Why Make This Recipe
Cajun White Chicken Chili is a delicious twist on traditional chili. It combines the heartiness of chicken and sausage with the rich flavors of Cajun spices. This chili is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The blend of ingredients creates a dish that is both warm and satisfying, offering something special for everyone.
How to Make Cajun White Chicken Chili
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 1 lb smoked beef 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)
- 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
Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns golden.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Once the mixture thickens, add the half-and-half and stir well.
- Next, add the cooked chicken, sliced sausage, red beans, white corn, and green chilies. Stir to combine.
- Add the minced onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and Cajun seasoning. Mix everything together.
- Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once ready, stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy.
How to Serve Cajun White Chicken Chili
Serve the Cajun White Chicken Chili hot. You can top it with additional shredded cheese, diced green onions, or sour cream for extra flavor. This chili pairs well with cornbread or crusty bread on the side.
How to Store Cajun White Chicken Chili
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place the chili in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Cajun White Chicken Chili
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and sausage with your favorite beans and vegetables.
Variation
You can add diced bell peppers or celery to enhance the flavor and texture of the chili. Additionally, using different types of cheese can give you a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I serve with Cajun White Chicken Chili?
You can serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal.
Can I use different kinds of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken and sausage with turkey, or even keep it vegetarian by using more beans and vegetables.
Cajun White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter For sautéing
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour To thicken the chili
- 3 cups chicken broth For the base of the chili
- 1 cup half-and-half For creaminess
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken Can use rotisserie chicken to save time
- 1 lb smoked beef 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
Spices
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1½ Tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust for spice level
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese For creaminess and flavor
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns golden.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Once the mixture thickens, add the half-and-half and stir well.
- Next, add the cooked chicken, sliced sausage, red beans, white corn, and green chilies. Stir to combine.
- Add the minced onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and Cajun seasoning. Mix everything together.
- Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once ready, stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy.