There’s just something about a warm bowl of *Creamy White Chicken Chili* that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that’s not only incredibly easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor? This classic slow cooker recipe is a staple in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. My family can’t get enough of it, and honestly, it’s become our go-to for gatherings, too! The creamy texture combined with the zing of green chilies makes every spoonful a delight. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation!
Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Chili (classic slow cooker)
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These will be the stars of your chili, tender and perfect for shredding.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed – They add a lovely creaminess and a bit of protein.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained – For a touch of sweetness and color!
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies – This brings a nice kick; you can adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 onion, diced – Adds a great base flavor that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 4 cups chicken broth – The savory liquid that ties it all together.
- 1 tsp cumin – A warm spice that enhances the chili’s flavor.
- 1 tsp oregano – For that hint of herbal freshness.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes it *creamy* and decadent!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish – A sprinkle on top adds a pop of freshness that elevates the dish.
How to Prepare Creamy White Chicken Chili (classic slow cooker)
Getting this *Creamy White Chicken Chili* ready is as simple as it gets! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish simmering away in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts, white beans, corn, green chilies, diced onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth into your slow cooker. It’s like a big, happy family all coming together!
- Sprinkle in the cumin and oregano, then add some salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Just let it do its thing while you go about your day!
- When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. This step is so satisfying!
- Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through for about 10 minutes.
- Finally, serve your chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for that extra touch!
Tips for Success
- Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste! If you like it spicier, toss in some jalapeños or extra green chilies.
- I love serving this chili with crunchy tortilla chips on the side. They add a fun texture!
- Leftovers can be frozen, so make a big batch and enjoy it later. Just let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you!
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and zesty green chilies creates a deliciously comforting bowl of goodness.
- Family Favorite: It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste. Add more heat or fresh veggies for a personal touch!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze portions for a quick meal later on. Just reheat and enjoy that comforting flavor again!
Nutritional Information for Creamy White Chicken Chili
This *Creamy White Chicken Chili* is not only delicious but also packed with great nutrition! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional content per serving, which is about 1 cup. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This chili is a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making it a filling meal perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the comforting flavors while knowing you’re nourishing your body, too!
FAQ About Creamy White Chicken Chili (classic slow cooker)
Got questions about this *Creamy White Chicken Chili*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers:
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can throw frozen chicken straight into the slow cooker. Just keep in mind that it might take a little longer to cook through, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this chili spicy?
Of course! If you like your chili with a kick, add some diced jalapeños or extra diced green chilies. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to taste!
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream substitute. Just know that it might change the creamy texture a bit.
How do I store leftovers?
Let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for later—just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating!
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili is fantastic on its own, but I love to serve it with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing and reheating your *Creamy White Chicken Chili* is super easy, and I’ve got some tips to make sure it stays just as delicious as the day you made it!
First off, if you have any leftovers (which is a win in my book!), let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your chili watery. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Now, if you want to enjoy it later on, this chili freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, making sure to leave some space at the top since it will expand as it freezes. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know when to use them!
When you’re ready to eat your delicious chili again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave—just cover it loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your comforting chili anytime you crave it. Yum!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy White Chicken Chili (classic slow cooker)
This *Creamy White Chicken Chili* is a superstar on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that make this comforting dish even more delightful:
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are a must! Not only do they add a fun texture, but they also make the perfect vehicle for scooping up that creamy chili.
- Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is the ultimate companion. The slight sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory chili beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and avocado!
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices on top of your chili take it to the next level! They add a lovely richness that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool, creamy contrast. Plus, it’s a great way to tone down the heat if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, melted on top, makes every bowl even more indulgent and delicious!
With these serving suggestions, you can create a full and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Enjoy every spoonful!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy white chicken chili recipe or explore slow cooker chili recipes for more comforting options!
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Creamy White Chicken Chili: 5 Ways to Cozy Up Your Dinner
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting creamy white chicken chili made in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken, beans, corn, green chilies, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cumin, and oregano in the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred it.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through.
- Serve garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- This chili can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Creamy White Chicken Chili, Slow Cooker Chili, Chicken Chili Recipe