When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of white chicken chili slow cooker. Picture this: creamy, spiced broth enveloping tender chicken, beans, and a medley of spices that dance on your taste buds. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking if dinner is ready yet.
I remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy family gathering. My uncle, who usually claims to be “not a chili person,” went back for seconds—and thirds! The warmth of that moment paired with the deliciousness of the chili made it unforgettable. Now, I make it whenever I want to impress guests or treat my family to something special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This white chicken chili slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The creamy texture and zesty flavors create a satisfying meal everyone will love
- It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and garnishes
- Ideal for game day or any cozy gathering with friends and family
I once served this dish at a potluck and received countless requests for the recipe, proving it’s not just me who thinks it’s amazing!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size or cravings.
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White Beans: Use canned beans for convenience; navy or Great Northern beans are excellent choices.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor.
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Fresh Garlic: Fresh cloves provide the best flavor; minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma during cooking.
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Onion: A sweet onion enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor in the chili.
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Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles add a mild kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
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Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices give your chili its signature warmth and earthiness; don’t skimp on them!
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Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess, making every spoonful feel indulgent.
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Fresh Cilantro (for garnish): Chopped cilantro adds freshness; it’s optional but highly recommended.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces if you’re feeling adventurous—just remember not to chop off any fingers.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic for an additional minute until everything smells heavenly.
Add Everything to Your Slow Cooker: Transfer sautéed onions and garlic into your slow cooker. Toss in diced chicken breasts, white beans, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and chicken broth. Give it all a good stir like you’re conducting an orchestra of flavors.
Let It Cook Low & Slow: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes—patience is key!
Add Creaminess at the End: When everything is tender and aromatic, stir in cream cheese until melted and incorporated. This transforms your chili from delicious to downright luxurious.
Serve & Garnish!: Ladle the white chicken chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro if desired. Pair with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for an extra treat!
Now that you’ve got all these steps lined up like ducks in a row, you’re ready to whip up this fantastic white chicken chili slow cooker masterpiece! Enjoy every warm spoonful as you bask in culinary glory!
You Must Know
- This white chicken chili slow cooker recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights
- It combines creamy textures with zesty flavors, making it a family favorite
- Plus, the aroma wafting through your home is enough to make anyone eager for dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by adding your chicken and broth to the slow cooker first. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly before you add other ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute black beans for pinto beans or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Personalize it as you like!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an even creamier white chicken chili, stir in some cream cheese before serving
- Don’t skip on seasoning; taste as you go!
- Also, letting it sit overnight enhances flavors significantly
I remember one chilly evening when I served this white chicken chili to a group of friends. They raved about it, asking for seconds and thirds, leaving me feeling like a culinary rock star.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in this white chicken chili slow cooker recipe?
Yes, but ensure it cooks longer to reach safe temperatures.
What can I serve with white chicken chili?
Tortilla chips, cornbread, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with this dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for that extra heat kick.
White Chicken Chili Slow Cooker
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm up your chilly evenings with this comforting white chicken chili made effortlessly in a slow cooker. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and a blend of spices, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The aroma alone will have everyone anticipating dinner, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (navy or Great Northern)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing onion and mincing garlic.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until translucent (3-5 mins). Add garlic for another minute.
- Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to a slow cooker. Add chicken breasts, white beans, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, stir in cream cheese until melted and combined.
- Serve hot in bowls topped with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
