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One-Pot Creamy White Chicken Chili Mac - White chicken chili mac and cheese: make this hearty, creamy one-pot meal for a satisfying dinner. Quick, flavorful, an

One-Pot Creamy White Chicken Chili Mac

White chicken chili mac and cheese: make this hearty, creamy one-pot meal for a satisfying dinner. Quick, flavorful, and a new family favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter or olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup salsa verde
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, add the butter or olive oil. Once melted, add the chopped yellow onion and chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and the onion is softened.
  • Stir in the chopped garlic, poblano peppers, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth. Partially cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  • Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside. To the pot, add the elbow macaroni and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring often to prevent sticking.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, rinsed and drained cannellini beans, salsa verde, diced green chiles, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Cook for another few minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F. Remove the pot from the heat and top the chili mac with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Divide the creamy white chicken chili mac among bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

- For extra depth, char the poblano peppers slightly before chopping. This adds a smoky layer to the chili mac.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F (74°C) before shredding for food safety.
- Don't overcook the pasta! It will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so aim for al dente.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
Keyword white chicken chili