Creamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe

Imagine curling up on the sofa while a blizzard of comfort food flavor melts away the stress of a long day. This isn’t just soup; it’s a profound, satisfying hug in a bowl, perfect for tackling those chilly evenings when only something truly soulful will do.

You are about to master theCreamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe, a dish so effortless and satisfying, it will instantly become your new kitchen MVP and the solution to all your weeknight dinner dilemmas.

• Ready in under 40 minutes using common pantry staples, this straightforward method makes quick weeknight meal preparation an absolute breeze.
• Experience a perfectly balanced flavor profile featuring mild spices, tender shredded chicken, and a decadent, rich, yet surprisingly light creaminess.
• This visually appealing comfort dish boasts bright, rustic colors that look absolutely stunning when garnished with fresh cilantro and vibrant shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
• The recipe is highly versatile, easily adaptable for slow cooker or instant pot preparation, offering maximum deep flavor with minimal hands-on effort.

Why This Creamy White Chicken Chili is Your Weeknight Hero

I distinctly remember the first time I attempted to make white chicken chili. It was a disaster involving overly watery broth, slightly crunchy beans, and a level of spice that convinced my cat she needed to hide under the furniture for three days. It was supposed to be easy comfort food, but I achieved only chaos.

After that fiery tragedy, I dedicated myself to perfecting this particular dish. The mission was simple: create a version that was foolproof, deeply flavored, and—most importantly—achieved that magical, velvety texture without tasting heavy or gloppy. ThisCreamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipeis the result of those culinary wars, and it’s a winner.

This recipe speaks to the soul of simple cooking. You can truly dump and stir your way to dinner, leaving you plenty of time to deal with the other joys of adult life, like deciding if the laundry really needs folding tonight (spoiler: it probably doesn’t). What sets this specific chili apart is the balance; we use aromatic vegetables and simple spices like cumin and oregano to build a robust foundation, then introduce the dairy elements strategically. The chicken stays moist, the beans hold their shape, and the broth transforms into a thick, luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to every spoonful. Forget those pale imitations that taste like glorified chicken noodle soup without the noodles—this is the real deal, designed to deliver maximum comfort with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dinner you look forward to all day, especially when the temperature outside insists on being rude.

The Secret to Next-Level Creaminess

The cardinal sin of creamy chili is skipping the texture agents and relying solely on milk, which often separates or thins out dramatically during the cooking process. We need structure, depth, and a little culinary bravado. My secret weapon for achieving that luscious, restaurant-quality thickness is a combination of two powerhouse ingredients: cream cheese and a touch of heavy cream.

First, we introduce the cream cheese towards the end. Why cream cheese? Because it melts down slowly, providing an incredible base stability and a subtle, tangy richness that balances the heat from the green chilies. Make sure you cut it into cubes before adding it to the simmering chili; this allows it to incorporate smoothly without clumping. Stir patiently until every trace of that cheesy goodness has dissolved into the broth.

Secondly, heavy cream (or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a richer flavor) provides the final glossy sheen and depth. Add the cream right after the cream cheese has melted, reducing the heat immediately so the mixture doesn’t boil aggressively. This ensures the dairy remains smooth and prevents any regrettable curdling. If you find your chili still needs a slight boost in body, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering chili until it thickens to your desired consistency. This two-pronged approach guarantees a rich, velvety chili every single time that tastes gourmet, even though it took less effort than arguing with your GPS.

Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken Breast or ThighsUse boneless, skinless cuts cooked and shredded; this provides the primary protein and tender texture for the chili.
• Canned Cannellini BeansThese white beans offer a tender, creamy texture and absorb the broth beautifully; rinse and drain them well before use.
• Chicken BrothOpt for low-sodium broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish, providing the liquid base and savory depth.
• Diced Green ChiliesUse mild canned diced chilies for a subtle warmth and authentic flavor without overwhelming heat.
• Onion and GarlicThese aromatic vegetables form the essential flavor foundation; dice the onion finely and mince the garlic.
• Spices (Cumin, Dried Oregano, Chili Powder)This blend creates the signature warmth and complexity of the chili flavor profile.
• Cream CheeseCrucial for thickening the broth and adding a rich, tangy depth that enhances the overall creaminess of the chili.
• Heavy CreamAdded at the end, it provides the final velvety smooth texture and decadent mouthfeel.
• Olive OilUsed to sauté the aromatics at the beginning of the cooking process, building the initial flavor base.

The full ingredients list, including precise measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this incredibly delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one minute more until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in all the dried spices: cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Cook the spices with the onions and garlic for 30 seconds. This step, known as blooming, intensifies the flavor of the spices significantly. Pour in approximately half a cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful brown bits.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili Broth

Add the remaining chicken broth, the rinsed and drained cannellini beans, and the diced green chilies to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 15 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the broth to absorb the essence of the beans and spices.

Step 4: Shred and Add the Chicken

While the broth is simmering, shred your cooked chicken. If you are starting with raw chicken, you can cook it quickly in the broth during the initial 15-minute simmer, then remove and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the pot once the simmering period is complete.

Step 5: Achieve Maximum Creaminess

Reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting. Cut the block of cream cheese into small cubes and gradually add them to the chili, stirring continuously until the cream cheese is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and luxurious. Once the chili is uniform, slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine everything.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings, adding salt and black pepper as needed. If the chili is too thick, stir in a splash more broth until the desired consistency is achieved. Allow it to heat through for 5 minutes without boiling. Transfer the creamy chili to bowls and prepare to garnish for a show-stopping presentation.

Customizing Your Comfort Bowl

One of the best features of this incredibly satisfying comfort dish is its ability to serve as a blank canvas for spectacular toppings. Think of the chili as a sophisticated background singer and the toppings as the rock stars ready to steal the show. Don’t limit yourself to boring shredded cheese; let your imagination run wild!

Optional Toppings and Flavor Boosters

For an added textural contrast and a refreshing element, I highly recommend topping this white chicken chili with a generous dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt—its tanginess cuts through the richness beautifully. A sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack is essential for melting goodness. For a fresh, herbal lift, cilantro and thinly sliced green onions are indispensable. If you like a little crunch, crumbled tortilla chips or homemade seasoned croutons add a wonderful textural element. Finally, a small splash of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens the whole dish, enhancing the complexity of the spices.

Making it Ahead and Storing

This chili is genuinely a gift that keeps on giving. It tastes even better the next day once the spices have had extra time to mingle and deepen. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider adding the heavy cream only when reheating. Dairy can sometimes thin out when stored and reheated repeatedly. Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes well for up to three months. If freezing, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Chicken Chili

Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?

Absolutely. While cannellini beans are preferred for their creamy texture, great northern beans or even a mix of navy beans and black beans will work wonderfully, though the color might change slightly from the “white” chili aesthetic.

How can I make this chili spicier?

To increase the heat, you have several options. Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper with your initial spices, or add a dash of hot sauce right before serving. For a richer heat, include a small diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions in Step 1.

What is the best way to get perfectly shredded chicken?

The easiest method is using an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Place the hot, cooked chicken breasts in the bowl and run the mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds; the chicken will shred perfectly with minimal effort. Alternatively, you can use two forks to pull the meat apart manually.

Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe adapts perfectly to a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients (except the cream cheese and heavy cream) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream during the final 30 minutes of cooking until smooth before serving.

The quest for the perfect comfort food often ends in disaster. My history with chili involves several exploded slow cookers, a kitchen stained paprika-red, and one highly traumatic incident involving undercooked kidney beans. I nearly gave up on thick, hearty bowls of warmth entirely. Then, I stumbled upon the magic of white chicken chili. Forget the heavy, tomato-based traditional version; this is its sophisticated, milder, and infinitely creamier cousin. This dish doesn’t just hug you from the inside; it wraps you in a cashmere blanket and hands you a tiny, comforting spoon.

