The Best Crockpot White Chicken Chili Youāll Ever Make
Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals that leave your family unimpressed? Weāve all been thereāscrambling for something quick, hearty, and comforting that doesnāt require a full day in the kitchen. Thatās where crockpot white chicken chili swoops in to save the day. Creamy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy, itās everything you could want in a meal.
But waitāhave you ever taken a bite of chili and thought, āThis is good, but somethingās missingā? Thatās what this guide is for. Weāre not just giving you any chili recipe. Weāre giving you the recipeāa game-changer that your slow cooker will thank you for.
Letās skip the boring introductions and get straight to making the best white chicken chili of your life.
What Is Crockpot White Chicken Chili?
Crockpot white chicken chili is a creamy, slow-cooked dish packed with shredded chicken, white beans, and green chiles.
Unlike traditional chili that uses tomatoes and beef, this one features a velvety broth made with cream cheese and chicken stock.
Itās mildly spiced and perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a crowd.
What Is the Difference Between Chili and White Chili?
The main difference between traditional chili and white chili is the base and protein.
Traditional chili usually has a tomato-based broth and uses beef as the main protein. White chili, on the other hand, features a creamy, often dairy-based broth and uses chicken or turkey as the protein.
It also typically includes mild green chiles for flavor instead of the stronger spices found in red chili.
Why Crockpot White Chicken Chili Is the Perfect Meal
1. Convenience Is King
Toss the ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, and by dinnertime, youāve got a hot, homemade meal waiting. Itās the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe.
2. Loaded with Flavor
The mix of smoky spices, creamy broth, and tender chicken creates a depth of flavor that feels like youāve been cooking all day.
3. Great for Families
This recipe is kid-friendly, easy to customize, and perfect for feeding picky eaters without complaints.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
Our twist? Fire-roasted corn and fresh lime juice.
The corn adds a smoky sweetness that balances the richness of the broth, while lime juice brightens everything up.
Itās a small change, but it makes a big difference.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a part. Letās break it down:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, providing lean protein and shredding beautifully.
- White Beans: Creamy and hearty, these beans soak up the spices and broth.
- Fire-Roasted Corn: Adds a touch of smoky sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Green Chiles: Mild heat and tangy flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Onions and Garlic: Build the flavor base with their natural sweetness and aroma.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid backbone of the chili, tying everything together.
- Cream Cheese: Creates the creamy texture we all crave in white chicken chili.
- Spices: Cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne deliver just the right kick.
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain the beans and corn. Place your chicken breasts directly in the crockpot.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add the beans, corn, green chiles, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken. Sprinkle in the spices. Pour in the chicken broth.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Walk away and let the magic happen.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred it, then return it to the pot.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Stir in the cream cheese until it melts completely. For an even creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream.
Step 6: Finish with Lime
Squeeze fresh lime juice into the chili just before serving. It balances the richness and adds a pop of brightness.
Crockpot White Chicken Chile Recipe
Print
Crockpot White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 min
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This recipe is perfect for a comforting, creamy meal thatās easy to prepare. The addition of fire-roasted corn brings a touch of originality that enhances the smoky and creamy flavor balance. Whether youāre cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals ahead, this Crockpot White Chicken Chili is sure to be a favorite!
Equipment
- Slow cooker (minimum 6-quart capacity)
- Cutting board and knife
- Garlic press (optional)
- Mixing spoon
- Tongs or forks for shredding chicken
Ingredients
Protein:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Beans & Vegetables:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted corn, drained
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (4 oz each) diced green chiles
Liquids & Dairy:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Ingredients:
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the drained beans, fire-roasted corn, diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green chiles. - Add Seasonings and Liquids:
Sprinkle cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth. - Cook the Chili:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. - Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use tongs or two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir. - Incorporate Creaminess:
Add the cream cheese to the slow cooker and stir until fully melted and incorporated. Stir in the heavy cream. - Add Brightness:
Squeeze the lime juice into the chili and stir. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. - Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the chili into bowls. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips, if desired.
Notes
This recipe uses fire-roasted corn for a smoky depth that balances the creamy base and bright lime juice. Unlike regular corn, fire-roasted corn enhances the chili with a subtle charred sweetness, giving it a slight edge over more traditional recipes.
Cooking Tip: For an even thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of masa harina with 2 tablespoons of water, and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing Instructions: This chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 Hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker, Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Is It Okay to Put Raw Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, itās completely safe to put raw chicken in a slow cooker.
The low and steady heat of the crockpot ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and safely, reaching a temperature of at least 165Ā°F.
Just make sure to follow proper food safety guidelines, such as washing your hands and using separate utensils for raw and cooked chicken.
Can I Put Raw Meat in the Crockpot for Chili?
Yes, you can put raw meat, including beef or chicken, directly in the crockpot for chili.
The slow cooking process will cook the meat safely and evenly. Browning the meat beforehand is optional, but it can add an extra layer of flavor.
Is Chili Better in a Crockpot or on the Stove?
Chili in a crockpot is ideal for a hands-off approach and deep flavor development, as the ingredients have hours to meld together.
Stove-cooked chili, while quicker, requires more attention and can sometimes lack the same depth of flavor.
If time isnāt a factor, the crockpot is the way to go for the best results.
Ingredient Alternatives
- Chicken: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- Beans: Use cannellini or navy beans instead of Great Northern beans.
- Corn: If fire-roasted corn isnāt available, use regular corn and add a dash of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
- Cream Cheese: NeufchĆ¢tel cheese works as a lighter substitute.
Nutritional Insights
Each serving of this crockpot white chicken chili contains:
- Calories: 365
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 7g
FAQs About Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeƱos or an extra pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Mix 1 tablespoon of masa harina with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Yes, turkey or shredded pork works well as substitutes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Yes! Freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Try shredded cheese, avocado slices, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream.
It is! Just double-check that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
The Final Bite
There you have itāthe best crockpot white chicken chili recipe youāll ever try. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, itās a meal your whole family will rave about. Now grab your crockpot and make dinnertime amazing!
Disclosure: This article uses automation for structure, but all insights and advice are provided by Ryan Yates, an experienced executive chef with over 20 years of expertise. Additionally, this post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to keep providing high-quality content.