Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or any time you need a hearty, easy-to-make meal. This creamy chili is packed with tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a rich blend of spices, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Top it with your favorite garnishes for a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, and lime wedges (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, white beans, great northern beans, diced green chilies, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered by the liquid.

Step 2: Cook the Chili

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

1. Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the chili is creamy.
2. Let the chili cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on high to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the creamy white chicken chili into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
2. Serve with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side.

Cooking Notes

• Beans: White beans and great northern beans are used in this recipe, but you can substitute them with cannellini beans or any other type of white bean.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure it melts smoothly into the chili. You can microwave it for a few seconds if needed.
• Broth: Adjust the amount of chicken broth if you prefer a thicker or thinner chili.

Variations

Spicy White Chicken Chili

• Add 1 chopped jalapeño or 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that will bring some heat to the creamy base.

Vegetarian White Chili

• Replace the chicken with extra beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Southwest White Chicken Chili

• Add 1 cup of frozen corn and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a southwestern twist that adds extra sweetness and smokiness to the chili.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use cooked rotisserie chicken. Just add the shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking along with the cream cheese and heavy cream.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I Freeze This Chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. With its tender chicken, creamy texture, and rich blend of spices, this chili is sure to become a favorite. Customize it with your preferred garnishes or variations, and enjoy a hearty, easy-to-make meal that will warm you from the inside out.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite of this delicious white chicken chili!