I first whipped up this chili on a Tuesday when the temperature dropped forty degrees overnight, and my soul required immediate fortification. The ingredients looked simple—shredded chicken, white beans, and a sneaky blend of spices—but the transformation was extraordinary. It took less time than ordering takeout, and the results were so impressive my neighbor swore I had hired a professional chef. If you need an effortless, soul-soothing meal, thisCreamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipeis your new best friend.

Why This Elegant Chili Recipe Triumphs

Traditional chili can feel like a heavy, all-day affair, demanding hours of simmering. This alternative offers supreme flavor payoff without the commitment. We utilize shredded chicken (leftovers or rotisserie work wonders) and rely on aromatics like cumin and oregano, balanced beautifully by a bright tang of lime and rich dairy. The texture is what truly elevates this dish: it’s smooth and velvety, thick enough to hold its shape but fluid enough to glide over a bowl of tortilla chips. It’s the ideal weeknight fix because you can get it on the table in under 40 minutes, making it a reliable staple for busy evenings.

The Core Components of Ultimate Comfort

The secret to achieving that deep, complex flavor profile isn’t a long simmer time; it’s layering the spices correctly and choosing the right creamy base. Instead of relying solely on heavy cream, we use a combination of light cream cheese and a splash of milk or half-and-half. This blend provides a rich mouthfeel without turning the chili into soup pudding. We also utilize fire-roasted green chilies, which impart a smoky depth that regular canned chilies simply cannot match. If you want a quick, delicious dinner, this easy chicken chili recipe is your winning ticket.

Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Chili

Gathering the ingredients is perhaps the easiest part of this entire process. Most items are likely already lurking in your pantry, waiting for their moment to shine. We focus on high-quality beans and excellent spices to build the base flavor quickly and efficiently. Make sure your chicken is pre-cooked and shredded before you start cooking.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (mild)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best)
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies (fire-roasted if available)
• 1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime (freshly squeezed is essential)

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Bowl

Get ready to transform simple pantry staples into an incredibly satisfying meal. This method is straightforward and designed for minimal fuss.

1. Sauté the Aromatics:Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. This step awakens the spices, significantly boosting the flavor base.
2. Build the Base:Pour in the chicken broth, then add the rinsed and drained beans, and the diced green chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Thicken (The Secret):Once simmering, use an immersion blender or carefully scoop about 1 cup of the chili mixture (mostly beans) into a separate blender. Blend until smooth, then return the creamy bean mixture back to the pot. This creates a natural, thick texture without using flour.
4. Add Chicken and Cream:Stir in the shredded chicken. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the cream cheese fully melts and the chili becomes smooth and uniform.
5. Finish and Season:Stir in the fresh lime juice. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
6. Serve:Ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like cilantro, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips.

Garnish Game: Essential Toppings

A chili is never truly complete without the perfect garnish. Think of toppings as the crowning glory—they provide texture, color, and contrasting flavor notes. I highly recommend a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier swap), fresh chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. For crunch, nothing beats crushed tortilla chips or lightly toasted pepitas. The subtle heat from pickled jalapeños also provides an excellent counterpoint to the richness of the creamy chili base.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Achieve the best results by searing the aromatics first; this blooms the spices and sets a deep flavor foundation. Next, briefly simmer the broth and beans before blending a portion to naturally thicken the base. Finally, reduce the heat before incorporating the cream cheese and heavy cream to prevent scorching.

Add Your Touch

You can easily swap the chicken for shredded turkey for a festive twist. Boost the heat with a pinch of cayenne or a dash of chipotle powder. For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and add corn kernels or additional beans, like cannellini. Always finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, use the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili appears too thick, add a small splash of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy texture before serving.

I once served this exact white chicken chili recipe during a massive blizzard, and my normally reserved Uncle Frank declared it the best thing he had ever eaten—high praise for a man who critiques even water temperature.

Insider Advice for the Ultimate Creamy Chili

• Do not boil the chili after adding the dairy components; only gentle simmering is required. High heat can cause the cream cheese to separate or clump up.

• Always incorporate lime juice right at the end of the cooking process. Adding it too early makes the chili taste dull, whereas the fresh zing brightens all the other savory notes.

