The Ultimate Crockpot White Chicken Chili: Easy, Flavorful, and Wholesome
Do you crave a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor but requires minimal effort? Look no further! This incredible White Chicken Chili recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. What makes it so special? It’s the perfect combination of simple prep, a “set-it-and-forget-it” approach thanks to your trusty crockpot, and a symphony of savory, mildly spicy, and deeply satisfying flavors. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices, promising a reward that’s as delicious as it is easy to achieve. Just like our popular 3 bean chili or comforting crockpot chicken and dumplings, this recipe delivers wholesome goodness straight to your table.
Why This Crockpot White Chicken Chili Will Be Your New Go-To
Allow me to elaborate on all the fantastic reasons you’ll fall in love with this Crockpot White Chicken Chili. It truly stands out as a culinary gem for busy individuals and families alike. This isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a lifestyle upgrade for your kitchen.
1. Unbeatable Simplicity with Everyday Ingredients
First and foremost, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward. You won’t find any exotic or hard-to-source items here. We’re talking about simple, everyday ingredients that are readily available at any local grocery store. This means no special trips or frustrating searches – just wholesome, familiar components ready to transform into a spectacular meal. The beauty lies in how these common ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary without any fuss.
2. Prep in a Flash: Only 15 Minutes!
Secondly, the preparation for this recipe is astonishingly quick – a mere 15 minutes! Imagine, in less time than it takes to decide what to watch on TV, you can have all your ingredients prepped and ready for cooking. This minimal hands-on time makes it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when cooking a delicious meal feels like a monumental task. It’s perfect for juggling work, school, and family activities.
3. The Magic of “Throw and Go” Slow Cooking
Thirdly, this is the quintessential “throw and go” crockpot recipe. What does that mean for you? It means absolutely no pre-cooking of ingredients is required before they go into the slow cooker. Forget about browning chicken or sautéing vegetables beforehand. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and let the appliance do all the heavy lifting. This truly hands-off approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, resulting in a deeply satisfying chili with minimal supervision.
4. A Versatile Dish for All Seasons
Fourthly, this white chicken chili isn’t just for chilly autumn evenings. It’s a fantastic year-round recipe! While many associate chili with colder weather, the lighter, zesty profile of white chicken chili makes it enjoyable even during warmer months. It’s hearty enough for winter comfort but fresh enough for a summer gathering, proving that chili truly has a place on your table anytime.
5. Juicy, Fall-Apart Chicken Every Time
A crucial note about the star ingredient: I specifically use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Why thighs? Because they are far more forgiving and flavorful than chicken breasts, especially in a slow cooker. The result is consistently hassle-free, fall-apart tender, and incredibly juicy chicken that perfectly complements the rich chili broth. Say goodbye to dry, stringy chicken – with thighs, you get succulent, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that enhances the entire dish.
6. Health-Conscious Choices: Control Your Sodium
Finally, for those mindful of their dietary intake, this recipe offers flexibility. You can easily opt for reduced-sodium ingredients, such as beans and chicken broth. This puts you in charge of the sodium content in your food, allowing you to create a dish that’s both delicious and tailored to your health preferences without compromising on taste.
If you’re seeking more hassle-free chicken recipes for those busy weeknights, don’t miss my scrumptious Fall Apart Chicken Vegetable Crockpot Soup for ultimate comfort. There’s also my lightly crispy Simple Baked Chicken Leg Drumsticks, which utilizes a hands-free, sheet-pan baking method with no frying involved. And for something unbelievably quick, check out this 10 Minute Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Soup – seriously, 10 minutes and pure yum!
Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious White Chicken Chili
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need for this flavorful slow cooker white chicken chili, along with notes on why each component is important:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: As mentioned, thighs provide the best texture and flavor, becoming incredibly tender and easy to shred.
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth: Forms the delicious base of our chili. Choosing reduced-sodium gives you control over the overall saltiness.
- 2 15-ounce cans reduced-sodium white beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work beautifully. Draining them removes excess liquid. The trick here is to mash one can of beans, which creates a wonderful creamy texture and helps to thicken the chili naturally.
- 1 4.5-oz can diced green chilis: These are essential for that classic chili flavor without adding overwhelming heat. They provide a mild, earthy, and slightly smoky undertone.
- 1/2 yellow onion: Diced, provides a fundamental aromatic base.
- 2 stalks celery: Diced, adds another layer of aromatic flavor and a subtle crunch that softens beautifully during cooking.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: A must-have for depth and pungent flavor in any savory dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: This spice is non-negotiable for authentic chili flavor, offering warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Another classic chili seasoning that brings a robust, slightly smoky, and savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a herbaceous note that complements the other spices perfectly.
- 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, especially if using regular (not reduced-sodium) broth and beans.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A simple yet effective seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 cup frozen corn: Added towards the end of cooking, it provides a pop of sweetness, vibrant color, and delightful texture without becoming mushy. Ensure it’s thawed before adding.
Kitchen tools I use for this recipe: Having the right tools makes cooking even easier and more enjoyable. These are my go-to items for preparing this chili:
- Chef’s knife: For efficient dicing of onions and celery.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for all your chopping needs.
- Can opener: For those cans of beans and green chilis.
- Garlic press: Saves time and effort when mincing garlic cloves.
- Crockpot (slow cooker): The star appliance for this effortless meal!
