This creamy white chicken chili is one of the easiest slow cooker dinner recipes you will ever make. It is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight meal with minimal effort. You can set it and forget it, coming home to a delicious dinner ready to enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Beans: Great Northern beans or cannellini beans work best.
- Corn: Frozen or canned corn is fine.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese for creaminess.
- Broth: Chicken broth is essential.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 (15-ounce) cans Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups chicken broth
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools Needed: 6-quart slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the rinsed and drained Great Northern beans, drained corn, and diced green chiles.
2. Add Spices and Broth
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the ingredients. Pour in the chicken broth.
3. Cook the Chili
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred Chicken and Add Cream Cheese
Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Add the softened cream cheese to the slow cooker and stir until it melts and the chili becomes creamy. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine everything.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with your favorite toppings. This is one of the best slow cooker dinner recipes for a cozy meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or onions for more flavor and texture.
- Spicier Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover creamy white chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the chili seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it may increase the cooking time slightly.
- What are good toppings for this chili? Sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and tortilla strips are all great options.
- Can you freeze this chili? Yes, this chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Do you have to rinse the canned beans? Yes, rinsing canned beans helps remove excess sodium and improves their texture.
- Can you use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more richness and moisture to the chili.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? As written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check your broth and seasoning labels to be sure.