• Use pre-cooked, cubed chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more succulent texture, as they hold up better to simmering and retain moisture wonderfully.

Beyond the Bowl: Serving Suggestions

While this creamy white chicken chili is undoubtedly satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can turn a simple dinner into a feast. Keep the sides light and fresh to balance the richness of the main dish. A crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette offers necessary acidity and crunch. Alternatively, serving the chili alongside warm, fluffy cornbread is a timeless combination that truly encapsulates comfort food. You can even serve this chili over steamed rice or baked potatoes for an extra hearty meal, making it incredibly versatile.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Chicken Chili

How do I make the chili thicker without adding flour?

The best method for natural thickening is blending. Remove about a cup of the cooked beans and broth, blend until completely smooth, and return the purée to the pot. This mashed bean paste acts as a perfect, starchy thickener.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but you should cook and shred the chicken completely before adding it to the simmering chili base. Trying to cook raw chicken directly in the chili can dilute the flavor and lengthen the cooking time unnecessarily.

Is this chili freezer-friendly?

Chili generally freezes well, but due to the high dairy content (cream cheese and heavy cream), the texture might change slightly upon thawing, sometimes becoming a little grainy. To minimize separation, reheat it very slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring constantly, and add a fresh splash of milk if needed.

What is a good non-dairy alternative for the creaminess?

If you need to avoid dairy, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk (from a can, not a carton) or a suitable plain cashew cream. These alternatives still provide excellent richness and body to the comforting white chicken chili.

Why do I need to rinse the beans?

Rinsing canned beans removes excess starch and sodium. If you skip rinsing, the chili liquid can become cloudy and overly thick from the residual canning liquid, affecting the overall texture and clean flavor profile of the dish.

ThisCreamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipetruly delivers on its promise of flavor and simplicity. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or whenever you need a boost of culinary joy without the hassle of complex preparations. Enjoy this deeply satisfying bowl of deliciousness!

The Day the Dinner Bell Rang Too Early

Let’s be honest, weeknights are chaotic masterpieces of juggling carpools, deadlines, and the crushing weight of having to answer the eternal question: “What’s for dinner?” If your kitchen often looks like a culinary crime scene by 6 PM, this recipe is your superhero cape. We’re talking about a ridiculously fast, deeply satisfying pot of warmth. Forget complex layering; we simply dump ingredients, stir until creamy, and conquer the hunger monster. This creamy white chicken chili is the ultimate act of self-care disguised as dinner, ready to rescue your tired soul from the dreaded takeout menus. It’s the definition of easy comfort food.

Unlike some of its fiery red cousins, this white chili offers a milder, profoundly comforting experience. The secret lies in the blend of hearty Great Northern beans, tender shredded chicken, and a silky, rich base achieved without hours of simmering. It feels fancy, but your required effort level is strictly “pajamas and a remote control.” It’s designed to taste like you spent the entire afternoon perfecting it, when in reality, you probably spent that time arguing with a teenager about smartphone privileges. We promise this recipe delivers peak flavor with minimal fuss.

Why This Creamy White Chicken Chili Is Your New Best Friend

This dish masters the balance between light flavor and heavy comfort. The addition of cream cheese transforms simple broth into a velvety masterpiece, making this recipe a standout among quick dinners. By using pre-cooked chicken, you dramatically cut down the total time, ensuring you spend less time stirring and more time relaxing. This recipe is fundamentally forgiving, making it perfect for novice cooks or veterans having an extremely weary evening. When you crave satisfying, deeply flavored food without the stress, turn to this incredible pot of gold.

Essential Ingredients for Maximum Creaminess

You don’t need a gourmet pantry for this culinary triumph. We rely on simple staples that deliver a huge flavor payoff. Make sure you grab quality chicken breast or thighs (pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully for speed), and do not skimp on the cream cheese—that’s where the luxurious magic happens. We balance the richness with plenty of broth and a necessary tang from lime juice, ensuring the final dish is lush but never heavy. It’s all about creating that perfect velvety texture that happily coats the back of a spoon.

