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Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

creamy slow cooker white chicken chili - featured image

A comforting, velvety white chicken chili made in a slow cooker with cream cheese for a rich, stable texture. This recipe balances bold flavors with mild heat, making it perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4-7 oz) diced green chiles
  • 32 oz (4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried Mexican oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic in the last minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. Add drained white beans, diced green chiles, and raw chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and stir gently.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
  4. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Set aside.
  5. Blend about half of the soup mixture using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth to create a creamy base.
  6. Return shredded chicken and softened cream cheese to the pot. Stir until cream cheese is melted and incorporated. If needed, cook on low for 15 more minutes.
  7. Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker adds significant flavor depth. Blending half the beans creates a thick, creamy texture without needing a roux. If the chili is too thin, cook uncovered for 20 minutes or blend more beans. If too thick, add a splash of broth. Dairy can separate if frozen; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, slow cooker recipes, creamy chili, meal prep, comfort food, gluten-free dinner, easy weeknight meals