Save to Pinterest A comforting, hearty chili featuring tender chicken, creamy white beans, earthy black beans, and a medley of southwestern spices, all slow-cooked to perfection.
I first made this white chicken chili for a family gathering, and everyone was amazed at how the flavors developed in the slow cooker. It has quickly become a go-to comfort food for chilly nights in our house.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: 1 ½ lbs (680 g)
- White beans (cannellini or Great Northern): 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Jalapeño: 1 medium, seeded and chopped (optional)
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 3 cups (720 ml)
- Diced green chilies: 1 (4 oz / 113 g) can
- Ground cumin: 1 ½ tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Chili powder: ½ tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Cream cheese: 4 oz (115 g), cubed and softened
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Chopped fresh cilantro: optional garnish
- Sliced green onions: optional garnish
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese: optional garnish
- Lime wedges: optional garnish
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients:
- Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Veggies, Beans, Spices:
- Add white beans, black beans, onion, jalapeño, bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, coriander, oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
- Shred Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Creamy Finish:
- Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and the chili is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, cheese, and lime wedges as desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping to add the beans and spices, making this a fun recipe to prep together on quiet afternoons. Everyone enjoys piling on their favorite garnishes when it’s time to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili with tortilla chips or warm cornbread to make it a hearty, satisfying meal. Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from cream cheese, heavy cream, and optional cheese or yogurt. Be sure to check labels for hidden allergens and use gluten-free chicken broth if needed.
Required Tools
Use a slow cooker, cutting board and knife, measuring cups and spoons, large spoon, and forks for shredding chicken when preparing this chili.
Save to Pinterest This chili is just as delicious reheated the next day. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cuts of chicken work best for this chili?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal, as they shred easily after slow cooking and absorb the spices well.
- → Can I adjust the heat level of this dish?
Yes, include jalapeño seeds or add cayenne pepper for more heat, or omit spicy ingredients for a milder flavor.
- → How do the beans contribute to this dish?
White and black beans add creamy texture and earthy notes that complement the chicken and spices, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
- → Is there a substitute for the cream cheese and heavy cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative, adding creaminess while reducing fat content.
- → What are good toppings for this chili?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, shredded cheese, and lime wedges brighten the flavors and add fresh contrast to the creamy base.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, it freezes well for up to two months, making it convenient for meal prepping or leftovers.