Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
-
Prep time: 15 minutes
-
Cook time: 4 hours (High) or 8 hours (Low)
-
Servings: 6–8 people
Ingredients
| Category | Item | Quantity |
| Protein | Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 1.5 lbs |
| Aromatics | Diced yellow onion | 1 medium |
| Produce | Minced garlic | 3 cloves |
| Base | Low-sodium chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Canned Goods | Diced green chiles (mild) | 2 cans (4 oz each) |
| Beans | Great Northern or Cannellini beans (rinsed) | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
| Corn | Frozen or canned corn | 1 cup |
| Spices | Cumin, Oregano, Chili Powder, Salt, Pepper | To taste (approx. 1 tsp each) |
| Creamy Finish | Full-fat cream cheese (cubed) | 8 oz |
Instructions
-
Layer the Crockpot: Place the chicken at the bottom. Add the beans, onion, garlic, green chiles, corn, and all spices on top.
-
Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. Do not add the cream cheese yet.
-
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
-
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken to a plate, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
-
Make it Creamy: Add the cubed cream cheese to the pot. Stir, cover, and let it sit for another 15 minutes until melted and incorporated.
-
Serve: Stir well to ensure the base is creamy. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Chef’s Notes & Tips
-
The “Creamy” Secret: For an even thicker texture, take a half-cup of the beans and mash them before adding them to the pot.
-
Spice Level: This recipe is mild. If you want heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
-
Toppings are King: Don’t skip the fresh lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and crushed tortilla chips. They provide the necessary acidity and crunch.
Benefits
-
High Protein: Helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
-
Fiber-Rich: The beans provide a significant amount of dietary fiber for gut health.
-
Meal-Prep Friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day as the spices continue to develop.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
-
Calories: 340 kcal
-
Protein: 32g
-
Carbs: 28g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Fiber: 7g
Common Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s safer to thaw chicken first to ensure it reaches a safe cooking temperature quickly enough in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I substitute the cream cheese?
A: Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter version, but add these right before serving to prevent curdling.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Note that the beans will soak up more liquid over time, so you may need a splash of broth when reheating.