When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of white chicken chili slow cooker to wrap your taste buds in a cozy embrace. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a creamy, zesty broth, teamed up with white beans and spices that dance on your palate like they’re auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” The aroma wafts through the house, inviting you to grab a spoon and dive right in.

This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience. Picture family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and bowls are passed around like treasures. I still remember the first time I made this white chicken chili slow cooker—it was a chilly evening, and my friends were coming over for game night. With each spoonful, they declared it the MVP of the night, overshadowing even the most heated debates about which team would win!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This white chicken chili slow cooker is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s so easy to prepare
- Its creamy flavor profile will leave everyone asking for seconds and thirds
- The visual appeal is off the charts with its vibrant colors from fresh herbs and spices
- This versatile dish can be served as a hearty main course or a delicious appetizer at gatherings
One particularly memorable evening, I served this chili during a snowstorm. My friends arrived bundled up like marshmallows, but once they tasted that first bite of creamy goodness, all they could do was smile contentedly.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture.
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White Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work beautifully here; both add creaminess and heartiness.
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Onion: A medium onion diced finely enhances sweetness as it cooks down in the slow cooker.
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Green Chilies: Canned green chilies add mild heat and a pop of color to your chili.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they bring out flavors that make you say “wow”!
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Cumin & Chili Powder: These spices are essential for that authentic chili flavor—don’t skip them!
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Cream Cheese: For creaminess that makes every bite feel indulgent without being too heavy.
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Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds freshness to each serving.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro not only looks good but adds herbaceous notes to balance richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that’s easier than finding your way out of IKEA.
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing garlic until fragrant; these two will be the base of your flavor explosion.
Load Up Your Slow Cooker: Place those diced chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker; they love being nestled under all those flavorful ingredients.
Add Beans and Spices: Toss in white beans, green chilies, diced onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder; mix well to combine all those gorgeous flavors.
Pour in Broth: Add chicken broth until everything is just covered; this is where the magic starts to happen as it simmers away.
Cream It Up: Cut cream cheese into chunks and drop them on top; don’t stir yet! Let them melt beautifully into your chili later on.
Set It & Forget It: Cover your slow cooker with its lid; set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show while it cooks!
Once done cooking, give it a gentle stir to incorporate all those beautiful ingredients. Ladle into bowls and finish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro if you fancy.
There you have it—the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul! Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful white chicken chili slow cooker recipe that’s sure to impress anyone who walks through your door!
This amazing white chicken chili slow cooker is perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors meld beautifully during cooking, creating a creamy and hearty dish. You can easily adjust the spices based on your family’s preferences, making it versatile and satisfying.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add your chicken and spices before pouring in the broth. This method builds flavor from the start.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add beans for extra protein. You can also sprinkle fresh cilantro or lime juice before serving for a refreshing twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and maximum flavor; it saves time without sacrificing taste
- Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste buds; everyone loves a personalized bowl of chili!
- A squeeze of lime at serving adds brightness and depth to this dish
The first time I made white chicken chili slow cooker, my friends devoured it like they hadn’t eaten in days, asking for seconds and thirds. Their compliments made my day!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in white chicken chili slow cooker?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it cooks thoroughly before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can swap heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How spicy can I make my white chicken chili slow cooker?
Adjust the cayenne pepper and jalapeños according to your heat preference to personalize the spiciness.
Creamy White Chicken Chili in the Slow Cooker
Warm up with this comforting white chicken chili, perfect for chilly nights. Juicy chicken combines with creamy white beans and zesty spices to create a deliciously hearty dish. Easy to prepare in your slow cooker, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups cannellini or Great Northern beans (canned, drained)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 (4 oz) cans green chilies
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Place diced chicken at the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Add white beans, green chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder; mix well.
- Pour in chicken broth until ingredients are just covered.
- Scatter cream cheese cubes on top without stirring.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir before serving; finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg