Crockpot White Chicken Chili: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish

Name: Crockpot White Chicken Chili: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 pre-made pie crust

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of crockpot white chicken chili, especially on chilly evenings when the world seems to slow down. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is pure magic! This dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights. I remember cozy family gatherings where this chili would steal the show—everyone gathered around the table, bowls in hand, sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, it’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly. You can toss everything into the crockpot and let it do its thing, freeing you up to enjoy the little moments that matter most.

crockpot white chicken chili - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

How to Prepare Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Let’s start with the fun part—prepping your ingredients! First, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. This not only helps them cook evenly but also makes for easy eating later. Next, grab your onion and bell pepper. Dice them finely; this will add a lovely texture and sweetness to the chili. Don’t forget to mince the garlic! Fresh garlic brings a burst of flavor that really elevates the dish. Finally, if you’re using frozen corn, let it thaw a bit before adding it to the mix. Trust me, these little steps go a long way in maximizing the flavor of your crockpot white chicken chili.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Now that everything’s prepped, it’s time to combine the ingredients in your crockpot! Start by placing the diced chicken at the bottom. This way, it’ll cook through nicely as the flavors meld. Layer the diced onion and bell pepper on top, followed by the minced garlic. Next, add in the drained white beans, corn, and diced green chiles. Sprinkle the spices—cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika—over the top. These spices are your flavor powerhouses! Finally, pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is submerged. If you’re feeling indulgent, add the heavy cream now or wait until the end for a creamier finish.

Step 3: Cooking Time and Temperature

Set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for about 6-8 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow method really allows all those flavors to develop beautifully, but don’t worry if you have a busy day—both settings will yield delicious results! Just make sure to check that the chicken is cooked through and tender at the end of your cooking time. It should shred easily with a fork, which is a telltale sign that it’s ready!

Step 4: Optional Final Steps

Once your chili has finished cooking, you can enhance it further with a few optional steps. If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can use a fork to shred the chicken right in the pot and stir everything together. For a pop of freshness, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top before serving. It not only adds a burst of color but also brightens up the chili’s flavors. And if you want to elevate your dish even more, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese. Enjoy your comforting bowl of crockpot white chicken chili!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious crockpot white chicken chili. Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

This hearty dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans. It’s a wholesome choice for a cozy meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy schedules!
Hearty Flavor: The combination of spices, tender chicken, and creamy texture creates a comforting bowl of deliciousness that warms you from the inside out.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or beans, making it your own delicious creation every time.
Nutritional Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is not just tasty but also a smart choice for nutritious meals that satisfy your hunger.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a game day gathering, or a cozy night in, this chili is sure to impress and please everyone at the table.

Tips for Success

To ensure your crockpot white chicken chili turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

Choosing the Right Chicken: For the best texture and flavor, opt for high-quality, organic chicken. If you can find it, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are fantastic for added richness. Just remove the skin after cooking to keep it healthy!
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder chili, stick with the spices as listed or omit the chili powder altogether. You can always serve hot sauce on the side for those who want to spice things up!
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the white beans for black beans or kidney beans. You can also add in extra veggies like diced zucchini or spinach. Just be mindful that more veggies may change the cooking time slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Fresh vs. Frozen Veggies: While canned corn works great, fresh corn from the cob adds a wonderful crunch and sweetness. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it first to avoid excess water in your chili.
Creaminess Factor: If you want to amp up the creaminess without the heavy cream, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving. It adds a delightful tang and richness that pairs well with the spicy flavors.
Flavor Development: For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the overall taste by developing those aromatic flavors even more.
Serving and Toppings: Don’t forget the toppings! Fresh cilantro, diced avocados, and a squeeze of lime juice can elevate your chili to another level. Experiment with different cheeses like cotija or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of crockpot white chicken chili. Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of crockpot white chicken chili lies in its versatility. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste buds or to use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creativity flowing:

Different Beans: While white beans are a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try using black beans for a bolder color and flavor, or kidney beans for a slightly different texture. You could even go for a three-bean mix for extra heartiness!
Vegetable Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Add diced carrots, zucchini, or even chopped spinach to the mix. They’ll cook down beautifully and increase the nutritional value of your chili without overpowering the flavor.
Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a different twist, consider adding a tablespoon of taco seasoning or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor that dances on your palate.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your chili to new heights! Try adding fresh thyme or oregano during the last hour of cooking for a fragrant touch. Chopped fresh cilantro sprinkled on top just before serving adds not only flavor but a pop of color!
Creamy Variations: Swap the heavy cream for a can of coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical twist. This will give your chili a creamy consistency and a hint of sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the spices.
Cheesy Goodness: For a cheesy version, stir in some cream cheese or shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will melt into the chili, making it even creamier and more indulgent.
Serving Style: Change up how you serve your chili! Consider layering it over rice or quinoa for a filling meal, or serve it in taco shells for a fun twist. You can also top it with tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! The next time you whip up a batch of crockpot white chicken chili, try one of these variations or create your own. Cooking is all about making it your own, so enjoy the process and let your taste buds guide you!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your crockpot white chicken chili is a breeze, and it’s just as delicious the next day! Once your chili has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top since it may expand slightly if frozen. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date, so you know when it was made!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For the best results, I recommend using the stovetop method. Just pour your chili into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. If the chili is too thick after being refrigerated, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

If you’re in a rush, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate (to avoid splatters), and heat for about 2-3 minutes. Give it a good stir halfway through to ensure it heats evenly. You might want to add a bit of liquid here, too, if it’s thickened up.

Whichever method you choose, just remember to check that it’s heated all the way through before serving. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chili just like the first time around!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your crockpot white chicken chili, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights! Here are some fantastic ideas for what to serve alongside this hearty dish:

Cornbread: A classic pairing! The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread complements the spicy warmth of the chili perfectly. You can serve it warm with a pat of butter melting on top—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling meal, consider serving your chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, or even quinoa for a nutritious twist. This adds a nice base and helps soak up all that delicious broth.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the chili. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette. The crunch and acidity will brighten up your plate!
Tortilla Chips: For a fun, casual twist, serve your chili with a side of crispy tortilla chips. They’re perfect for dipping and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole on top of your chili adds a delightful richness. Plus, it’s a great way to enhance the flavors and make it even more indulgent!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt can help cool down the heat while adding creaminess. It’s a simple yet effective topping that everyone will love!
Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese—like cheddar or Monterey Jack—on top of your chili just before serving. It will melt beautifully and add that extra layer of flavor you won’t want to miss.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a balanced and satisfying meal that suits your taste! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these sides will make your crockpot white chicken chili shine even brighter.

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can check out this article. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of chicken, visit this resource.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.