If you're looking for a cozy meal, this Easy Crockpot White Bean Chicken Chili is just what you need. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; my son, Jake, couldn't stop raving about it. With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a kick from canned green chilies, it's a hit every time.
Why You’ll Love It
- It's super easy to throw together in the morning.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for lunches.
- The flavors meld beautifully as it cooks.
Pure Comfort
This chili is pure comfort in a bowl. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it satisfying and perfect for chilly days.
What You Need
- 1 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use thighs for more flavor.
- 2 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed – Cannellini or great northern beans work well.
- 1 1 can (4 oz) canned green chilies – Mild or hot, depending on your spice preference.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – You can substitute with a shallot if desired.
- 3 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds great flavor.
- 1 1 tsp ground cumin – This adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 1 tsp chili powder – Adjust to your heat preference.
- 4 4 cups chicken broth – Low-sodium is a good option.
- 1 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or fresh – Adds sweetness and texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Season as you prefer.
- 1 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) – For topping, optional.
- 1/4 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – For garnish, optional.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 6 hours | Total: 6 hours 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it stores well.
Steps to Make It
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the flavors. You'll know they're ready when they turn white and are no longer pink in the center.
- Next, add the drained white beans, canned green chilies, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. The mixture should look colorful and inviting, with the onions starting to soften.
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir everything together until well combined. The spices will give off a lovely aroma as they mix with the other ingredients.
- Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is submerged. It should look like a hearty stew, ready to bubble away for hours.
- Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 6 hours. You'll know it's done when the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. Mix it well with the chili to combine the flavors. It should be creamy and thick.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your liking, so don’t hesitate to add a little more spice if you like it hot.
- Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. The cheese should melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
Make It Perfect
- For a creamier texture, stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese just before serving.
- This chili is perfect for meal prep; just store it in airtight containers in the fridge.
- You can also add diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
Mix It Up
- Try adding diced tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Swap the chicken for turkey or even keep it vegetarian by using more beans.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with cornbread for a classic pairing.
- A side of tortilla chips adds a nice crunch.
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FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this chili stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey or even a mix of beans for a vegetarian option.
Is this chili spicy?
The spice level depends on the canned green chilies you choose. You can adjust it to your taste.
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot White Bean Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Whether you're prepping for a busy week or just craving a cozy meal, this chili recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful!
Easy Crockpot White Bean Chicken Chili
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts You can also use thighs for more flavor.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed Cannellini or great northern beans work well.
- 1 can (4 oz) canned green chilies Mild or hot, depending on your spice preference.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced You can substitute with a shallot if desired.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds great flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cumin This adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder Adjust to your heat preference.
- 4 cups chicken broth Low-sodium is a good option.
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or fresh Adds sweetness and texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season as you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) For topping, optional.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish, optional.
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Next, add the drained white beans, canned green chilies, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot.
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is submerged.
- Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 6 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro.