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Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

creamy slow cooker white chicken chili recipe - featured image

A comforting and creamy white chicken chili made easy in the slow cooker, featuring tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and warm spices. Perfect for cozy dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed (great northern or cannellini)
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, mild or medium heat
  • 3 cups chicken broth (homemade or low sodium)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (can substitute cottage cheese or plant-based cream cheese)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white)
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Chop one medium onion finely and mince three large garlic cloves. Drain and rinse two cans of white beans and one can of diced green chilies. Set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic. (This step can be skipped if in a rush.)
  3. Place 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Evenly spread the drained white beans and diced green chilies over the chicken.
  5. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently without mixing too much to keep chicken intact.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  7. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
  8. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and stir gently until melted and fully incorporated for a creamy texture.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Add a splash of broth or water if chili is too thick.
  10. Serve warm, garnished with optional toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, or lime wedges.

Notes

Sautéing onions and garlic enhances flavor but can be skipped for convenience. Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Add cream cheese at the end to avoid curdling. For thicker chili, reduce broth or remove lid in last 30 minutes. Can be adapted for stovetop or Instant Pot. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, white chicken chili, creamy chili, comfort food, easy dinner, slow cooker chili, white beans, chicken recipe