White Chicken Chili Crockpot
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This delicious White Chicken Chili is a comforting dish, perfect for busy days when you want a meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
White Chicken Chili is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal. This crockpot version allows for hands-off cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting with a hint of spice
- Simple ingredients come together for maximum flavor
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
The Comfort of White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is more than just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl. The creamy texture combined with the subtle spice creates a dish that warms the soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings or those long, busy days. Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of flavors, from the tender chicken to the hearty beans, ensuring that every bite satisfies.
This chili is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or served alongside your favorite cornbread or tortilla chips. Its robust flavor profile makes it a great choice for gatherings, as it appeals to a wide range of palates. Plus, with the ease of preparation, it becomes a go-to recipe for families and friends alike.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Using a crockpot for this White Chicken Chili not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors. Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a rich and savory dish that tastes like it has been simmering all day. Simply set it and forget it, freeing you up to tackle other tasks or relax.
Crockpot meals are perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. You can prepare everything in the morning, and by the time you return home, a delicious, home-cooked meal awaits. This convenience is especially valuable for those juggling work, family, and other commitments.
Customizing Your Chili
One of the best aspects of this White Chicken Chili recipe is its adaptability. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a mix of additional beans or vegetables. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences without losing the essence of the dish.
You can also experiment with toppings and sides. Consider adding avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist. Pairing the chili with a side of rice or a green salad can elevate the meal further, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Mix all ingredients well in your crockpot for a delightful meal.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the white beans and set aside.
Combine in the Crockpot
In the crockpot, add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, beans, corn, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and all spices. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, if using.
Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty chili!
Serve with tortilla chips or bread for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover White Chicken Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's an excellent option for meal prep, as the flavors meld even more after a day in the fridge. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chili. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to portion it out into freezer-safe containers, allowing for easy meal options later on. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and enjoy a taste of home-cooked goodness anytime.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of White Chicken Chili, consider serving it with a side of cornbread. The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the chili, creating a satisfying meal. Alternatively, tortilla chips can add a delightful crunch and are great for dipping right into the chili.
For beverages, a light beer or a crisp white wine can enhance your dining experience. The refreshing qualities of these drinks help balance the hearty and creamy chili, making for a well-rounded meal that pleases the palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.
→ Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make it on the stovetop by simmering all ingredients in a pot for about 30-40 minutes.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.
White Chicken Chili Crockpot
This delicious White Chicken Chili is a comforting dish, perfect for busy days when you want a meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chili
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the white beans and set aside.
In the crockpot, add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, beans, corn, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and all spices. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, if using.
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty chili!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g