Slow cooker white chicken chili is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful dish perfect for busy days or cozy nights. Made with tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a creamy broth, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while you go about your day. This chili is mildly spiced, making it great for everyone, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, cilantro, or lime. Serve it with chips, bread, or on its own for a comforting meal.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it uses simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, comforting meal. Slow cooking the chicken ensures it’s tender and easy to shred, while the white beans and cream cheese add a creamy texture that makes this chili irresistible. The green chiles provide just the right amount of mild heat and tang, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Another reason to love this recipe is its ease and versatility. It requires minimal prep time and can be adjusted to suit your taste—add more spice for heat or extra veggies for a boost. Plus, the leftovers taste even better, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The base of the chili, tender and flavorful when shredded. Substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern) – Add creaminess and protein. Substitute with chickpeas or navy beans if desired.
Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the chili. Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version (if using plant-based chicken).
Green Chiles – Provide mild heat and flavor. Substitute with diced jalapeños or omit for a milder chili.
Cream Cheese – Makes the chili creamy and rich. Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.
Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken for easier shredding after cooking.
- Mash some of the beans for a thicker, creamier texture.
- Stir in the cream cheese at the end for a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Adjust spice levels by adding cayenne pepper or reducing the green chiles.
- Let the chili cook on low for the most tender chicken and well-developed flavors.
How to Serve
Slow cooker white chicken chili is warm, hearty, and perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
- Pair with a simple green salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
Similar Recipes
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can 4 oz green chiles
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Place the chicken, beans, chicken broth, green chiles, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt, about 10 minutes. Stir to combine fully.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
Notes
• Mash some of the beans for a thicker, creamier texture.
• Stir in the cream cheese at the end for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Adjust spice levels by adding cayenne pepper or reducing the green chiles.
• Let the chili cook on low for the most tender chicken and well-developed flavors.
This is a hearty slow cooker chicken stew with white beans.