Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili: An Easy, Comforting Recipe for All Occasions
A one-pot dinner that delivers savory depth with minimal prep for stress-free meals.
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili: Ultimate Comfort Made Easy
Sink into warmth and flavor with this slow cooker white chicken chili, a dish designed for maximum comfort and minimal effort. Tender chicken, creamy beans, sweet corn, and a blend of aromatic spices unite in a hearty bowl that’s sure to please any crowd or family table. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or looking for a game day centerpiece, this recipe brings ease and satisfaction to every serving.
Why Choose White Chicken Chili for Dinner?
White chicken chili is a standout among chili recipes because it embraces bright flavors and a creamy texture rather than relying on tomato-based broth. Here’s why this dish should be your go-to:
- Hands-off preparation: Just add all ingredients to your slow cooker and walk away.
- Feeds a crowd: Yields multiple servings, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Serve with a spread of toppings so everyone gets their favorite flavor profile.
- Hearty but balanced: Protein, vegetables, fiber, and spice in every spoonful.
- Easy cleanup: One-pot meal leaves little mess behind.
What Is White Chicken Chili?
Unlike classic beef and tomato chilis, white chicken chili features mild white beans, sweet corn, creamy dairy, and chicken, all highlighted by green chiles, cumin, coriander, and other vibrant spices. The result is a chili with a distinctly Southwestern flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy lighter, yet still immensely satisfying, comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into a classic slow cooker white chicken chili. For substitutions and tips, see the notes below.
- Chicken breasts: Typically about 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless. Chicken thighs can substitute for a richer flavor.
- Seasonings: Ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper.
- White beans: Two cans of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed.
- Green chiles: Two cans, chopped.
- Garlic: Finely minced.
- Chicken broth: Two cups.
- Heavy cream: For creaminess.
- Masa harina: Corn flour that thickens the chili and adds a subtle tortilla flavor.
- Frozen corn: One bag, sweet corn preferred.
- Toppings: Grated Monterey Jack cheese, chopped avocado, lime wedges.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 1.5 lbs (3 breasts) | Use thighs for more depth of flavor |
| Ground cumin | 1 Tbsp | Essential for warmth |
| Ground coriander | 1 Tbsp | Earthy undertones |
| Dried oregano | 2 tsp | Herbal accent |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp | Adds color and gentle sweetness |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/2 tsp | Optional for heat |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground recommended |
| Cannellini beans | 2 cans (15 oz each) | Drained and rinsed |
| Green chiles | 2 cans (4 oz each) | Chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Low sodium |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | For richness |
| Masa harina | 2 Tbsp | Or cornmeal if needed |
| Frozen corn | 10 oz bag | Sweet corn preferred |
| Monterey Jack cheese | For topping | Grated |
| Avocado | For topping | Chopped |
| Lime wedges | For serving | Bright finish |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken. - Combine the Core Ingredients:
Add the cannellini beans, chopped green chiles, minced garlic, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine. - Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW. Cook for 7–8 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and easily shreds with a fork. - Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts to a bowl and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks. - Add Cream and Masa:
In a small bowl, combine heavy cream and masa harina, stirring until smooth. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with the masa mixture and frozen corn. - Final Simmer:
Cover and cook the chili for an additional 30 minutes, until thickened and the corn is warmed through. - Serve and Garnish:
Ladle chili into bowls. Top with grated Monterey Jack cheese, chopped avocado, and serve with lime wedges.
What Is Masa Harina? (And Why Add It?)
Masa harina is a fine corn flour traditionally used for making homemade tortillas. In this chili, it serves as a natural thickener that lends gentle corn undertones and a velvety texture. If you don’t have masa harina on hand, cornmeal can serve as a substitute, although you’ll notice a coarser finish.
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Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Chicken thighs: Substitute for breasts to achieve a richer, juicier chili. Aim for about 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless.
- Beans: Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even pinto beans are suitable alternatives.
- Dairy: Swap heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Heat level: Adjust crushed red pepper flakes or include diced jalapenos to dial up the spiciness.
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with extra beans and use vegetable broth.
Slow Cooker Tips for White Chicken Chili Success
- Layering: Place chicken at the bottom for even cooking and best shredding texture.
- Don’t skip stirring: Mix the beans, broth, and seasonings well to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Slow cooking yields tenderness: Low heat over several hours makes the chicken succulent and easy to shred.
- Add dairy and masa near the end: Prevents curdling and allows cream to blend smoothly.
- Taste and adjust: Sample before serving and add salt, pepper, or lime juice to finish.
Serving Ideas and Toppings
One of the greatest strengths of white chicken chili is how well it pairs with a variety of finishing touches. Create a chili bar for parties or just let family members choose their favorites. Here are popular options:
- Grated Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
- Chopped avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Pico de gallo or fresh salsa
Meal Planning and Storage
- Make ahead: White chicken chili stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Flavors deepen with time.
- Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth or milk if the chili thickens too much in storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes white chicken chili different from traditional chili?
White chicken chili relies on chicken, white beans, green chiles, and creamy broth instead of beef and tomatoes. Its unique flavor comes from cumin, coriander, and dairy for a smooth, mellow taste profile.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes. Add shredded rotisserie chicken in the last hour of cooking and reduce the initial slow cooker time, since the chicken is already cooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Nearly! Masa harina and cornmeal are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaging for cross-contamination warnings. Substitute with other gluten-free thickeners if required.
What are the best beans for white chicken chili?
Cannellini and Great Northern beans offer creamy texture and mild flavor, but navy or pinto beans work in a pinch.
How do I thicken my chili further?
Increase masa harina or reduce the broth. Avoid using flour for a lighter, corn-forward texture.
Expert Tips for Success
- Let it rest: After cooking, rest the chili for 10–15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- Bump the freshness: Always finish with a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro to amplify taste.
- Tweak for taste: Adjust seasonings at the end to balance salt, heat, and tang.
- Space for toppings: Don’t overfill bowls; leave room for cheese, chips, sour cream, and avocado.
Nutrition Information
While nutrition details will vary with toppings and substitutions, a typical serving of white chicken chili provides a healthy balance of lean protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Using chicken breast and beans keeps calorie count reasonable, while milk and cheese add calcium and vitamin D.
- Calories: Approximately 350–450 per serving (without toppings).
- Protein: 25–30g per serving.
- Fiber: 7–10g per serving.
- Fat: 8–14g per serving, depending on dairy used.
Perfect Occasions for White Chicken Chili
- Family weeknight dinners
- Game day gatherings
- Potlucks
- Crowd-pleasing parties
- Chilly weather comfort meals
More Recipe Inspiration
- Classic beef chili: Rich, tomato-based, and robust with plenty of spices.
- Chicken tortilla soup: Tomato and broth-based with shredded chicken and tortilla strips.
- Vegetarian chili: Packed with beans, chili peppers, and colorful vegetables, meat-free and flavorful.
White Chicken Chili: One Pot, Endless Possibilities
This slow cooker white chicken chili is more than a meal—it’s a solution for busy evenings, events that demand hearty fare, or anytime you crave flavorful, nourishing comfort. With flexible ingredients, easy steps, and endless possibilities for toppings and sides, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtu5XqFZCSU
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij8XkBN5SYM
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32450737/slow-cooker-white-chicken-chili-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38582816/white-chicken-chili-recipe/
- https://community.qvc.com/t5/Recipes/Slow-Cooker-White-Chicken-Chili-Pioneer-Woman/td-p/7187469
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