Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of chili on a crisp evening? I think not! This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a regular at our house, especially during the busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to throw together – talk about a win-win. This White Chicken Chili recipe is perfect for those days when you crave a home-cooked meal but don’t have a lot of time.
Top Reasons To Make It
This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is downright delicious, and that’s reason enough. But here are a few more reasons you’ll fall in love with it:
- It’s incredibly easy. Seriously, your slow cooker does nearly all the work!
- It’s healthy and packed with protein and fiber.
- It’s customizable. Don’t like spice? Easy fix! Prefer dark meat? Go for it!
- It’s a cozy meal, perfect for cool weather or busy weekdays.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need. I’ll give you measurements in the recipe card below, but here’s a sneak peek at what makes this dish sing.
- Chicken breasts: For the protein base. Rotisserie chicken is a great short cut.
- Great Northern beans: Adds creaminess and heartiness. Use canned for speed.
- Corn: Adds pops of sweetness. Use frozen or canned.
- Diced green chilies: Mild, tangy heat. Adjust to your preference – I like jalapeños for a little kick.
- Onion: Adds a bit of bite. You don’t even need to chop it if you’re busy!
- Garlic: Our flavor superhero!
- Chicken broth: Makes it saucy. Use low sodium for flavor control.
- Spices: Essential for that warming chili taste! Cumin, coriander, oregano
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of heat. Honestly, if you hate heat, skip it.
- Toppings: Your chance to shine! I love shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts, beans, corn, green chilies, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and spices in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and so, so tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks right in the slow cooker. It’s easier when it’s warm.
- Stir everything together and serve hot with desired toppings.
Crockpot Cooking Tips
- Don’t overfill your crockpot. About two-thirds full is ideal for even cooking.
- Resist the urge to lift the lid. Every time you do, you release heat and add time to the clock.
- If you want a thicker chili, remove some of the liquid at the end and simmer it on the stovetop until reduced. Then stir it back into the chili.
- For an extra flavor boost, brown the chicken briefly before adding it to the crockpot.
- Use your crockpot’s “keep warm” setting to maintain serving temp. Nothing worse than lukewarm chili.
- Have fun with it! One of the joys of cooking is making it your own.
Variations & Substitutions
This White Chicken Chili recipe is easily adaptable to fit various diets and taste preferences. Here are a few variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, jackfruit, or extra beans.
- Spice it up: Add a chopped jalapeño, a dash of chipotle powder, or some hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in some cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
- Boost flavor: Use a rotisserie chicken for a richer flavor.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
A bowl of this white chili is always good on it’s own, but here’s how to make it extra special.
- Serve with: Tortilla chips, crusty bread, or cornbread.
- Top with: Shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Make it a meal: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Always allow the chili to cool completely before storing and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few frequently asked questions about this easy slow cooker recipe.
- Can I make this White Chicken Chili recipe in an Instant Pot? You bet! Simply sauté the aromatics, add the remaining ingredients and pressure cook for about 15 minutes.
- Can I use different beans? Absolutely! Cannellini beans, navy beans, or even black beans would be great in this white chicken chili.
So there you have it, friends, my take on a comforting classic. I hope this Crockpot White Chicken Chili brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Enjoy!
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Cozy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is cozy, creamy, and full of flavor with tender chicken, white beans, corn, and green chilies. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and come back to a comforting bowl of chili that’s perfect for weeknights, game days, or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients
▢ 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
▢ 2 (15 oz) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
▢ 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
▢ 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (or sub jalapeños for more heat)
▢ 1 small onion (chopped or whole if you’re in a hurry)
▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▢ 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
▢ 1 teaspoon ground cumin
▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
▢ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
▢ 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
▢ Salt and pepper, to taste
▢ Toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Place the chicken breasts, drained beans, corn, green chilies, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and spices into your slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and very tender.
3. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot.
4. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust salt and spice levels as needed.
6. Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, and cilantro.
Notes
Shortcut: Use shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce cook time to 1–2 hours on HIGH.
Optional: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: white chicken chili, crockpot chili, easy chicken chili, slow cooker chili, healthy white chili