• Two tablespoons olive oil

• One large yellow onion, chopped

• Two cloves garlic, minced

• Two cups cooked and shredded chicken (about one pound raw)

• Three 15-ounce cans Great Northern or Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• Four cups low-sodium chicken broth

• One block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes

• One cup half-and-half or whole milk

• One teaspoon dried oregano

• One teaspoon cumin powder

• Half teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

The Simple Steps to Chili Nirvana

Get ready for the easiest cooking process of your life. This recipe is nearly impossible to mess up, which is exactly what we need when the week is dragging.

Sautéing the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which usually takes about five minutes. Throw in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Crucially, do not let the garlic burn, or you risk making your chili taste faintly like regret. Fragrance is key here—it signals that the flavor foundation is perfectly set for the remaining ingredients.

Building the Broth Base

Pour in the four cups of chicken broth and stir in the drained beans, the shredded chicken, oregano, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. This initial simmering period allows the essential spices to fully bloom and integrate into the broth, significantly deepening the overall savory profile of the final dish. Cover the pot and let it bubble gently for about fifteen minutes to ensure the flavors truly marry.

Achieving Peak Creaminess

Now, for the main event: the cream cheese. Reduce the heat immediately to low and add the cubes of softened cream cheese along with the half-and-half or milk. Stir the mixture continuously until the cream cheese completely melts and fully incorporates, transforming the liquid into a luxurious, thick soup base. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you desire a slightly thicker chili, you can mash about a quarter of the beans against the side of the pot just before adding the cream cheese. Serve the glorious result piping hot with all your favorite toppings.

Conclusion for Creamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe

The relentless search for the perfect weeknight meal ends right here. This creamy white chicken chili delivers on every promise: it’s incredibly fast to prepare, deeply flavorful, and provides that profound, comforting satisfaction only a hearty bowl of chili can offer. We successfully bypassed complex cooking steps, leveraging the combined power of rich cream cheese and tender shredded chicken to create a luxurious texture in mere minutes. Whether you are hosting friends or simply trying to survive a busy Tuesday, this easy comfort food dinner recipe is guaranteed to become a dependable, celebrated family favorite. Go ahead, grab a ladle, and enjoy the blissful simplicity of this truly spectacular dish.

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FAQs

How do I make my Creamy White Chicken Chili – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Recipe thicker without flour?

If you prefer a heartier texture in your chili without resorting to traditional thickening agents like flour or cornstarch, try utilizing the natural starch already present in the beans. Before adding the cream cheese, use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to crush approximately one-third of the Great Northern beans directly against the side of the pot. The starch released from the mashed beans acts as a brilliant natural thickener, providing a rich, velvety consistency without altering the flavor profile. This method keeps your Creamy White Chicken Chili naturally gluten-free and ensures it remains satisfyingly structured.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time for this easy comfort food dinner recipe?

Absolutely, pre-cooking the chicken significantly reduces the overall preparation time for this wonderful weeknight meal. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is the absolute ultimate shortcut, allowing you to skip the cooking step entirely and just shred the meat. If you prefer cooking it yourself, simply poach or bake a few chicken breasts earlier in the day and shred them finely. Storing the shredded chicken in the refrigerator means you can have this easy comfort food dinner recipe on the table in under 20 minutes once you start assembling, making weeknight meal prep virtually stress-free.

What are the best toppings to serve with Creamy White Chicken Chili?

The beauty of this white chili is its great versatility when it comes to garnishes. Essential toppings greatly enhance both the flavor and the texture of the finished dish. We highly recommend adding a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the rich sauce and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for freshness. For satisfying crunch, try crushed tortilla chips or salty oyster crackers. A generous dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt provides a necessary cooling contrast to the warmth of the spices, while shredded Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully into the hot soup, elevating every single spoonful.

Does this creamy white chicken chili freeze well for future meals?

Yes, this creamy white chicken chili freezes surprisingly well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping and future busy days. While dairy-based soups can sometimes separate slightly upon thawing, the richness of the cream cheese in this recipe holds up better than thinner cream sauces. Cool the chili completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months. When reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of fresh broth or milk if the texture needs thinning.