One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with dinner all over again: One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is a weeknight wonder that brings together everything you crave in a single, creamy, flavor-packed pot. This irresistible fusion marries the bold, cozy flavors of white chicken chili with the nostalgic, melty magic of mac and cheese, resulting in a dish that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, this is the kind of recipe that instantly feels like home.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something truly special. Each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering flavor, creaminess, and just the right amount of chili-inspired warmth.

• Olive oil: Adds richness right from the first sizzle and helps the onions and garlic bloom with flavor.
• Yellow onion: Gives the dish a sweet, savory base that complements the spices beautifully.
• Garlic cloves: A few cloves of fresh garlic instantly boost the chili aroma and depth.
• Cooked chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken): Shredded chicken adds hearty protein and absorbs all those wonderful flavors; rotisserie chicken is a time-saving hero!
• Diced green chiles: These bring mild spice and tang—use hot chiles if you love an extra kick.
• Ground cumin: Earthy and warming, cumin builds that unmistakable chili foundation.
• Chili powder: Adds subtle heat and rounds out the chili taste with a gentle bite.
• Dried oregano: Brings an herby freshness that ties all the flavors together.
• Salt: Enhances every single note—don’t skip it!
• Black pepper: For a gentle warmth and balance.
• Chicken broth: Makes the creamy, savory base and keeps things moist as the pasta cooks.
• Whole milk: Delivers that classic, luscious mac and cheese texture.
• Elbow macaroni (or small pasta shells): The perfect shape for catching creamy sauce in every bite.
• White beans: Creamy, mild, and totally comforting; they also boost the fiber and heartiness.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Melts like a dream for ultimate creaminess.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a zippy cheesy contrast with a punch.
• Sour cream: The secret to a cool, tangy finish that brings the whole dish together.
• Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): For a burst of color, fresh flavor, and extra spice on top.

How to Make One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating up the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add your diced onion and give it 3-4 minutes to soften and become fragrant—this is the time to let the flavor base develop real depth. When the onion looks translucent and smells amazing, toss in the minced garlic. Stir for just 30 seconds, until the air in your kitchen smells irresistibly homey.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Now, stir in your cooked shredded chicken, diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices coat the chicken, creating bold flavor with every bite. This step is where the magic of One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese really starts to happen—the aroma alone will draw everyone into the kitchen!

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, then stir in your pasta. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Don’t wander off—give everything a good stir so nothing sticks. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot. Allow it all to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is perfectly tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed into a savory, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add White Beans and Cheese

Time for creaminess overload! Fold in the drained and rinsed white beans for extra heartiness, then sprinkle in the shredded Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses. Keep stirring until both cheeses melt completely, transforming your pot into silky, cheesy goodness. This stage is pure mac and cheese joy, elevated with every scoop.

Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream

Take the pot off the heat and stir in the sour cream—it cools the dish ever so slightly and creates a velvety finish reminiscent of classic white chicken chili. Give it a taste and adjust any seasonings to your liking. Now you’re ready to serve up the coziest, most satisfying One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Don’t skip the fun part: a sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness, while sliced jalapeños offer extra zing for spice lovers. A dollop of sour cream or even some crumbled tortilla chips on top can turn every bowl into a party of flavors and textures!

Side Dishes

While this dish is totally satisfying on its own, you can round out your meal with sides like a crisp green salad, warm skillet cornbread, or even some roasted veggies. Each brings a new layer of contrast and color, making your dinner feel even more special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling the One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese into oven-safe bowls, add a sprinkle of extra cheese, and give them a quick broil for a golden, bubbly finish. Or, serve family-style straight from the pot at the table for a casual, comforting vibe. Leftovers also make a hearty filling for stuffed bell peppers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your chili mac cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits—future you will thank you for the tasty leftover lunches!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese! Cool it completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To revive the creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Stir frequently to keep everything smooth and melty, and taste to adjust seasonings if needed.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked or rotisserie chicken?

If you’d like to use raw chicken, simply dice it and cook it with the onions at the beginning until it’s fully cooked through before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken just makes things speedier!

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily turn up the heat by using hot diced green chiles, extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or even more jalapeños on top. It’s totally customizable to your spice preference.

Can I substitute the beans or leave them out?

Absolutely. White beans add creaminess and body, but you can use pinto beans, black beans, or even skip them for a less hearty dish. The recipe is flexible and adapts well to your tastes or what’s in the pantry.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Elbow macaroni and small shells are classic choices because they hold the cheesy sauce well, but feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time if needed for different shapes.

Can I make One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your broth and chiles are gluten-free. The result is every bit as creamy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to cozy up with a bowl of One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese—it’s truly a dinnertime game changer that brings comfort, flavor, and just the right hint of adventure to your table. Whip it up soon, and get ready for rave reviews from everyone lucky enough to snag a spoonful!

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