There's nothing like coming home to the comforting aroma of white chicken chili simmering away in the crockpot. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a flavorful blend of spices to create a dish that's as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.

I discovered this gem on a chilly Sunday when I wanted something warm but couldn’t be tied to the stove. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, I had a hearty dinner waiting for me by evening. This chili has since become a family favorite, and I know it will be for you too!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Get ready to fall in love with this cozy, crowd-pleasing chili. Whether you're feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a game-changer.

First, it's incredibly hands-off. Toss everything into your crockpot in the morning, and let it work its magic. By dinnertime, you'll have a steaming pot of chili ready to enjoy.

Second, this recipe is healthy yet hearty. Made with protein-packed chicken and white beans, it’s satisfying without being overly heavy. Add in the spices, and you've got a bowl full of bold, comforting flavors.

Another reason to love this chili is its versatility. You can easily adjust the heat level, swap in different beans, or add extra veggies. It’s the perfect base recipe to make your own.

Finally, it’s ideal for leftovers. This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for meal preppers or anyone who loves having lunch ready to go.

Ready to make this delicious, hassle-free chili? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this white chicken chili lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish so delicious:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the heart of this recipe. They cook tender and shred easily after simmering in the crockpot. If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
White beans: Cannellini beans are my favorite for their creamy texture, but you can use Great Northern beans or even navy beans if that's what you have on hand.
Green chilies: These mild chilies add a subtle heat and a bright, tangy flavor. Look for canned green chilies in the Mexican food aisle of your grocery store.
Chicken broth: A good-quality, low-sodium chicken broth forms the base of this chili, keeping it light and flavorful.
Cream cheese: This is the secret to the chili’s creamy consistency. It melts into the broth, creating a luscious texture without the need for heavy cream.

Special Equipment

All you need is a slow cooker. A 6-quart model works perfectly for this recipe, but any size that accommodates your ingredients will do.

How to Make This Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Making this crockpot white chicken chili is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready with minimal effort.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse and drain your beans, chop your onion, and measure out your spices. This makes assembly a breeze.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

In the base of your crockpot, layer the chicken breasts, followed by the white beans, green chilies, onion, and spices (cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika). Pour the chicken broth over everything.

Step 3: Set It and Forget It

Cover your crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt into the chili, creating a creamy, luscious base. If you want it even creamier, add a splash of half-and-half or heavy cream at this stage.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This crockpot white chicken chili is perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

In the fridge: Transfer the chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
In the freezer: Portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay flat to save space, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the chili has thickened too much during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are a few ways to customize it:

Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or diced sweet potatoes for substance.
Dairy-free: Substitute the cream cheese with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Different beans: Swap white beans for black beans, kidney beans, or a mix for added variety.
Extra veggies: Stir in corn, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini for a boost of color and nutrition.

The possibilities are endless—don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

With its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors, this Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a fuss-free dinner, this recipe is a winner every time. Try it today, and watch it become a family favorite!