When it gets cold outside, I think of warm meals. Last week, I made my favorite crockpot white chicken chili. The smell made my kitchen feel cozy.
It only took 5 minutes to prepare. Then, I let it cook for 8 hours. By dinner, I was excited to eat it. It’s a family favorite and a winner in chili contests.
This recipe is easy and makes a big, warm bowl of food. If you want a meal that warms you up, you’re in the right place!
What is Crockpot White Chicken Chili?
Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a tasty twist on regular chili. It uses white beans and chicken instead of tomatoes. It’s creamy and savory, with flavors like cumin and oregano.
This chili is creamy because of cream cheese, chicken broth, and cream. It cooks slowly, making it warm and comforting. It’s ready in about 8 hours, perfect for busy days.
This chili is big on flavor, serving six people with leftovers. It has white cheddar cheese, garlic, and green chiles. It’s different from red chilies, being creamy and full of taste.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 ¼ pounds |
| Low-sodium chicken stock | 4 cups (32 ounces) |
| Reduced-sodium white beans | 2 (15-ounce) cans |
| Diced green chiles | 2 (4.5-ounce) cans |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves |
| Yellow onion, finely diced | 1 small |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Chopped fresh cilantro | ¼ cup |
Why Choose Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili?
Slow cooker meals make cooking easy and fun. They let flavors mix slowly, making food taste better. This way, you get a rich taste that quick cooking can’t match.
On busy weeknights, slow cooker white chicken chili is perfect. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare. Then, just set it and forget it for 7 to 10 hours.
Slow cookers are great for feeding many people. This chili makes about 7 1/2 cups, perfect for big gatherings. Plus, you can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later.
Slow cooker white chicken chili is not just tasty and easy. It also brings people together for a great meal.
Key Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili
The essential ingredients for creamy white chicken chili mix well. They make the dish tasty and comforting. Knowing these ingredients helps make a great bowl of chili.
Chicken Breasts
One pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts is key. It’s the main protein and is both healthy and juicy. Cooking it in a slow cooker makes it flavorful and safe to eat.
White Beans
White beans, like Great Northern or cannellini, add creaminess and texture. I use three 15-ounce cans, which is about 4.5 cups cooked. They make the chili hearty and filling, great for those who love healthy food.
Green Chiles
Green chiles bring a gentle heat and flavor. I use two 4-ounce cans, making the chili medium spicy. Their tanginess balances the other flavors, making it friendly for families.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1 pound | Main protein source |
| White Beans | 3 (15-ounce) cans | Adds texture and creaminess |
| Green Chiles | 2 (4-ounce) cans | Provides gentle heat and robust flavor |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups | Base liquid for the chili |
| Onion | ½ medium | Enhances flavor base |
| Corn | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and crunch |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Boosts overall flavor |
| Cream Cheese | 4 ounces | Provides creaminess |
How to Make Crockpot White Chicken Chili
This easy chili recipe is simple to follow. I’ll show you how to make a tasty white chicken chili. You’ll learn how to prepare and cook it, even if you’re new to cooking.
Preparation Steps
- Gather 1.5 lbs. of chicken breasts or thighs.
- Open two 15-oz. cans of Cannellini beans, drain, and rinse them.
- Prepare either an 8.75 oz. can of whole kernel corn or two cups of frozen corn.
- Measure out 30 oz. of chicken broth or stock, equivalent to two 15-oz. cans, or use 4 cups of water mixed with 2 chicken bouillon cubes.
- Open a 4 oz. can of fire roasted green chiles or dice one poblano pepper.
- Chop one cup of sweet yellow onion.
- Set aside spices: 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of cumin, 3/4 tsp of oregano, 1/2 tsp of chili powder, and 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper.
Cooking Instructions
Put the chicken, beans, corn, broth, green chiles, onion, and spices in your slow cooker. It’s easy—just add everything and stir.
Set the slow cooker to cook for 8 hours on LOW or 4 hours on HIGH. After cooking, shred the chicken with two forks. Mix it back into the chili.
Add 1 cup of sour cream and a package of cream cheese 15 minutes before serving. This makes the chili creamy.
Here’s a handy table summarizing the key ingredients and cooking times:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts or Thighs | 1.5 lbs. |
| Cannellini Beans | 30 oz. (2 cans) |
| Whole Kernel Corn | 8.75 oz. or 2 cups frozen |
| Chicken Broth | 30 oz. (2 cans) or 4 cups water + 2 bouillon cubes |
| Fire Roasted Green Chiles | 4 oz. or 1 diced poblano |
| Sweet Yellow Onion | 1 cup diced |
| Cooking Time | 4 hours on HIGH or 8 hours on LOW |
Follow these easy steps, and you’ll make a delicious white chicken chili. It will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the tasty flavors and warmth it adds to your meals!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chili
When making white chicken chili, some tips can make it better. The right mix of flavors and creamy texture are key. These tips will help you make a chili you’ll love.
