Introduction
As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chili to comfort the soul. This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is the perfect recipe for those chilly evenings when all you want to do is snuggle up and enjoy a nourishing dish. With tender bits of chicken, creamy white beans, and a delightful blend of spices, this chili not only warms you up but also fills you with hearty goodness.
What’s fantastic about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can set your crockpot in motion and let it do all the work for you. By the time you’re ready to enjoy it, your home will be filled with mouthwatering aromas that make the anticipation all the sweeter!
Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in, this white chicken chili is a versatile dish that everyone will love. So, grab your crockpot, and let’s dive into a recipe that will become a staple in your chilly-weather repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
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- Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the base of your crockpot.
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- Layer the white beans, corn, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green chiles on top of the chicken.
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- Dust the mixture with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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- Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring it’s fully immersed.
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- Secure the lid on the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
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- After the cooking period, gently take out the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks.
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- Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and thoroughly combined.
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- Allow the chili to simmer on low for another 15-20 minutes to achieve a thicker consistency.
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- Serve warm, topped with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side for an added zest.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 8 hours 20 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
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Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast, providing a lean source of protein.
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White Beans: 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans), which add creaminess and heartiness.
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Chicken Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth for a flavorful base without excessive salt.
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Green Chilies: 1 can (4 oz) of diced green chilies, adding a mild heat and depth of flavor.
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Onion: 1 large onion, diced, to enhance the aromatic profile of the chili.
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Garlic: 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, which infuses a rich flavor.
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Corn: 1 cup of frozen or canned corn for sweetness and texture.
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Cumin: 2 teaspoons of ground cumin for that warm, earthy spice characteristic of chili.
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Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried oregano to bring in herbal notes.
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Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime, to add brightness and acidity.
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Salt & Pepper: To taste, ensuring the balance of flavors.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro for garnish, offering a fresh, vibrant touch.
These ingredients combine to create a comforting, savory dish perfect for chilly evenings. Enjoy!
Baking Process
While this recipe primarily uses a slow cooker, you can incorporate an oven-baked component for added texture and flavor. Here’s how to enhance your Crockpot White Chicken Chili experience with some delicious baked toppings.
Baked Topping Options
- Cheesy Tortilla Chips
- Ingredients: Corn tortilla chips, 1 cup shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack).
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Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the chips.
- Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving on top of the chili.
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Cornbread Muffins
- Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup milk, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1 egg.
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, oil, and egg. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving alongside the chili.
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle your slow-cooked white chicken chili into bowls and top with the cheesy tortilla chips or serve with warm cornbread muffins on the side.
- You can also add additional toppings such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or lime wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.
By baking these elements while your chili simmers away in the crockpot, you create a perfect combination of warming comfort food that’s ideal for chilly evenings. Enjoy the cozy texture and harmonious blend of flavors!
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal and make it even cozier on chilly evenings:
- Toppings Galore: Offer a selection of toppings for guests to customize their bowls. Popular choices include:
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor
- Diced avocados or guacamole for creaminess
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt to add a tangy touch
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Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
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Serve with Bread: Pair the chili with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread. A side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices can also be perfect for dipping.
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Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm chili. Consider mixing greens with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of lime dressing.
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Tortilla Chips: Serve the chili with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. They can be used for dipping or as a sprinkle on top of the chili.
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Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes it more filling.
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Create a Chili Bar: If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a chili bar with all the toppings and sides. This interactive approach allows guests to craft their perfect bowl of chili.
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Beverage Pairings: Consider serving the chili with a refreshing beverage. Consider options such as:
- A light lager or pale ale to balance the flavors
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio for a wine pairing
- A zesty limeade or homemade lemonade for a non-alcoholic option
With these serving suggestions, your Crockpot White Chicken Chili is sure to become a comforting favorite for chilly evenings, inviting everyone to cozy up and enjoy a warm meal together!
Conclusion
Crockpot White Chicken Chili is the perfect remedy for chilly evenings, offering a warm and comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. With its creamy texture and zesty spices, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and let it work its magic.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste by adding your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or a sprinkle of cheese. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this chili is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. So, grab your ingredients, fire up that crockpot, and let the delicious aromas fill your home. Don’t forget to share your chili variations and experiences in the comments below! Enjoy your bowl of warmth and comfort!
