Okay, real talk: weeknights are insane, right? By the time I’m home, the last thing I want to do is spend hours cooking. That’s when my slow cooker becomes my best friend. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver! I’ve been making this **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** for years, and it’s always a winner. It’s total comfort food, but without all the guilt–packed with protein and fiber, you know? Plus, using the slow cooker means dinner practically makes itself. I swear, sometimes I think my slow cooker deserves its own room in the house. It’s that important!
This recipe for **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** is seriously the answer to those crazy evenings. You just dump everything in and let the magic happen. And believe me, the flavor is just incredible. It’s healthy, it’s easy, and it’s totally delicious. What more could you ask for?
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Seriously, you’re going to be obsessed with this chili. Here’s why:
- It’s basically effortless!
- The flavors are just *amazing*.
- It’s actually good for you!
- You can totally make it your own.
- Leftovers are even better (if there are any!).
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
I’m not kidding, prep takes like, 10 minutes? Dump it all in the slow cooker and forget about it. Come home to a ready-to-eat dinner. Boom!
Hearty and Flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
This isn’t some wimpy chili, okay? It’s packed with flavor and has a really satisfying, creamy texture thanks to the white beans. You’ll be full and happy!
Healthy and Nutritious Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
All that chicken and those beans mean tons of protein and fiber. It’s a super filling and healthy meal that you can feel good about serving your family.
Customizable to Your Taste
Want it spicier? Add more chili seasoning or some hot sauce! Wanna load it up with toppings? Go for it! This recipe is super flexible, so make it how *you* like it.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch on Sunday and you’ve got lunches for the whole week! It keeps really well in the fridge, and it reheats like a dream. Meal prep win!
Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Okay, here’s what you’ll need. Don’t worry, it’s mostly stuff you probably already have! I always double-check my spice rack before I start. You’ll want:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I get mine from the butcher, but whatever works!)
- 1 large onion, chopped (Don’t skimp on the onion, it adds so much flavor!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (I *love* garlic, sometimes I add a little extra. Oops!)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (Low sodium is my go-to!)
- 1 packet chili seasoning (Use your fave!)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t forget to taste as you go!)
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is the easy part, I promise. Just follow these steps and you’ll have a delicious chili waiting for you later. My favorite part is that you can just set it and forget it. Love that!
Preparing the Ingredients
First, chop up that onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic, too. I usually do this while the slow cooker is warming up a bit. Then, just toss the chicken breasts, onion, garlic, and bell pepper right into the slow cooker. Easy peasy!
Cooking Your Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Now, add in the great northern beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (don’t drain ’em!), chicken broth, chili seasoning, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! Give it a good stir, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually go with low ’cause I’m at work all day.
Shredding the Chicken
Okay, this is where the magic happens. Once the chicken is cooked through (it should shred easily with a fork), take two forks and shred it right there in the slow cooker. It should fall apart super easily. Then, just stir the shredded chicken back into the chili. Mmm, it’s smelling good now, right?
Serving Your Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Serve it up hot! Seriously, that’s it! I love to add a dollop of sour cream and some shredded cheese. Green onions? Yes, please! Get creative with your toppings. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Okay, so you’ve got the basics down, but here’s how to take your **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** from “good” to “OMG, this is amazing!” Trust me, these little tips make all the difference. I learned some of these the hard way (oops!).
First, make sure the chicken breasts are mostly covered by the liquid. If they’re sticking way up, they might dry out a bit. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning *after* it’s cooked. Sometimes it needs a little extra something-something. And finally, don’t overcook it! You want the chicken to be tender, not tough. If you’re cooking on high, keep an eye on it. Seriously, these tips will save you!
Variations for Your Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Okay, so you’ve made the basic recipe, and it’s amazing, right? But what if you want to mix things up a little? No problem! This **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** is super versatile. Here are some ideas to get you started. Seriously, the possibilities are endless!
Adding Different Beans to Your Chicken and White Bean Chili
Wanna switch up the beans? Go for it! Black beans would be delicious, or maybe some kidney beans for a more traditional chili vibe. Pinto beans would also work great. Just swap ’em out for the white beans. Easy!
Spice Up Your Chicken and White Bean Chili
If you like things hot, hot, HOT, then add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Or, for a little extra kick, stir in some hot sauce right before serving. Trust me, a little goes a long way!
Adding Vegetables to Your Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Corn is always a winner, adding a touch of sweetness. Zucchini or squash would also be yummy. Just chop ’em up and toss ’em in with everything else. So easy, right?
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili**, but what do you serve with it? I’m a big fan of recipes, myself. A simple salad is always a good choice, too. And don’t forget the tortilla chips for dipping! Load it up with your favorite toppings – sour cream, cheese, green onions… the works!
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Got questions about this **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili**? I got you! Here are some of the most common things people ask me. If you’re still wondering about something, leave me a comment!
Can I use frozen chicken in Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili?
Okay, so technically, you *can*, but I don’t really recommend it. Frozen chicken can release a lot of water as it cooks, which can make your chili a little watery. If you *have* to use frozen, try to drain off some of the excess liquid before shredding the chicken.
How long can I store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili?
This **chicken chili** is even BETTER the next day! Just let it cool down completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep for 3-4 days, easy. Perfect for meal prepping those lunches, remember?
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot is your friend! Just use the “soup” or “chili” setting and cook for about 20-25 minutes, then let it naturally release for about 10 minutes. Follow the rest of the recipe as usual. Dinner in a flash!
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** is even better the next day. Just let it cool completely, pop it in an airtight container, and stash it in the fridge. To reheat, just microwave it until it’s piping hot, or warm it up on the stovetop. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information for Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Okay, just a heads-up: nutritional info can vary based on the brands you use and how big your servings are. So, it’s just an estimate, okay?
Enjoy Your Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili
Seriously, give this **Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili** a try! I know you’ll love it. Share it with your friends, and don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below!
Print
7 Secrets: Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker chicken and white bean chili.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet chili seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts, onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a slow cooker.
- Add great northern beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili seasoning, cumin, and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred chicken with two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken back into the chili.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add a can of corn for extra sweetness.
- Adjust the amount of chili seasoning to your preference.
- Top with your favorite chili toppings such as sour cream, cheese, or green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg