Name: Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning chicken)

There's nothing better than coming home to the tantalizing aroma of Crockpot White Chicken Chili simmering away. This hearty, creamy chili is packed with tender chicken, beans, and just the right kick of spice, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or chilly weekends.

I first discovered this gem of a recipe during a hectic holiday season. With a house full of guests and little time to spare, my slow cooker came to the rescue, transforming simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dinner that practically made itself.

Let’s dive into the delicious details of this foolproof dish!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to recipe for cozy nights. This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a game-changer for anyone who loves easy, flavorful meals.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, freeing you up to tackle the day.

It’s also a budget-friendly option that stretches to feed the whole family. Using pantry staples like beans and canned green chiles keeps the cost low without skimping on flavor.

Not to mention, the creamy, savory base is a hit with even the pickiest eaters. You can customize the spice level to suit your crowd, making it a versatile recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or prepping meals for the week, this chili is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients Notes

This Crockpot White Chicken Chili relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its rich, layered flavors.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. They become tender and shred easily after slow cooking.
White Beans: Great Northern beans or cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor. Feel free to use a mix if you have them on hand.
Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles add a mild heat and tangy flavor that sets this chili apart.
Cream Cheese: This is the secret to the chili’s luscious, creamy base. For a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese.
Chicken Broth: Choose a good-quality broth to enhance the overall flavor. Low-sodium is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.
Spices: A blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder creates a warm, smoky flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

No fancy equipment needed—just a trusty crockpot and a fork to shred the chicken!

How To Make This Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Creating this Crockpot White Chicken Chili couldn’t be easier. Follow these steps for a foolproof, flavor-packed meal:

Layer the Ingredients: Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the beans, green chiles, minced garlic, and seasonings on top. Pour in the chicken broth to cover everything.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The long, slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Cream Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until it melts and blends into the broth, creating a creamy base for the chili.
Taste and Adjust: Give the chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more spices, salt, or even a splash of lime juice for extra brightness.

This chili takes about 10 minutes of prep and rewards you with hours of irresistible aroma and flavor.

Storage Options

This Crockpot White Chicken Chili stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Pro tip: Freeze individual portions for a quick grab-and-go lunch!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to customize your Crockpot White Chicken Chili:

Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some frozen corn or chopped bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Protein Swap: Use turkey or pork instead of chicken, or try a vegetarian version with extra beans and vegetable broth.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or blend soaked cashews for a creamy texture.
Toppings Galore: Top your chili with shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, or tortilla strips for a finishing touch.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this chili is incredibly forgiving!

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this Crockpot White Chicken Chili is sure to win a spot in your recipe rotation. Warm, creamy, and endlessly customizable, it’s everything you need for a satisfying meal with minimal effort.