can white corn, drained: Sweet bursts of corn brighten up the dish.
- 2 (4-oz) cans chopped green chilies, undrained: Contribute mild heat and tang.
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Infuse a mellow, savory aroma.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of warmth.
- 2 tsp cumin: Adds an earthy, aromatic essence that’s essential in chili.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Offers smoky, spicy undertones.
- 1½ Tbsp Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend, giving it that signature kick and southern flair.
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese: Melts into the chili, adding spice and creaminess.
How to Make Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Create the Roux Base
Start by melting the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux, which helps thicken the chili later. This step is key because it ensures your chili won’t be watery but instead lusciously creamy.
Step 2: Add the Liquids
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a boil, then let it cook for 2 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. This rich, creamy base will balance the vibrant spices and hearty ingredients ahead.
Step 3: Incorporate the Proteins and Veggies
Next, stir in the cooked chopped chicken and browned sausage slices. Adding these early allows their flavors to meld beautifully with the base. Then fold in the red beans, white corn, and green chilies along with the dried minced onion flakes and garlic powder. These provide texture and bursts of sweetness that complement the smoky meat.
Step 4: Season It Up
Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and Cajun seasoning to infuse that unmistakable Cajun zest. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure even seasoning. This spice combination is what makes the Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe come alive, delivering layers of heat and earthiness.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish with Cheese
Let the chili simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken to the perfect consistency. Finally, stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese, letting it melt into the chili for a final creamy touch with a slight spicy kick.
How to Serve Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, garnish your chili with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced green onions. Each garnish adds a fresh burst of flavor and a pleasing contrast in texture, making every bite more exciting.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every last bit. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is excellent to balance the richness and add freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe in individual bread bowls or topped with crunchy tortilla strips and avocado slices. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese and broil it briefly for a bubbly, golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even better.
Freezing
This chili freezes wonderfully. Just cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months and thaw quickly in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to prevent curdling. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked or andouille sausage are traditional, you can substitute with chorizo, kielbasa, or even a mild breakfast sausage depending on your flavor preference.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The Cajun seasoning brings a moderate spice level, but you can always adjust it by using less seasoning or swapping pepper jack cheese for a milder cheese like cheddar if you prefer a gentler heat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans, corn, and perhaps diced bell peppers for extra substance and flavor.
What can I substitute for half-and-half?
If you don’t have half-and-half, mixing equal parts milk and cream works well. For a lighter option, whole milk can be used, though it may be slightly less creamy.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
You can! Just brown the sausage and prepare the roux on the stovetop first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe is a delightful, soul-warming dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, it’s sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of Cajun-inspired goodness with every spoonful!
Print
Cajun White Chicken Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This hearty Cajun White Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and flavorful beans in a creamy, spicy broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s rich with Cajun spices and topped with melted pepper jack cheese for a satisfying finish.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 1 lb smoked or andouille sausage, sliced and browned
- 2 (15-oz) cans red beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (11-oz) can white corn, drained
- 2 (4-oz) cans chopped green chilies, undrained
Seasonings & Cheese
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1½ Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Make the roux: In a Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux that will thicken the chili base.
- Add liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cook for 2 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the cooked chopped chicken, browned smoked or andouille sausage, rinsed red beans, white corn, chopped green chilies (with their juice), dried minced onion flakes, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and Cajun seasoning.
- Simmer the chili: Cook the chili mixture over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the ingredients to heat through thoroughly.
- Add cheese and serve: Stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until melted and well incorporated. Serve hot for a warm, spicy, and creamy white chicken chili experience.
Notes
- Use smoked or andouille sausage for authentic Cajun flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level.
- For a thicker chili, cook a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and flavor improves after a day.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
