To make Creamy White Chicken Chili, sauté chicken, onions, and garlic. Add broth, salsa verde, spices, and white beans (blend some for creaminess). Finish with sour cream. Serve and enjoy!
Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili Recipe (Step by Step)
Craving the Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili Recipe at home? This creamy, flavor-packed, and easy-to-make version brings the restaurant favorite straight to your kitchen. For the most accurate inspiration, reference the official Cheesecake Factory white chicken chili recipe details.
1.Ingredients Overview
Ingredient | Purpose / Flavor | Alternatives / Notes |
---|---|---|
Chicken breast or thighs | Main protein, tender & hearty | Use rotisserie chicken for convenience |
White beans | Adds creaminess & bulk | Blend half for a velvety base |
Chicken broth | Flavorful liquid base | Low-sodium broth for lighter version |
Onions & garlic | Aromatic base for depth | Shallots or leeks as substitutes |
Salsa verde | Signature tang & mild heat | Green enchilada sauce can work |
Cumin, oregano, chili powder | Warm Southwestern spices | Adjust spice level to taste |
Sour cream or half-and-half | Creamy texture | Swap with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese |
Corn, zucchini, bell peppers (optional) | Extra flavor, texture & nutrition | Mix and match based on preference |
Want a lighter or more vegetable-packed spin? Explore this nutritious, one-pan take on the Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili that uses tweaks like smaller prep time and creative veggie add-ins.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step | Action | Details / Tips |
---|---|---|
1 | Brown the Chicken | Season well and sear in a large pot for maximum flavor. |
2 | Sauté Aromatics | Remove chicken, then cook onions, garlic, and peppers until fragrant. |
3 | Add Flour | Sprinkle a small amount to thicken the base. |
4 | Mix in Liquids & Spices | Add chicken broth, salsa verde, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Stir well. |
5 | Simmer with Chicken | Return the chicken and let it cook gently until tender. |
6 | Add White Beans | Mash or blend part of the beans to create a creamy texture. |
7 | Stir in Creaminess | Use sour cream, half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese for a lighter version. |
8 | Adjust Consistency | Add extra broth if needed for desired thickness. |
9 | Garnish | Top with cilantro, shredded cheese, or avocado slices. |
10 | Serve | Pair with rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread for a full meal. |

3. Why This Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili Recipe Works
What makes the Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili recipe so appealing is the balance of flavor and texture. Green chiles, salsa verde, cumin, and chili powder give it a warm Southwestern kick, while white beans add heartiness. For a streamlined “SkinnyLicious” version that lightens up the dish without sacrificing depth, check out this health-conscious adaptation of the Cheesecake Factory’s own lighter chili.
Blending a portion of the beans creates a naturally creamy base without relying on heavy cream. The result is a one-pot chili that’s comforting, customizable, and satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meal prep.

4. Tips for Best Results
For the creamiest Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili recipe, blend half the beans before adding them to the pot—this creates a smooth, velvety base. Let the chili rest for at least 10 minutes before serving; the flavors deepen as it sits. For a beautifully executed step-by-step demonstration, browse this detailed copycat version of the Cheesecake Factory’s chicken chili, which mirrors the method and shows you every silky stage.
Adjust spice with jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce if you like more heat. Prefer a lighter bowl? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For meal prep, this copycat chili tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully.

5. Variations & Healthy Swap
One of the best parts about the Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili recipe is how adaptable it is. For a lighter SkinnyLicious version, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to cut calories without losing creaminess.
Add corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a hands-off method, this chili works beautifully in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Want a freezer-friendly batch? Double the recipe and store portions for easy weeknight meals.
6. Serving & Storage
Serve this Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili recipe with tortilla chips, rice, or cornbread, topped with avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess

7. FAQ
Can I make this Cheesecake Factory White Chicken Chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, just add everything to the crockpot after sautéing onions and garlic. Cook on low for 6–7 hours.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut that works perfectly.
Is this chili freezer-friendly?
Yes, store portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