Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for those chilly days when you need something hearty to warm you up. Made with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and flavorful spices, this chili is both rich and satisfying. Best of all, it’s made in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it while it develops all those amazing flavors.
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
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (cubed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, white beans, Great Northern beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth.
- Sprinkle the cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the top.
Step 2: Cook the Chili
- 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 tender and fully cooked.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir to mix the shredded chicken evenly with the other ingredients.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese and Cream
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the slow cooker and stir well to help it melt into the chili.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
- Stir in the fresh lime juice for a bright, zesty finish.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or tortilla chips.
Cooking Notes
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened and cut into small cubes so it melts more easily into the chili.
- Beans: You can use any white beans you have on hand, such as cannellini or navy beans.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
Variations
Spicy White Chicken Chili
- Add a diced jalapeño along with the other ingredients or increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Green Enchilada White Chicken Chili
- Stir in 1/2 cup of green enchilada sauce for an extra tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Dairy-Free White Chicken Chili
- Replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version of this chili.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply add it during the last hour of cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s an easy and convenient recipe that brings comfort food to the table with minimal effort. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or creamy, there are plenty of ways to customize this chili to suit your taste. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy every comforting bite.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the cozy warmth of this Creamy White Chicken Chili!