Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple, one-pot slow cooker recipe with minimal prep.
• Comforting and hearty without being too heavy.
• Packed with protein and flavor from chicken and beans.
• Perfect for meal prep and freezes well.
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 3 breasts)
4 cups low-sodium chicken stock (32 ounces)
2 (15-ounce) cans reduced-sodium white beans (white kidney beans, cannellini, or Great Northern beans), rinsed and drained
2 (4.5-ounce) cans diced green chiles
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion (or 1/2 large), finely diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Fresh lime wedges

For serving: diced jalapeno, diced avocado, nonfat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the chicken stock, beans, diced green chiles, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot. Stir well.
5. Add the chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice into the chili. Stir to combine.
6. Serve hot with toppings such as diced jalapeno, avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: 6–8 hours (depending on setting)

Variations

• Add corn for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Make it creamier by stirring in cream cheese or half-and-half before serving.
• For extra heat, add diced jalapenos or additional cayenne pepper.
• Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Use vegetable stock and omit chicken for a vegetarian version (add more beans for protein).

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 1–2 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

How do I make the chili thicker?

Mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher before serving, or reduce the chicken stock by 1 cup.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and provide extra flavor and juiciness.

Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild heat from the green chiles and cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the spice level to taste.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes, simmer everything in a large pot for 30–40 minutes, then shred the chicken and stir back in.

What type of beans work best?

Cannellini, Great Northern, or white kidney beans all work well in this recipe.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Cooking on low heat and shredding the chicken only at the end helps keep it tender.

Can I make this chili dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the sour cream and cheese toppings, or use dairy-free alternatives.

What toppings go best with white chicken chili?

Avocado, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced jalapenos, and fresh cilantro all pair perfectly.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough, and adjust the seasonings to taste.

Conclusion

Crockpot white chicken chili is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and warm spices, it’s a versatile dish that’s easy to adapt and always satisfying. Serve it with fresh toppings and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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