Hello friends, Chef André here.
Some nights call for food that’s warm, creamy, and a little indulgent—but still easy enough to pull together without stress. That’s exactly why this Easy White Chicken Chili Mac has become one of my go-to comfort dinners.
It brings together the cozy flavors of white chicken chili with the satisfying bite of pasta, all in one creamy, hearty dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough to serve guests, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.
If you love comfort food with a twist, this one’s going to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why This White Chicken Chili Mac Works So Well
This recipe hits all the right notes:
- Creamy and comforting without being heavy
- One-pot friendly and weeknight-ready
- Family-approved and crowd-pleasing
- Perfect balance of protein, pasta, and veggies
- Even better as leftovers
It’s comfort food that doesn’t overcomplicate things.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened milk or light cream
- 2 cups small pasta (elbow, shells, or macaroni)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar or Monterey Jack
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Step 2
Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3
Stir in shredded chicken, white beans, chicken broth, and milk.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4
Add pasta and cook uncovered, stirring often, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens (about 10–12 minutes).
Step 5
Lower heat and stir in shredded cheese and spinach until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Chef André’s Tips for the Best Chili Mac
- Stir often once the pasta is added to prevent sticking
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother texture
- Don’t rush the simmer—creaminess builds slowly
- If it gets too thick, add a splash of broth
Simple moves, better results.
Easy Variations to Try
- Add green chilies for extra chili flavor
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time
- Swap pasta for gluten-free if needed
- Add corn or bell peppers for sweetness
This recipe is very forgiving.
What to Serve With White Chicken Chili Mac
This dish is filling on its own, but pairs nicely with:
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating
It thickens as it sits—and that’s a good thing.
FAQ – Easy White Chicken Chili Mac
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well with a little added liquid.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s mild. Heat can be added easily if desired.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely—this recipe is perfect for leftovers.
Can I freeze it?
It’s best fresh, but freezing works if needed.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
Values vary by cheese and pasta used.
Final Words from Chef André
This Easy White Chicken Chili Mac is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel comforting instead of rushed. Creamy, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it’s proof that simple food can still feel special.
If you try it, leave a comment and tell me how it turned out for you.
For safe handling of poultry and leftovers, I recommend checking USDA Food Safety:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
See you in the kitchen,
Chef André 👨🍳