White chicken chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty meal. This easy slow cooker recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade chili with minimal effort. Made with tender chicken, white beans, flavorful spices, and a creamy broth, this white chicken chili is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started on this delicious and comforting dish!
Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the beans and chilies: Add the drained and rinsed white beans and the can of diced green chilies on top of the chicken.
- Add the onion and garlic: Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the beans and chilies.
- Season the chili: Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Pour in the chicken broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is well submerged.
- Cook the chili: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the corn and sour cream: Stir in the frozen corn kernels and sour cream until well combined. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low, or until the chili is heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chili.
About the Main Ingredients
Each ingredient in this white chicken chili adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Chicken breasts: Chicken breasts provide lean protein and a hearty texture to the chili. Slow cooking the chicken helps it become tender and easy to shred.
White beans: White beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, add creaminess and substance to the chili. They also absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
Diced green chilies: Diced green chilies add a mild heat and a subtle flavor to the chili. They can be adjusted to taste depending on your preference for spiciness.
Onion and garlic: Onion and garlic provide a savory base and add depth of flavor to the chili.
Spices: Ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (optional) create a warm and aromatic blend of spices that give the chili its signature flavor.
Chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the liquid base of the chili, infusing it with flavor and helping to cook the chicken and beans.
Corn: Frozen corn kernels add a sweet crunch to the chili, balancing the savory flavors.
Sour cream: Sour cream adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor to the chili, rounding out the dish.
Garnishes: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of freshness and color to the chili, while lime wedges provide a bright citrusy finish.
This Easy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a flavorful homemade chili that will warm you from the inside out. Serve it with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado, or tortilla strips, for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.