There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of creamy crockpot white chicken chili, especially on a chilly day. This dish is a hug in a bowl! It’s so easy to whip up; all you need to do is toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic. Trust me, the tender chicken, creamy broth, and the hint of spices come together in a way that’s just irresistible. Plus, it fits perfectly into our busy lives. You can set it and forget it while you tackle your day, and then come home to a comforting meal that practically cooks itself. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This is the heart of your chili, providing that tender, juicy goodness.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained – I love using cannellini or navy beans for their creamy texture and subtle flavor.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – This adds a nice kick and a pop of color to the dish!
- 1 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness, but it adds so much flavor.
- 1 onion, diced – The onion gives a wonderful base flavor; I usually go for a sweet onion for a milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must; it infuses the chili with a delightful aroma.
- 1 tsp cumin – This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that makes the chili irresistible.
- 1 tsp chili powder – A little heat goes a long way; adjust according to your spice preference!
- 1/2 tsp salt – Just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground works best for that extra kick!
- 1 cup cream cheese – This is what makes it creamy and dreamy; don’t skip this ingredient!
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned) – Adds a sweet crunch, bringing balance to the dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – For garnish, it adds a fresh note that brightens everything up!
How to Prepare Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Making creamy crockpot white chicken chili is as easy as pie! Seriously, you’re going to love how simple this is. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you by dinner time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. Think of it like laying the foundation for a delicious meal!
- Next, add the rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together gently to combine the flavors.
- Now, cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but I really recommend the low setting for the best flavors!
- When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. It should fall apart beautifully!
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, then add in the cream cheese and corn. Stir until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined. This is when it transforms into that creamy, dreamy concoction we all crave!
- Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness and color. And voilà! You’ve got a bowl of creamy crockpot white chicken chili that’s ready to be devoured!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to creamy crockpot white chicken chili, you can indulge without too much guilt! Here are the typical nutritional values based on a serving size of 1 cup. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 7g, Unsaturated Fat: 8g)
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g (Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 2g)
- Protein: 25g
This creamy delight is packed with protein from the chicken and beans, making it not only comforting but also quite satisfying! Feel free to adjust the ingredients to meet your dietary needs, and enjoy every warm, flavorful spoonful!
Tips for Success
To ensure your creamy crockpot white chicken chili turns out perfect every single time, here are a few pro tips! First off, don’t skip the cream cheese—it’s what gives this dish its rich, velvety texture. If you find the chili a bit thicker than you like, feel free to stir in a splash more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Another tip? Make sure to season to taste! Everyone has different spice tolerances, so adjust the cumin and chili powder based on your personal preference. And if you’re looking to add a little extra flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot; it really enhances the overall taste! Finally, don’t hesitate to let it cook on low for that full 8 hours if you can—it allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully. Happy cooking!
Variations of Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your creamy crockpot white chicken chili! For starters, try swapping out the white beans for pinto beans or even black beans for a different flavor profile. You can also boost nutrition and color by adding in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes—just dice them up and toss them right in with the other ingredients!
Feeling like a little more heat? Increase the chili powder or add in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. And if you want to switch things up even further, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving for a zesty twist. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for these variations! Get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your creamy crockpot white chicken chili, the right accompaniments can take it to the next level! I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips for that perfect dip-and-scoop action. They add a delightful texture that complements the creamy chili beautifully. You might also want to have some warm, crusty bread on the side; it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top adds a lovely touch. And don’t forget a fresh green salad to brighten the meal! These simple sides make every bowl of chili feel like a cozy feast.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of your creamy crockpot white chicken chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it up; this helps preserve that creamy goodness! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, and remember to label them with the date!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can either warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Just add a splash of chicken broth if it seems a little thick after reheating. Enjoy your delicious chili just like the first time around!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that it may take a bit longer to cook. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
What if I don’t have white beans?
No worries! You can substitute with pinto beans or even black beans if that’s what you have on hand. Each will give a different twist to your creamy crockpot white chicken chili, but they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months! Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! If you like heat, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. You can also spice it up with a dash of hot sauce just before serving for an extra kick!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This creamy crockpot white chicken chili is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those following a gluten-free diet. Just double-check your broth and any additional ingredients for gluten-free labels!
Learn more about white chicken chili variations.
Print
Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy crockpot white chicken chili is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, white beans, and spices in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add cream cheese and corn, stirring until cream cheese is melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve with tortilla chips or bread.
- Adjust spices to taste.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: creamy crockpot white chicken chili, white chicken chili recipe, slow cooker chili
