Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking: Simply add ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Creamy and comforting: A rich blend of sour cream and broth creates a satisfying texture.
Customizable: Adjust heat levels and toppings to suit your taste.
Freezer-friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store for later use.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 (15 oz) cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
30 oz chicken broth (about 4 cups)
1 cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, tortilla strips, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges

directions

Prepare the slow cooker: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add vegetables and spices: Layer the beans, corn, green chiles, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Add broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Add dairy: Stir in the sour cream and chopped cilantro.
Final cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 15 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes (depending on cooking method)

Variations

Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or use hot diced green chiles.
Dairy-free: Substitute sour cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Additional protein: Incorporate cooked turkey or chicken sausage for added flavor.
Thicker chili: Mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker to create a creamier texture.

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to reach desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, ensure they are fully cooked before serving. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this chili spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, use hot green chiles, or incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, you can substitute great northern beans with other white beans like cannellini or navy beans.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, sauté the onions and garlic, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and stir in the sour cream and cilantro before serving.

Can I prepare this chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook as directed when ready to serve.

How can I thicken the chili?

To thicken the chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker or stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, you can use canned chicken. Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips complement this chili well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They will add a slightly different flavor and texture but will still work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a creamy, comforting meal with minimal effort. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary needs and spice preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this chili is sure to satisfy and warm you up.