If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate cozy, comforting meal, let me introduce you to Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Chili. This dish is a dream come true: creamy, hearty, and full of savory flavors, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a warm bowl in hand. Plus, it practically cooks itself! Simply throw everything in the slow cooker, let the magic happen, and soon you’ll have a rich, creamy chili that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. You’ll want to make this again and again—trust me, it’s that good!
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Chili
Here’s why this chili will quickly become your new favorite:
Hands-Off Cooking:
Set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day. Come home to a bowl of creamy chicken chili ready to devour.
Rich and Creamy:
The combination of chicken, beans, and cream cheese creates a chili that’s smooth, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s not your average chili—this one’s got a little extra indulgence!
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether it’s a chilly winter night, a game-day feast, or a casual family dinner, this chili fits every occasion. Serve it up at a gathering, or simply enjoy it on your own!
Versatile:
This chili is great on its own, but you can also customize it with your favorite toppings and sides. Want a bit of crunch? Add tortilla chips! Prefer a little heat? Top it with some jalapeños. The possibilities are endless.
Budget-Friendly:
Made with affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients, this creamy chicken chili is a satisfying dish that won’t break the bank.
Ingredients in Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Chili
The ingredients for this dish come together effortlessly, making it a go-to recipe for busy days. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Breast:
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect for this recipe. It cooks up tender and shreds beautifully, making it the ideal base for a chili.
White Beans:
White beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, add a nice creamy texture and help thicken the chili.
Corn:
Sweet corn adds a burst of color and sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
Green Chilies:
These add a mild, tangy heat that’s not overwhelming—just enough to give the chili a little kick.
Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese is the key to making this chili extra creamy and rich. It melts beautifully into the broth, creating a velvety texture.
Chicken Broth:
Chicken broth is essential for the base of this chili, giving it a deep, savory flavor that’s the perfect backdrop for all the ingredients.
Onion and Garlic:
Onions and garlic are a must for adding depth and flavor to the chili. They sauté and blend perfectly with the other ingredients.
Seasonings:
A blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt and pepper bring the perfect level of spice and warmth to the dish.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make this creamy chicken chili:
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil over medium heat until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, white beans, corn, green chilies, chicken broth, and spices. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Cook the Chili:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Add Cream Cheese:
Cut the cream cheese into chunks and add it to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the chili, making it creamy and rich.
Final Stir:
Give everything a good final stir, taste for seasoning, and adjust with more salt or spices as needed.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the creamy chicken chili into bowls, and enjoy with your favorite toppings—cheese, cilantro, sour cream, or tortilla chips all work wonderfully.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 32g
Vitamin D: 4%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 15%
Potassium: 900mg
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3-4 hours 15 minutes (high)
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Chili
This creamy chicken chili is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even better:
Toppings Galore:
Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños for a little kick. Crushed tortilla chips also add a nice crunch!
Serve with Bread:
A warm slice of cornbread or a fresh baguette is the perfect accompaniment to this chili. It’s great for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
Salad on the Side:
Pair with a simple salad for some freshness to balance out the richness of the chili. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be perfect.
Over Rice:
Serve the chili over a bed of rice for a filling and hearty meal. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a twist.
Additional Tips
Make It Ahead:
This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight!
Add More Veggies:
If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, try adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. They’ll cook right along with the other ingredients.
Spice It Up:
If you prefer a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
Leftovers:
Leftovers keep really well! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Make It Vegetarian:
For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken for more beans (like black beans or kidney beans) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra spices for flavor!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A1: Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just make sure to add an extra hour of cooking time if you’re using frozen chicken.
Q2: Can I skip the cream cheese?
A2: If you prefer a lighter chili, you can skip the cream cheese, but it will be less creamy. You could substitute with a little sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like.
Q3: Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?
A3: While fresh chicken is recommended, you can use canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. Just add it in during the last hour of cooking so it doesn’t overcook.
Q4: Can I add more beans?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add any beans you like—black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans all work great in this chili.
Q5: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
A5: Yes! You can make this chili on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q7: Can I freeze this chili?
A7: Yes, you can freeze this chili for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q8: How do I make this chili spicier?
A8: Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to kick up the heat level. Adjust to your taste!
Q9: Can I add cheese to the chili while it’s cooking?
A9: It’s best to add the cheese as a topping after the chili is cooked, as it can melt into the sauce and change the texture if added too early.
Q10: Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts?
A10: Yes, ground chicken will work great! You can brown it first before adding it to the slow cooker, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Chili is the ultimate cozy meal that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, hearty chili that’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—whether for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the comforting flavors in every bite!