Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Stovetop & Oven · Storage: Airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
This Super Creamy White Chicken Chili with Seasoned Tots combines rich flavors and textures, perfect for winter gatherings.
As I prepare my cozy Manhattan apartment for the winter festivities ahead, I’m reminded of the need for heartwarming, creamy dishes that can feed friends and family gathered around the table. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, this Super Creamy White Chicken Chili with Seasoned Tots is not just comforting but also elevates any holiday gathering with its rich flavors and delightful textures. Trust me when I say, this recipe is one you’ll want to have in your culinary arsenal. Let’s dive in!
A Delicious Holiday Comfort Food
This recipe serves as the ideal centerpiece for any holiday meal, showcasing both convenience and incredible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that’s perfect for chilly nights.
- Easy to prepare, making it ideal for holiday gatherings.
- Delicious blend of flavors and textures with seasoned tots.
- Leftovers are great for quick meals during the week.
- Uses rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
This recipe features two components: the chili and the seasoned tots.
For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chiles
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Seasoned Tots:
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
How to Make Super Creamy White Chicken Chili with Seasoned Tots (Step-by-Step)
Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal with this easy step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients
Next, toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken along with the drained white beans, green chiles, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together to let the flavors mingle deliciously.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about 10 minutes. Enjoy watching the steam rise as the flavors develop.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Lower the heat and whisk in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste; you’ll love the delightful aroma of the cream and spices mingling.
Step 5: Prepare the Seasoned Tots
While the chili simmers, preheat your oven according to the package instructions for the tater tots. In a bowl, toss the frozen tots with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crispy, which should take about 25-30 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skip the Fresh Ingredients: Don’t substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Fresh cilantro provides a brightness that dried can’t replicate.
- Overcook Your Chicken: If you’re cooking your own chicken, be careful not to overcook it; it should remain tender and moist.
- Forget the Cream Cheese: Skipping the cream cheese really changes the texture. It’s what makes this chili so wonderfully creamy!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chili.
- Leftovers keep great in the fridge for up to three days and can easily be frozen for quick meals later on. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added texture.
Variations
- Swap the rotisserie chicken for diced turkey for a post-Thanksgiving twist.
- Use different types of beans, like kidney or black beans, for a unique taste.
- Substitute cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or corn for added nutrition.
How to Serve
- Spoon the warm chili into bowls and garnish generously with fresh cilantro.
- Serve with crispy seasoned tater tots on the side.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the chili.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth for creaminess.
- Freezing: Freeze the chili for up to three months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This recipe taught me the beauty of blending both convenience and flavor. Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with tremendous depth. Plus, the crispy seasoned tots are a fun and satisfying contrast to the creamy chili—who doesn’t love a little crunch on the side? Enjoy this dish at your holiday gatherings; it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 35g carbs · 25g fat
Super Creamy White Chicken Chili with Tots
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, drained white beans, green chiles, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about 10 minutes.
- Lower the heat and whisk in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven according to the package instructions for the tater tots. Toss the frozen tots with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just be cautious not to overcook it; it should remain tender and moist. Cook the chicken separately and shred it before adding it to the chili.
How can I store leftovers properly?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the chili for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
What if I want to make the chili spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chili during the cooking process.
