white chicken chilli recipe crock pot
The Best white chicken chilli recipe crock pot
Oh, this White Chicken Chili in the crock pot is one of those recipes that just feels like homeāsimple, comforting, and so easy to make that itās practically foolproof. Iāve been making it for years, and itās always a hit, whether weāre serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a little something extra special for a game night or family get-together.
The creamy, tangy flavor is perfect for anyone who loves a little kick without being too heavy, and the fact that itās made in one pot means thereās no scrubbing or last-minute stress.
My kids love it because itās filling but not too heavy, and itās got all the right texturesācreamy, chunky, and just a little spicy if you like it that way. Plus, itās something you can prep ahead and reheat, so itās great for meal prep too.
Click here for: white chicken chili slow cooker recipe
I also love how this recipe is actually pretty healthy for what it is. Itās packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the beans and veggies, and healthy fats from the avocado or cheese if you add it.
Itās not too rich, so itās a good way to get a balanced meal without feeling like youāve overdone it. The spices and herbs give it a nice boost of flavor without needing a lot of extra oil or butter, which makes it a lighter option than some other chili recipes.
And honestly, thereās something about the way the flavors meld together in the slow cooker that just makes it taste even better than it would if you made it on the stovetop. Itās that kind of recipe that makes you want to make it again and again, and itās always a crowd-pleaser.

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
A creamy, comforting white chicken chili packed with tender chicken, black beans, and a blend of mild spices. Perfect for a cozy meal!
š„Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Diced avocado
- Hot sauce
šØāš³Directions
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1 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to the slow cooker.
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2 In a large bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, white beans, black beans, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well.
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3 Add diced onion and minced garlic to the bowl with the chili ingredients. Mix thoroughly.
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4 Pour the chili mixture into the slow cooker. Place chicken thighs on top, ensuring they are covered by the liquid. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
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5 Once cooking is complete, shred the chicken using two forks or a fork. Stir the shredded chicken back into the chili. If the chili is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
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6 Remove the slow cooker from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
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7 Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced avocado, or hot sauce.
š§Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet or pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili Works
This White Chicken Chili in the crock pot is a perfect go-to for any gathering because itās hearty, flavorful, and makes a crowd-pleaser without needing last-minute stress. Whether youāre hosting a casual family dinner or a potluck, this recipe fills the house with warmth and serves a big batch easilyājust toss everything in, let it slow-cook, and youāve got a dish thatās always a hit with minimal effort. Plus, itās great for meal prep because the flavors deepen over time, so leftovers taste even better the next day.
Click here for: authentic greek chicken souvlaki recipe
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
What is the best way to prepare the ingredients for the White Chicken Chili in the crock pot to ensure even cooking?
To ensure even cooking, start by dicing the onions, bell peppers, and potatoes into uniform, small pieces. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them in the bottom of the crock pot. In a bowl, combine the broth, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, then stir gently to distribute the spices evenly. Finally, add the shredded cheese and let it melt slowly over low heat.
How long should I cook the White Chicken Chili in the slow cooker, and what temperature should I set it?
For a well-cooked White Chicken Chili, set your crock pot to āLowā for 6-7 hours or āHighā for 3-4 hours, depending on your preferred consistency. If youāre using a 6-quart crock pot, ensure thereās enough liquid to cover the ingredients, but avoid overfilling. Check occasionally to see if the chili needs more liquid to prevent it from drying out.
Can I make the White Chicken Chili ahead of time and still have it taste fresh and delicious?
Yes! You can prepare the White Chicken Chili in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to help it thicken slightly. For the best texture, stir in a little shredded cheese before serving. If you want to keep it creamy, you can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
What substitutions can I make if I donāt have certain ingredients like cream of chicken soup or milk?
If you donāt have cream of chicken soup, you can replace it with a mix of ½ cup evaporated milk and ½ cup chicken broth, or simply use 1 cup of chicken broth and ¼ cup cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water (whisked together and added at the end). For milk, you can use almond milk, coconut milk (light), or even a splash of heavy cream. If youāre avoiding dairy, a dairy-free cream substitute like cashew cream works well.
Why does my White Chicken Chili turn out too runny or too thick, and how can I fix it?
If your chili is too runny, simmer it uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. For a thicker texture, stir in 1-2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water, or add 1-2 tbsp cornmeal. If itās too thick, add ½ cup of chicken broth or water, simmering gently until it reaches your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and spices as needed.
