Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili recipe.
There’s something magical about the way the flavors meld together while it slowly cooks, filling your home with a warm, inviting aroma.
I appreciate how effortlessly this meal comes together—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying dinner waiting for you.
Plus, you can customize it with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream, making it even more delightful.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making this chili on repeat!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
When it comes to making a satisfying bowl of chili, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. With this Smoky White Bean Chicken Chili, you’ll find a beautiful blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy white beans that creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting.
I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas? Let’s plunge into what you’ll need to get started on this delightful slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies
- 1 lb white beans, such as navy beans
- 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Water (or a combination with broth)
- Chopped red onion (for serving)
- Chopped cilantro (for serving)
- Diced avocado (for serving)
- Lime wedge (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Now that you’ve got your shopping list ready, let’s talk a little more about these ingredients. The spices—especially the cumin and smoked paprika—bring a depth of flavor that makes this chili truly special.
Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous, or dial it back if you prefer a milder dish. And don’t forget the toppings! They’re not just for show; they add texture and freshness that elevate each bite.
You can mix and match your toppings based on what you have on hand, or just go wild and throw everything on there. After all, chili is meant to be fun, right?
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
Making this Smoky White Bean Chicken Chili is like having a cozy hug in a bowl, and the best part? It practically cooks itself in the slow cooker. First things first, let’s get that 3-quart slow cooker cranked up to high.
While it’s warming up, take a small dry skillet and toss in 2 teaspoons of ground cumin and 1 teaspoon of ground coriander. Stir those spices over medium-low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to smell toasty and aromatic. Trust me, your kitchen will begin to smell incredible, and you might even find yourself doing a little happy dance—just don’t burn anything.
Now, in a bowl, combine that lovely cumin and coriander mix with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. This blend is going to be the flavor bomb that makes your chili sing.
Next, grab that finely chopped large onion and 3 large garlic cloves (about 1 tablespoon) and toss them into the slow cooker. Add in the can of chopped green chilies and your rinsed 1 lb of white beans, like navy beans.
Now, here comes the fun part: sprinkle those 3 lbs of boneless skinless chicken thighs with your spice mixture and plop them right in there. Pour in 5 cups of low sodium chicken broth (or a mix with water if you want), cover it up, and let it cook for about 8 hours. Yes, 8 whole hours of blissful waiting while your house fills with the tantalizing aroma of chili cooking away.
When the time’s up, your beans should be soft, and the chicken should practically fall apart when you stir it. Take a moment to admire your creation; you did that!
Now, serve it up with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. It’s all about those toppings, adding that extra flavor and texture that makes each bite a little bit of heaven.
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Substitutions & Variations
Although the Smoky White Bean Chicken Chili is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For a different flavor, try swapping chicken thighs for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils. You can also mix in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies.
If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder. Want a creamier texture? Add a splash of coconut milk or cream cheese before serving.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different beans—cannellini or great northern beans work wonderfully too! Enjoy customizing your chili!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
If you’ve customized your Smoky White Bean Chicken Chili and are wondering what to serve alongside it, you’re in for a treat.
I love pairing my chili with warm cornbread; it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth. A fresh side salad adds a nice crunch—think mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, tortilla chips with guacamole make a fantastic companion. You could also set up a toppings bar with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to let everyone customize their bowls.
Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream to cool the heat! Each option enhances the chili and creates a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing your Smoky White Bean Chicken Chili, remember that adjusting the spices can greatly enhance the flavor. I often play around with the cayenne, depending on how spicy I want it. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce it or omit it entirely.
Also, feel free to experiment with different beans; navy beans work well, but cannellini or great northern beans are great alternatives. For a richer taste, adding a splash of lime juice just before serving can brighten the dish.
Finally, don’t skip the toppings! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream take this chili to the next level. Enjoy customizing it to suit your taste!