Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. As the long, slow cooking process simmers the ingredients together, it fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that just beckons you to the table. There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing everything into a crockpot and allowing it to work its magic. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests at a casual gathering, this chili ticks all the boxes.
Why you’ll love this dish
This white chicken chili is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone in the family will love. It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients. What makes this recipe particularly appealing is how it shines during busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish can be served as a main course or as a side at potluck gatherings.
“This white chicken chili has become a staple in our home! It’s easy, hearty, and my kids can’t get enough of it!” – Jamie L., happy home cook.
How this recipe comes together
Making this Crockpot White Chicken Chili is as simple as it sounds! Start by layering the chicken and adding the vegetables, spices, and cream cheese. Set the time, and let your slow cooker do all the hard work. In just a few hours, you’ll have a delicious, hot meal ready for the family.
Gather these items
To whip up this delicious chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can of corn
- 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chicken broth (optional, for desired consistency)
Note: You can easily substitute black beans with pinto beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Directions to follow
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Cut cream cheese into chunks and layer it on top.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, pour in some chicken broth.
- Secure the lid and set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the pot and mix everything together.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with cilantro, sour cream, or cheese.
How to plate and pair
Serving this chili can be as fun as making it! Dish it out in bowls and don’t be shy with toppings. Sprinkle fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it with homemade cornbread or tortilla chips for that extra crunch.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), this chili stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can safely store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Just remember to reheat until it’s piping hot and safely at a temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Helpful cooking tips
To make this dish even better, consider browning the chicken in a pan before placing it in the crockpot for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to load up on veggies, feel free to add chopped bell peppers or zucchini. For a creamier chili, mix in a bit of heavy cream just before serving.
Creative twists
One of the joys of this recipe is how versatile it can be! Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika for a smoky twist. Consider adding jalapeños if you like some heat, or swap the regular cream cheese for a flavored variety like garlic-herb for added excitement.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does this chili take to make?
A: It takes about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
Q: What can I serve with this chili?
A: This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even a crisp salad.
Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
A: Absolutely! You can add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick.
Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Cut cream cheese into chunks and layer it on top.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, pour in some chicken broth.
- Secure the lid and set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the pot and mix everything together.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with cilantro, sour cream, or cheese.