Choosing the Right Heat Level
Choosing the right green chiles is important. Poblanos are mild, while jalapeños are spicy. Start with a little and add more if you want more heat.
Making Your Chili Creamy
For creamy chili, use reduced fat cream cheese or heavy whipping cream. These keep it rich but not too heavy. You can also add more broth for flavor and texture. Find the right mix for your taste.
Using these tips, you can make your chili just right. Enjoy making it and eating it!
Delicious Variations of White Chicken Chili
Get creative with white chicken chili. You can use different proteins, beans, and spices. Try ground turkey for a leaner taste. Or add shredded rotisserie chicken for extra moisture.
Don’t just use white beans. Black beans add color and depth. You can also mix in pinto beans or chickpeas for more protein. Sour cream or cream cheese make the chili creamy and tangy.
Spice it up with fresh herbs like cilantro or lime juice. Add smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky flavor. Experiment with cumin and cayenne for the perfect heat.
| Topping | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Shredded cheese (sharp cheddar) | Rich and creamy |
| Tortilla chips | Crunchy and salty |
| Sour cream | Cooling and tangy |
| Avocado | Rich and buttery |
| Tomato salsa | Fresh and zesty |
| Chopped green onions | Bright and aromatic |
Share your favorite chili recipes with others. They might come up with new ideas you haven’t tried yet!
Healthy Chicken Chili Options
When I want comfort food, I think of healthy white chicken chili. It’s tasty and good for you. It’s great for a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Using less fat cream cheese is a smart move. I swap it for Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess and protein. It keeps the chili tasty without extra fat.
I also add more fiber. Beans like Great Northern or cannellini are good choices. Mashing some beans makes the chili thicker and more fiber-rich.
Adding veggies like poblano peppers and garlic makes the chili colorful and nutritious. My family loves it. You can also adjust the spice to your liking.
Here are some tips for a healthier white chicken chili:
| Ingredient | Standard Option | Healthy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 4 ounces | Plain Greek Yogurt (2% fat) |
| Beans | 2 cans (15-ounce) | Mash 1 cup for thickness |
| Vegetables | Standard amount | Add additional veggies |
| Protein | 1 pound chicken | Leftover or rotisserie chicken |
With these changes, my chili is a hit. It’s a healthy twist on a classic dish that everyone loves.
Serving Suggestions for Your Chili
When you serve white chicken chili, add some tasty toppings. This makes the dish even better. It also makes everyone happy and excited to eat.
Top it Off with Fresh Ingredients
Adding fresh ingredients makes your chili taste amazing. Try these:
- Avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla strips for crunch
- Shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack
- A squeeze of lime for brightness
What to Pair with Your Chili
Choosing the right side dishes is key. Here are my favorites:
- Cornbread, warm and buttery
- Rice, providing a filling accompaniment
- A fresh garden salad, adding a crisp contrast
- Guacamole and tortilla chips, for a fun twist
For drinks, try a light beer or iced tea. They go great with chili. These choices make your meal complete and delicious.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Enjoying crockpot white chicken chili again is easy. Just follow some simple steps for storing and reheating. This way, the chili stays tasty and fresh, whether in the fridge or freezer.
How to Freeze Your Chili Safely
To keep the chili’s flavor and texture, follow these tips:
- Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Let the chili cool down before putting it in containers.
- Write the date and type on the containers for later.
- Freeze in small portions for easy reheating.
This way, you can enjoy the chili for up to three months. It’s perfect for busy days.
Best Reheating Methods
Reheating chili is all about keeping it tasty and creamy. Here’s how to do it:
- Stovetop: Put the chili in a saucepan and heat it low and slow. Stir often to avoid sticking.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway for even warming.
- Only reheat what you plan to eat. This keeps leftovers fresh and safe.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (airtight container) | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer (airtight container) | Up to 3 months |
| Freezer (vacuum-sealed | Up to 6 months |
Why This Is the Best White Chicken Chili Recipe
This white chicken chili recipe is a winner for many reasons. It’s quick to make, ready in just 5 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something comforting.
The flavors are amazing, thanks to tender chicken, creamy beans, and zesty spices. It’s a dish that makes you want more.
People love this recipe because it suits everyone’s taste. It’s great for cozy days or big gatherings. It serves 8 to 12 people, making it perfect for family or parties.
It’s also great for leftovers or freezing for later. This makes it a favorite for many.
After trying many white chicken chili recipes, I found the best. It has tender chicken and wholesome beans. It’s a must-try for a delicious meal.
Give this crockpot white chicken chili a try. Its rich, creamy taste will make it your go-to dish.
