Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that practically cook themselves, and this white chicken chili is no exception. Set it, forget it, and come home to a deliciously comforting bowl of goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few minutes of prep before letting the crock pot do all the work.
- The combination of tender chicken, creamy beans, and just the right amount of spice makes for a perfectly balanced dish.
- It’s versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any taste or dietary preference.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) white corn, drained
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot or slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Can opener
- Mixing spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the beans and corn. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the process smoother. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, drained corn, beans, and green chiles on top. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over everything. Stir gently to combine. Tip: Layering the ingredients helps distribute the flavors evenly as everything cooks.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done. Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid too often, as this can significantly increase the cooking time.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and shredded cheese until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Let the chili sit for about 10 minutes to thicken before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their white chicken chili, consider these advanced tips. First, toasting your own cumin and oregano before adding them can deepen the flavors. Second, using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought can make a significant difference in taste. Lastly, for a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the crock pot. These small touches can transform your dish from good to great.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or increase the amount of green chiles.
- Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with extra beans and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the sour cream, heavy cream, and cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Adding a can of diced tomatoes can give the chili a different flavor profile and add some color.
- For a smokier taste, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low to ensure they cook through completely. Just be sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F before shredding.
How can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
To make this in an Instant Pot, follow the same steps but cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with a natural release. Then, proceed with shredding the chicken and adding the cream and cheese.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This chili freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Summary
This white chicken chili crock pot recipe is the epitome of comfort food—easy to make, delicious, and versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.