Beyond the Bowl: More Chili & Slow Cooker Delights
If you’re already craving all things chili as autumn approaches, or simply love the convenience of your slow cooker, be sure to explore more recipes that will warm you from the inside out. Don’t forget to try out this comforting chili mac recipe – it’s a family favorite! You can even elevate its flavor profile by using this household famous chili seasoning blend. And for another incredibly simple yet satisfying slow cooker meal, give our crockpot mac and cheese a try. It’s creamy, cheesy, and requires minimal effort, just like this white chicken chili!
Crockpot White Chicken Chili
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 30 ounce can reduced-sodium white beans 2 15-oz cans, drained, *one can mashed
- 4.5 oz can diced green chilis
- ½ cup yellow onion 1 cup diced
- 2 stalks celery 1 cup diced
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen corn thawed
Before You Begin
Instructions
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In a 3.5 quart crockpot (or larger), carefully combine all the primary ingredients: the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chicken broth, both the whole and mashed white beans, diced green chilis, chopped yellow onion, diced celery, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
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Secure the lid on your crockpot. Set the cooker to high for 3-4 hours if you need it ready sooner, or opt for a low setting for 6-8 hours for a slower, deeper infusion of flavors. Remember, cooking times can vary by crockpot model, so trust your appliance’s performance. The chicken should be very tender and easily shreddable when done.
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Approximately 30 minutes before the end of the cooking cycle, carefully remove the lid. Add the thawed frozen corn to the chili and stir it in. Replace the lid and allow the corn to heat through and meld with the other flavors. At this point, you can also gently remove the chicken thighs and shred them with two forks right in the pot, then stir them back into the chili. This ensures the chicken is perfectly integrated and tender.
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When your delicious white chicken chili is ready to serve, ladle it into bowls. Now comes the fun part – garnish with your favorite toppings! Popular choices include fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños (for an extra kick), a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips for texture. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
Serving Suggestions and Delicious Toppings for White Chicken Chili
While this crockpot white chicken chili is incredibly satisfying on its own, it truly shines when you add your favorite toppings. Think of them as the grand finale to a perfectly cooked meal. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your chili experience:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the chili.
- Creamy Delights: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a healthier twist) adds a wonderful tanginess and creamy texture.
- Cheese, Please! Shredded Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or even a crumbling of cotija cheese can add a salty, savory, and wonderfully melty element.
- Avocado Power: Diced or sliced avocado provides a rich, buttery texture and healthy fats, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Heat Seekers Rejoice: For those who love a bit more kick, add fresh or pickled sliced jalapeños, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Crunch Factor: Crushed tortilla chips, crispy fried onions, or even some homemade cornbread croutons add a delightful textural contrast.
- Citrus Brightness: A wedge of fresh lime for squeezing over the top provides a zesty, bright finish that awakens all the flavors.
- Additional Vegetables: Consider adding a few extra diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), or even some black olives for more depth.
Storing and Reheating Your White Chicken Chili
One of the best things about this easy white chicken chili recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers. In fact, like many chilis and stews, the flavors often deepen and improve overnight!
- Refrigeration: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This chili freezes beautifully! Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: For best results, reheat thawed or refrigerated chili in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems too thick.
- Reheating in the Microwave: For individual servings, place chili in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Variations to Spice Up Your White Chicken Chili
This recipe is a fantastic base, but don’t be afraid to get creative and customize it to your liking! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Creamier Chili: For an even richer, creamier texture, stir in 4-6 ounces of cream cheese (cubed) or 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir until melted and fully incorporated.
- Smoked & Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices for a deeper, smoky flavor. If you like heat, a pinch of chipotle powder or a dash of adobo sauce from a can of chipotles can add a fantastic smoky spice.
- Vegetarian White Bean Chili: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced sweet potatoes for more substance.
- Different Beans: While cannellini or Great Northern beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other white beans like navy beans or even a mix of different types for varied textures.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional content and flavor by adding diced bell peppers (any color), a handful of spinach (stir in at the end until wilted), or even some fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About White Chicken Chili
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender in the slow cooker. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily. The cooking time might need a slight adjustment, usually on the lower end of the recommended time.
Q: Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?
A: No, for this specific “throw and go” recipe, browning the chicken beforehand is not necessary. The slow cooking process will cook the chicken thoroughly and allow it to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Q: How can I make this white chicken chili spicier?
A: To increase the heat, you have several options: add an extra can of diced green chilis, include a finely minced jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat, leave them for more), stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, or serve with a generous drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Q: Can I make this chili on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for the stovetop: Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in a large pot with a little olive oil until softened. Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink. Stir in the spices, then add the chicken broth, whole and mashed beans, and diced green chilis. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, covered, for 30-45 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir in the corn for the last 10 minutes. This will be a quicker process, but still incredibly flavorful.
Q: My chili seems too thin. How can I thicken it?
A: Mashing one can of beans already helps a lot. If you want it thicker, you can create a slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water. Stir this mixture into the simmering chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking and allow it to thicken. Another option is to mash a few more spoonfuls of the whole beans against the side of the pot.
Q: Is this chili freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, this chili is excellent for freezing! Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How long does this white chicken chili last in the refrigerator?
A: Stored properly in an airtight container, your leftover chili will be delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to making, serving, and enjoying the most effortless and delicious Crockpot White Chicken Chili. With its simple ingredients, minimal prep, and hands-off cooking, this recipe truly embodies the joy of stress-free cooking and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this chili is guaranteed to deliver comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try tonight! Your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings and make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
This post was originally published on this blog on Aug 16, 2017.