Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re searching for something cozy, vibrant, and deeply satisfying, this Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Tender chicken, creamy beans, and layers of mellow warmth from spices and chilies come together in the slow cooker—hands-off, stress-free, and positively delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one on repeat!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is refreshingly simple—no hard-to-find items, just classic pantry staples and a handful of fresh veggies. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color to every bowl.

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 pound): Thighs stay moist and shred beautifully, but you can swap for chicken breasts for a lighter option.
• Sweet onion (1/2, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the base of the chili.
• Green pepper (1/2, chopped): Adds a fresh, mild crunch and a pop of color.
• Jalapeño (1–2, chopped, seeds removed, optional): Use one for gentle warmth or two for a bolder kick—totally customizable!
• Garlic cloves (4, minced): The aromatic star that creates irresistible savory undertones.
• Great northern beans (2 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed): Creamy and delicate, they make the chili satisfying but not heavy.
• Green chilies (3 cans, 4 oz each): These add mellow heat and that signature Southwestern zing.
• Chicken broth (32 oz): The flavorful base, tying everything together and keeping the chili perfectly soupy.
• Chili powder (2 teaspoons): Essential for backbone flavor with gentle earthiness.
• Cumin (2 teaspoons): Adds warm, nutty complexity that plays so well with the beans and chicken.
• Oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a lemony lift and savory edge to the spice blend.
• Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a smoky undertone and beautiful color.
• Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Brings heat—add more or less to suit your spice level.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors (adjust at the end so it’s just right).

Variations

The beauty of Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is its adaptability! Whether you’re looking to make it a bit creamier, need it dairy-free, or want to sneak in extra veggies, there are so many fun ways to make this chili your own each time you cook it.

• Creamy Twist: Stir in a block of softened cream cheese or a splash of half-and-half during the last 30 minutes for rich, comforting creaminess.
• Veggie-Packed: Toss in chopped zucchini, corn, or spinach to bump up the nutrition (and the color on your table).
• Dairy-Free: Skip the dairy-based toppings and finish with avocado and cilantro for freshness and richness without any cream.
• Different Beans: Swap great northern beans with cannellini or navy beans for a subtle twist that still gives a creamy bite.

How to Make Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Layer the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. This makes sure the chicken cooks evenly, soaking up all the beautiful flavors that will soon fill the pot.

Step 2: Add the Veggies and Seasonings

Scatter the chopped onion, green pepper, jalapeño (if using), and garlic on top of the chicken. Next, add the drained beans and green chilies. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne (if you want more heat), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper over everything. Pour in the chicken broth—no need to stir yet!

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 5 1/2 hours. The long, slow simmer lets the chicken get melt-in-your-mouth tender while the beans grow silky and the spices mellow and mingle. Your kitchen will smell amazing long before it’s done!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Finish

After 5 1/2 hours, grab two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker (or take it out and shred if you prefer less mess). Give everything a good stir so the chicken is fully mixed back in. Let the chili cook for about 30 minutes more on low to blend flavors. Now’s the time to taste and add more salt, pepper, or extra spices as you like.

How to Serve Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Garnishes

My favorite way to finish this chili is with a flurry of bright, fresh garnishes. Try a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips on the side. A squeeze of lime also brightens every bite!

Side Dishes

This Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread. A crisp green salad or a side of roasted veggies is perfect if you want to add a bit of lightness to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, set up a chili bar with assorted toppings so everyone can customize their bowl. Or, serve the chili in bread bowls for something extra special (and edible!). For lunchboxes, pour into thermoses and pack with crunchy toppings on the side—warm hands, happy bellies!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your chili cool down a bit, then transfer it to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to four days, and the flavors only get better after a night in the fridge!

Freezing

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili freezes like a champ. Once completely cooled, ladle portions into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2–3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat chili in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If it’s thickened in the fridge, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave—stir and heat in 30-second bursts.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a staple in so many kitchens—it’s warm, nourishing, and so easy to make your own. If you’ve never tried it, let this be the cozy, flavor-packed bowl that wins you over. I hope you and your loved ones savor every spoonful!

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