Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.
- Effortless: Just dump the ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes plenty for leftovers.
- Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese adds a luscious texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 pounds chicken breast
- 2 cans Rotel (undrained)
- 2 cans corn (undrained)
- 2 cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cans black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 packets ranch seasoning
- 16 ounces cream cheese (2 bricks)
Directions
- Add all ingredients except cream cheese to a crockpot.
- Place cream cheese bricks on top of the mixture.
- Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken and melted cream cheese into the chili until fully combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours (depending on crockpot setting)
Variations
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with an extra can of beans and use vegetable broth.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese or swap it with Greek yogurt.
- Add Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale before serving for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion chili into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great option and will add extra flavor.
2. What is Rotel?
Rotel is a brand of diced tomatoes mixed with green chilies. It adds a zesty kick to dishes.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative or leave it out for a broth-based chili.
4. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
Yes, simmer the ingredients on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. How do I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
Mash some of the beans or let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
6. Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Absolutely! Replace the packets with your favorite homemade ranch seasoning blend.
7. What toppings go well with chicken chili?
Try sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado slices, or tortilla chips.
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all canned and packaged ingredients are verified gluten-free.
9. Can I double the recipe for a large gathering?
Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
10. What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
This chicken chili crockpot recipe is a versatile and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Chicken Chili Crockpot Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
Hearty and creamy chicken chili made in a crockpot, perfect for busy days and cooler weather. This budget-friendly recipe uses pantry staples and features a rich combination of chicken, beans, spices, and cream cheese. Great for meal prep and easily customizable to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast
- 2 cans Rotel (undrained)
- 2 cans corn (undrained)
- 2 cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cans black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 packets ranch seasoning
- 16 ounces cream cheese (2 bricks)
Instructions
-
- Add all ingredients except cream cheese to a crockpot.
- Place cream cheese bricks on top of the mixture.
- Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken and melted cream cheese into the chili until fully combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Substitute chicken with extra beans and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours (depending on crockpot setting)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker, Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
