Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili - Cozy, Flavorful, and Effortless

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili - Cozy, Flavorful, and Effortless

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A simmering pot of white chicken chili is one of those meals that makes the whole house feel warm. It’s creamy without being heavy, full of gentle heat, and incredibly comforting. Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work while you go about your day. This version leans on simple pantry ingr

Ingredients

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans great northern beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for a little heat)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • For serving: shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack, avocado slices, tortilla chips, extra lime wedges, and more cilantro

Method

  1. Layer the base: Add the beans, green chiles, onion, garlic, and jalapeño to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Season: Stir in cumin, coriander, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Add the chicken: Nestle the chicken breasts or thighs into the mixture, making sure they’re mostly submerged.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or on High for 2.5–3.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
  5. Shred the chicken: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return it to the slow cooker.
  6. Creamy finish: Stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt, and the cream cheese if using. Let it warm through for 10–15 minutes, stirring until smooth.
  7. Brighten it up: Add lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime as needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, and extra cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight.
  • Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze up to 3 months. For best texture, freeze before adding dairy, and stir in sour cream/cream cheese after reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid boiling once dairy is added.
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