Save to Pinterest A comforting, hearty chili featuring tender chicken, creamy white beans, earthy black beans, and a medley of southwestern spices, all slow-cooked to perfection.
The first time I made this white chicken chili in my slow cooker, everyone eagerly lined up for second helpings & one bowl was never enough! Slow cooking fills the house with a warm, savory aroma while the creamy finish makes each bite comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 1 ½ lbs (680 g)
- White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern): 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Black Beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Jalapeno: 1 medium, seeded and chopped (optional for heat)
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 3 cups (720 ml)
- Diced Green Chilies: 1 (4 oz / 113 g) can
- Ground Cumin: 1 ½ tsp
- Ground Coriander: 1 tsp
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp
- Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp
- Chili Powder: ½ tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp
- Cream Cheese: 4 oz (115 g), cubed and softened
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Optional, for garnish
- Sliced Green Onions: Optional, for garnish
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar Cheese: Optional, for garnish
- Lime Wedges: Optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients:
- Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Beans & Vegetables:
- Add white beans, black beans, onion, jalapeno, bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, coriander, oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
- Shred Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Make Creamy:
- Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and the chili is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, cheese, and lime wedges as desired.
Save to Pinterest Whenever I prepare this chili for family get-togethers, it's always the first dish to disappear & everyone asks for the recipe. Even picky eaters happily dig in!
Required Tools
Slow cooker, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, spoons, large spoon, and forks for shredding chicken are all you'll need.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, heavy cream, optional cheese/yogurt). Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free chicken broth. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 380, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 29 g, Protein: 33 g (per serving).
Save to Pinterest This slow cooker white chicken chili is the ultimate comfort food & perfect for easy gatherings. Enjoy leftovers for busy weeknights!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, both boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, with thighs providing a slightly richer flavor.
- → How long should I cook this in a slow cooker?
Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is very tender.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Yes, include jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level.
- → Is it possible to lighten the creamy finish?
Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese to achieve a lighter texture while maintaining creaminess.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread to complement the hearty flavors and make a complete meal.
- → Can leftovers be frozen?
This chili freezes well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.