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This Keto White Chicken Chili is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Packed with tender chicken, bold spices, and nourishing bone broth, this one-pot wonder is the perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s Whole30, paleo, and dairy-free, making it a wholesome meal the entire family will enjoy. Garnish with your favorite toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish right at home.

A bowl of spicy soup with shredded chicken, avocado slices, jalapeños, cilantro, radish, and lime. Next to it is a glass of water with lime slices. Everything is set on a textured pinkish surface.
Photo: Loren Runion
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy, Comforting, and Dairy-Free: Coconut milk adds richness without dairy, making it keto and paleo-friendly.
  • Low-Carb & High-Protein: With only 5 net carbs per serving, this chili keeps you on track while offering a protein-packed, filling meal.
  • Customizable Toppings: Top it with avocado, fresh herbs, or your favorite keto-friendly garnishes.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: It freezes and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking.

If you love comforting, protein-packed dishes like this chili, you’ll also enjoy these Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, which are perfect for meal prep.

What is White Chicken Chili?

White chicken chili is a creamy, savory alternative to traditional red chili, typically made with chicken, green chilies, and a rich broth. It’s seasoned with a blend of warming spices like cumin and chili powder, but without the tomatoes or beans found in regular chili. This keto version keeps it low-carb and dairy-free by using coconut milk for that signature creamy texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Top view of a kitchen counter with ingredients for a white chicken chili recipe: raw chicken thighs on a plate, small bowls of diced jalapeño peppers, celery, onion, oregano, ground coriander, chili powder, sea salt, ground black pepper, cumin, diced green chili, coconut oil, minced garlic, coconut milk, and a glass of bone broth.
  • Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I recommend using chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor, but boneless skinless chicken breasts work too. You can also save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Diced Green Chiles: Adds a mild, smoky heat. If you like it spicier, opt for fire-roasted diced green chilies.
  • Coconut Milk: Use full-fat canned coconut milk for a creamy, luscious texture. You can substitute heavy cream if you’re not sensitive to dairy.
  • Onion, Celery, and Garlic: The classic aromatics that build a flavorful base.
  • Jalapeño: For mild heat, use one jalapeño, or add extra for a spicier kick.
  • Spices: Ground cumin, chili powder, coriander, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper bring depth and warmth.
  • Bone Broth or Chicken Broth: Adds richness and nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor. Bone broth adds incredible richness to the chili while providing nutrients. It’s also the secret to the bold flavor in my Hearty Italian Sausage Soup.

Optional Garnishes

Top your chili with:

  • Avocado slices
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Lime wedges
  • Shredded cheese or sour cream (if not dairy-free)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Stovetop Instructions

A white pot on a textured countertop contains finely chopped green bell peppers and onions being stirred with a wooden spatula.

Step 1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, garlic, and jalapeños. Cook for 5 minutes until fragrant.

A cooking pot containing seasoned pieces of chicken and chopped vegetables on a textured pink surface. The chicken pieces are partially cooked and surrounded by what appears to be onions and green peppers.

Step 2. Add Chicken and Spices: Push the veggies to the side, then add the chicken. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, coriander, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is browned.

A hand pours broth from a glass jar into a pot containing seasoned meat, chopped green peppers, and spices. The pot is on a marbled countertop.

Step 3. Simmer the Chili: Add the broth and diced green chiles. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.

A plate of shredded cooked chicken on a marbled surface. A fork rests on the plate beside the chicken. The chicken appears seasoned and is spread out evenly across the white plate.

Step 4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.

A white pot containing a reddish broth with pieces of chicken. A hand is pouring liquid from a glass measuring cup into the pot. The surface is a textured, light brown countertop.

Step 5. Add Coconut Milk: Stir in the coconut milk and bring the mixture back to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes to thicken.

A pot of reddish-brown chili with shredded meat is shown from above. A golden ladle is partially immersed in the soup. Nearby are lime slices, cilantro leaves, a glass of water with a lemon slice, and a white plate with a golden spoon.

Step 6. Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Crockpot Instructions

  1. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place all ingredients except the coconut milk into the crockpot.
  2. Cook Low & Slow: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Shred Chicken & Add Coconut Milk: Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and stir in the coconut milk.
  4. Simmer: Allow the mixture to heat through for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Instant Pot Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Use the sauté function to cook onion, celery, garlic, and jalapeños for 5 minutes.
  2. Add Chicken & Spices: Push the veggies aside, add the chicken, and sprinkle with spices. Brown for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Liquid: Pour in the broth and diced green chiles. Close the lid and seal the vent.
  4. Pressure Cook: Cook on high for 12 minutes, then release the pressure manually.
  5. Shred Chicken & Add Coconut Milk: Shred the chicken and stir in the coconut milk. Simmer on sauté mode for 5 minutes to thicken.
Two bowls of keto white chicken chili garnished with sliced avocado, jalapeños, radishes, cilantro, and lime. The soup has a rich, orange-tinted broth with shredded chicken, set on a marble countertop.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chili

  • Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Avoid using light coconut milk, which won’t give the chili the creamy consistency you’re after.
  • For Thicker Chili: Add a teaspoon of arrowroot powder or xanthan gum to thicken the broth.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep.

For a fun variation, serve this chili alongside Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos for a crowd-pleasing, kid-friendly meal.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore consistency.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Freezing: Let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Two bowls of vibrant white chicken chili soup topped with sliced avocado, jalapeños, radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges. A glass of water with lime is seen nearby.

Recipe FAQs

How many carbs are in keto white chicken chili?

In a serving of this soup, there are 352 calories and just 5 net carbs.

What can I use to thicken keto white chicken chili?

