There’s just something so comforting about a slow-cooked meal, isn’t there? The way the aroma fills your kitchen and wraps around you like a warm hug is pure magic. Now, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorites: Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac. It’s this amazing fusion of hearty chili and pasta that just hits the spot every single time! I stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something simple yet satisfying. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver! You toss everything in the crockpot, let it work its magic, and before you know it, you’ve got a creamy, delicious dish ready to enjoy. It’s practical, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding the whole family. You’ll definitely want to give this one a try!
Ingredients for Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish. Each ingredient adds its own special touch, so let’s make sure we get everything just right!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
- 1 can white beans, drained (these add a lovely creaminess)
- 1 can corn, drained (sweet corn brings a nice pop of flavor)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain this one; those juices are gold!)
- 1 onion, chopped (the aroma of onion cooking is unbeatable!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (garlic makes everything better, right?)
- 2 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium if you want to control the salt)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust this if you like it spicier!)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (adds that warm, earthy flavor)
- 2 cups macaroni pasta (I prefer elbow macaroni, but you can use any small pasta)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (because who doesn’t love melty cheese?)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go!)
How to Prepare Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this deliciousness! You’re going to love how easy this is. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm bowl of comfort in no time.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First things first, grab your trusty crockpot! Start by adding the shredded chicken, drained white beans, drained corn, and the canned diced tomatoes with their juices (seriously, don’t skip that!). Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, followed by the chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together—it’s like a little party in there!
Step 2: Cooking Time
Now, it’s time to let the magic happen. Cover your crockpot and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it simmer, the more those flavors will develop, which is what we want! Just make sure to keep an eye on it if you’re cooking on high; you want everything to be perfectly tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Adding Pasta and Cheese
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s pasta time! Stir in those 2 cups of macaroni pasta and cover again. This allows the pasta to cook right in the chili, soaking up all those yummy flavors. Finally, just before serving, sprinkle in that shredded cheddar cheese and give it a good stir until it’s beautifully melty. Trust me, this step is where the magic really happens!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder—easy cleanup means more time to relax!
- Hearty and filling, this dish satisfies even the hungriest of appetites.
- The flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, giving you that slow-cooked taste without the fuss.
- It’s family-friendly and perfect for meal prep—leftovers taste even better!
- Customizable! You can adjust spices and add your favorite veggies.
- Comfort in a bowl, ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition in this hearty bowl of deliciousness! Here’s a quick rundown of the typical values you can expect per serving. Keep in mind, these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This dish packs a protein punch thanks to the chicken and beans, while remaining comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a filling meal that warms you up from the inside out!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to dive into making this delicious Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac, here are some tips to ensure it turns out just perfect every time!
- Adjust the Spice: If you like things a little spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños! For a milder dish, you can reduce the chili powder.
- Substitutions: No white beans on hand? Black beans or kidney beans work just as well! You can also swap the corn for diced bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of lime juice just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. It really brightens everything up!
- Cooking Time: Keep in mind that every slow cooker can vary slightly. If you’re using a different model, check for doneness a bit earlier than the suggested times. You want everything to be tender, but not mushy!
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just think of the melty goodness!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting dish. Happy cooking!
Common Questions About Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac
I’ve had a few questions pop up about this delicious dish, so let’s tackle them together! I want to make sure you feel fully equipped to whip up this comforting meal.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re starting with fresh chicken, just chop it into chunks and add it to the crockpot at the beginning. It will cook down beautifully during the slow cooking process—just make sure you increase the cooking time to about 7-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.
What can I substitute for the white beans?
If white beans aren’t your thing, no problem! You can easily swap them out for black beans or chickpeas. Both options will still give you that hearty texture and protein boost. Just remember to drain and rinse them if they’re canned!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any extra chili mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Can I freeze Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac?
You bet! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What do I serve with this dish?
This chili mac is super filling on its own, but if you want to add some sides, a fresh green salad or some warm crusty bread pairs perfectly. You could even throw together some avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just let your Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, and trust me, it’s even more flavorful the next day!
If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Easy peasy!
Share Your Experience
I’d love to hear how your Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac turns out! Have you made any fun adjustments or added your favorite ingredients? Maybe you swapped beans or tried a different cheese? Whatever it is, share it in the comments below! Your variations could inspire someone else to try something new!
If you enjoyed the recipe, please let me know by giving it a rating! I thrive on your feedback, and it keeps me motivated to share more delicious recipes with you. Let’s create a little community of home cooks who love to experiment and enjoy good food together. Can’t wait to read your thoughts!
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Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting dish that combines chili and pasta in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- 30 minutes before serving, add macaroni pasta to the crockpot.
- Stir in cheddar cheese just before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust spices according to your taste.
- You can add more vegetables if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Crockpot White Chicken Chili Mac, chili recipe, pasta recipe, slow cooker meals