There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s a Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili that practically makes itself! As a busy woman who loves to whip up quick family dinners, I can tell you that this recipe is a game-changer. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a delightful blend of spices, it’s the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty yet easy. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to traditional chili, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner ideas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything in the slow cooker!
- Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.
- Rich and creamy flavor that everyone will love.
- Great for leftovers, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Can be customized with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (like cannellini or great northern) (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (14 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for serving)
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 lime wedges (for serving)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into how to make this White Chicken Chili in your slow cooker:
- Prepare the chicken by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white beans, chicken broth, diced green chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
- Pour the bean mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the corn on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in the cream (or half-and-half) until fully combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Chili turns out perfectly:
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices overnight before cooking.
- If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Feel free to swap out the beans for your favorites or add in some diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream.
- Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime really elevate the dish.
How to Serve
This Chicken Chili is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with:
- Warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping.
- A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- For a fun twist, try it over baked potatoes!
And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my Chili Recipe for a classic twist or explore some easy pasta recipes for a different flavor profile!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal! Here’s how to store it:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- It also freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker and let’s make this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili a staple in your home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl!
White Chicken Chili Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Method
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Mix beans, broth, chilies, onion, garlic, and spices; pour over chicken.
- Cook on low for 6 hours, then shred chicken and return to the pot.
- Stir in cream, then serve garnished with cheese, cilantro, and lime.