Arrowroot powder, xanthan gum, or tapioca starch are great, keto-friendly options.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great and cuts down on prep time.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the jalapeño. To increase heat, add cayenne pepper or more jalapeños.

More Chili Recipes

If you love this Keto White Chicken Chili, you’ll want to try:

If you make this recipe, please leave me a star rating and comment below! I love to hear your thoughts and feedback. Follow me on social media Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for even more delicious recipes!

A bowl of keto white chicken chili with shredded chicken, avocado slices, jalapeños, cilantro, radish, and lime. Next to it is a glass of water with lime slices. Everything is set on a textured pinkish surface.
4.94 from 15 votes
Servings: 6 servings

Keto White Chicken Chili (Paleo, Whole30)

This Keto White Chicken Chili is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Packed with tender chicken, bold spices, and nourishing bone broth, this one-pot wonder is the perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s Whole30, paleo, and dairy-free, making it a wholesome meal the entire family will enjoy. Garnish with your favorite toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
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Ingredients 

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil, or your favorite cooking oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery sticks, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and membranes removed, diced
  • lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, or breasts
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • tsp ground black pepper
  • 4 cups bone broth, or chicken broth
  • 4 oz can of diced green chili
  • 14 oz can of full fat coconut milk
  • Optional garnish: cilantro, avocado slices, and/or more jalapeño slices

Instructions 

  • Melt coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, garlic, and jalapeños and cook, stirring for 5 minutes.
    1 onion, 2 celery sticks, 4 garlic cloves minced, 2 jalapeño peppers, 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • Push the veggies to the side, then add the chicken with cumin, chili powder, coriander, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
    1½ lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp coriander, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp sea salt, ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
  • Cook the chicken for 5 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides.
  • Add the broth and diced green chili, and let the soup come to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
    4 oz can of diced green chili, 4 cups bone broth
  • Transfer the chicken to a bowl and use 2 forks to shred it completely.
  • Add the chicken back to the soup, then add in coconut milk.
    14 oz can of full fat coconut milk
  • Turn up the heat to medium-high, then let the mixture come back to a boil. Let it boil for 10 minutes until the soup is slightly reduced and thickened. Take off the heat and serve topped with your favorite garnish.
    Optional garnish: cilantro

Notes

  • Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Avoid using light coconut milk, which won’t give the chili the creamy consistency you’re after.
  • For Thicker Chili: Add a teaspoon of arrowroot powder or xanthan gum to thicken the broth.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Freezing: Let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore consistency.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving – makes 6, Calories: 352kcal, Carbohydrates: 8g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 23g, Saturated Fat: 17g, Cholesterol: 108mg, Sodium: 652mg, Potassium: 555mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 380IU, Vitamin C: 16.4mg, Calcium: 50mg, Iron: 3.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below or tag @whatgreatgrandmaate!

 

Jean Choi

I’m a food lover and recipe developer living in Southern California. I love to share simple and approachable gluten-free recipes that are healthy but never sacrifice on flavor.

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68 Comments

  1. Vanessa says:

    I make this almost every week. Any slow cooker tips? I’d love to set it up in the morning and come home to a yummy dinner. Thx!

    1. Jean Choi says:

      Yes, you can slow cook the meat with the veggies, spices, and broth on high for 4-5 hours or 6-7 on low until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork. You can stir in coconut milk just before serving.

  2. Dillon family says:

    We loved this! Swapped green salsa for the chilis, added some leftover cauliflower rice we had, and used leftover chicken from some stock we’d made the day before. Served with dairy free yogurt, cilantro, avocado, an extra dollop of green salsa and a side of some paleo cornbread muffins. Made while my dad was visiting and it was enjoyed by the whole family. Thanks for this recipe!

  3. Sarah G says:

    5 stars
    This dish is absolutely delicious! I’m currently on a candida diet – very close to paleo – and was looking for something I could make with all the leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. I’m so glad I found this recipe! It’s so good! My husband can’t have coconut so I gave him a bowl before I added the coconut milk and he said we have to make this again. This recipe is going in the rotation for sure. I did make a few minor adjustments. I only added 1/2 of one jalapeno as I don’t like anything too spicy and it gave it the perfect amount of heat for me. I wanted more vegetables so I added a red pepper, chard stems, and chard greens. Lastly, I only added 1lb of turkey meat. Can’t wait to make this again!

    1. Jean Choi says:

      I’m so glad it worked out with the adjustments!! I really appreciate you leaving a review. Thanks so much!!

  4. Chelsie says:

    This is maybe the best thing I have ever made. Wow. I did add sweet potato cubes because I can on whole 30. I just cooked them with the rest of the veggies. I also decreased the amount of chicken stock to 2 cups. Just amazing.

    1. Jean Choi says:

      Thank you so much!!

  5. Leah Camp says:

    5 stars
    Just made this soup tonight and it was fantastic! My husband was raving about it and saying it was one of his favorite dishes of mine now!

    1. Jean Choi says:

      Thank you so much!!

  6. Emily Erickson says:

    5 stars
    This soup is AMAZING!!!! I just made it last night. I only had LITE coconut milk on hand, so used that. I also had precooked chicken so I added that at the end so it don’t get tough. I also am not paleo so I threw a can of beans in there. I will DEF be making this A LOT! love coconut, so the little hint of coconut is divine. THANK YOU!

    1. Jean Choi says:

      That sounds wonderful. Thank you so much for leaving a review!

  7. Nicole says:

    I’m going to have to try this soon!

  8. W. Burns says:

    Has anyone tried freezing this chili? I was hoping to prep some while I had time and eat it later.

    1. Jean Choi says:

      I wouldn’t since it’s coconut milk based. Coconut milk tends to separate when it’s frozen then defrosted.