There’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm bowl of creamy white chicken chili simmering in the slow cooker. This recipe is cozy, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or a comforting family dinner. Using simple pantry ingredients and just a few minutes of prep, the crockpot does all the hard work while you enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / Soup | 10 mins | 4–6 hrs (slow cooker) | 6 servings | ~320 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 (14 oz) can chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, avocado slices, lime wedges
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the crockpot: Place chicken breasts, onion, garlic, beans, corn, green chiles, and chicken broth into your slow cooker.
- Season it up: Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
- Make it creamy: Stir in cream cheese and Monterey Jack until melted and smooth.
- Simmer & serve: Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the flavors meld, then serve with your favorite toppings.
Tip: For a slightly thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Spice control: Add extra green chiles or a pinch of cayenne for heat—or keep it mild by using only a small can of chiles.
- Creaminess: For extra rich texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time, or swap in ground turkey for a leaner version.
- Dairy-light: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or light cream cheese for a healthier twist.
- Extra veggies: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with warm cornbread, garlic bread, or fluffy dinner rolls.
- Top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, or sliced avocado.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This easy white chicken chili is comfort in a bowl—creamy, flavorful, and made simple thanks to the crockpot. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Gather your loved ones, ladle it up, and enjoy every warm, hearty bite.