This Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a rich, creamy texture with just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this chili is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal effort, you can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or cheese for added texture and taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly evening or a game day gathering, this chili fits right in.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken, beans, and vegetables, it’s a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on health.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chili.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting the flavors meld beautifully over time.
- Cutting board & knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely before they go into the slow cooker.
Ingredients
This creamy white chicken chili is made super easy in your crockpot! Creamy with plenty of spice, it’s the perfect companion on a chilly night!
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed of excess fat)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 24 oz. chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 15oz cans great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 4oz cans diced green chiles (I do one hot, one mild)
- 1 15oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 3/4 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Creamy Additions & Toppings
- small handful fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 4 oz reduced fat cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup half and half
- sliced jalapenos
- sliced avocados
- dollop of sour cream
- minced fresh cilantro
- tortilla strips
- shredded Monterey jack or Mexican cheese
How to Make Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Add chicken breasts to the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Top with diced onion, minced garlic, great Northern beans, green chiles, corn, chicken broth, and cilantro. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Chili
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken to a large mixing bowl. Shred it using two forks then return it to the slow cooker.
Step 5: Blend in Creaminess
Add cream cheese and half and half to the mixture. Stir well then cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 15 minutes or until creamy.
Step 6: Ensure Smoothness (Optional)
For an extra smooth blend of cream cheese:
1. In a small mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese.
2. Ladle in a few scoops of chili from the slow cooker.
3. Whisk until smooth then stir back into the slow cooker along with half and half.
Step 7: Serve
Stir well before serving. Garnish with desired toppings such as sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, sour cream dollops, fresh cilantro, tortilla strips, or shredded cheese. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili!
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
This creamy crockpot white chicken chili is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enhance the experience with a variety of toppings and sides that complement its rich flavors.
Toppings
- Sliced Jalapeños: Add a spicy kick to your chili with fresh jalapeño slices.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a refreshing balance to the dish.
- Sour Cream Dollop: A spoonful of sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that pairs well with the spices.
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for an herbal note that brightens the chili.
- Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips add texture and make for a fun eating experience.
- Shredded Cheese: Melted Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese on top creates an indulgent finish.
How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
To make your creamy crockpot white chicken chili even better, consider these simple tips. They can help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion will enhance the flavor significantly, making your chili taste homemade.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or use all hot green chiles.
- Blend Cream Cheese Smoothly: For a creamy texture, whisk cream cheese with some chili before adding it back into the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
- Try Different Beans: Substitute great Northern beans with black beans or pinto beans for a different taste profile.
- Use Homemade Broth: Homemade chicken broth adds depth of flavor compared to store-bought varieties.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Pairing side dishes with your creamy crockpot white chicken chili can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s rich broth.
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or cilantro-lime rice serves as a neutral base that balances the spice.
- Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
- Guacamole Chips: Serve tortilla chips alongside guacamole for extra crunch and flavor enhancements.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This sweet and savory salad complements the chili’s spices beautifully.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with cheese and green onions pair wonderfully with creamy chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients can lead to bland chili. Make sure to use all the spices listed for a full flavor experience.
- Not using low sodium broth: Using regular chicken broth can make your chili too salty. Opt for low sodium options to control the saltiness.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Ensure that you follow the recommended cooking times closely.
- Neglecting to shred the chicken properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it can result in large chunks that affect texture. Shred it finely for a better mix.
- Forgetting toppings: Toppings enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip adding jalapenos, avocados, or cheese for that perfect finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
- Place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili that might help you out!
What makes Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili so special?
This chili is rich and creamy with a perfect blend of spices, making it comforting on chilly nights. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Can I customize my Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels, swap beans, or add vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition and taste.
How do I ensure my chili is creamy?
To achieve a smooth texture, whisk softened cream cheese with some chili before mixing it back into the pot.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken; just increase cooking time by an hour when using a slow cooker.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its versatility allows you to tailor it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl filled with comfort!
Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and a blend of spices that infuse every bite with rich flavor. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. With customizable toppings like avocado, sour cream, and jalapeños, this chili is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 24 oz low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cans (4 oz each) diced green chiles
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn (drained)
- 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup half and half
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne.
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, beans, green chiles, corn, broth, and cilantro on top. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in a bowl using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in cream cheese and half and half until well blended; cook on HIGH for an additional 15 minutes until creamy.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
