Looking for a comforting and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This white chicken chili slow cooker recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and delicious, this dish is a perfect choice.

With tender shredded chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and just the right kick of spices, this slow cooker recipe brings convenience and taste together in every bowl.

Below, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, list the tools you need, and share tips to make your white chicken chili absolutely irresistible. Let’s get started.

Preparation and Cooking Time

One of the best things about this recipe, besides how good it tastes, is how little active prep it requires. Your slow cooker will do most of the heavy lifting, leaving you with more time to focus on other things.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high
Total Time: About 6.5 to 8 hours

It’s the perfect recipe for a busy day when you need a hearty, hands-off meal!

Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Cooking

Before you get started, it’s always helpful to have the right tools on hand to make cooking more seamless. For this white chicken chili recipe, you’ll only need a few essential items:

Slow Cooker: The star of the show! An adjustable slow cooker with low and high-temperature settings makes this recipe hassle-free.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping your vegetables such as onions, garlic, and jalapeños.
Measuring cups and spoons: To get the right balance of spices, broth, and dairy.
Mixing spoon or ladle: For stirring everything together and serving the chili when it’s done.
Shredder/Fork: You’ll use these to shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker once it’s tender.

Having these tools handy will make cooking not only easier but also enjoyable. Now that you’re equipped, let’s move on to the ingredients.

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili

To achieve the creamy, flavorful goodness that this dish is famous for, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option).
2 cups of chicken broth: The base for a rich, savory flavor.
1 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese: These create that creamy texture we love in white chicken chili.
2 cans of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: For protein and a hearty texture.
1 can of sweet corn, drained (optional): For a little pop of sweetness.
1 small onion, diced: Adds depth to the flavor.
1-2 cloves of garlic, minced: For aromatic goodness.
1 jalapeño, diced (optional): To give it just the right amount of heat.
1 teaspoon cumin: For a warm, earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder: To enhance the spicy kick.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: To add a subtly smoky touch.
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (optional): Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

These ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, and together, they’ll create one unforgettable flavor bomb.

White Chicken Chili Slow Cooker Recipe: Step-By-Step Instructions

White chicken chili made in a slow cooker is a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and flavorful spices, this dish simmers to perfection with minimal effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a comforting bowl of slow cooker white chicken chili!

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Chop the onion, mince your garlic, and dice the jalapeño if you’re using it. Rinse and drain the beans and corn. This step ensures you’re fully ready before you begin layering the flavors in your slow cooker.

2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Add the chicken breasts to the bottom of the slow cooker first. This allows them to absorb all the rich flavors as they cook. Then, layer in the cannellini beans, corn, diced onion, garlic, jalapeño, chicken broth, and the seasonings (cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper).

Stir everything gently to combine. Leave the heavy cream or cream cheese aside for now.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, steady heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while making the chicken fall-apart tender.

4. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. It should shred easily after cooking this long. Stir the shredded chicken back into the chili.

5. Add the Creaminess

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or cream cheese. This step transforms the broth into a creamy, luscious texture that sets white chicken chili apart.

6. Taste and Adjust

Give the chili a quick taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a dash of lime juice to brighten up the flavors.

7. Serve and Style

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Fresh cilantro and diced avocado add freshness, while tortilla chips bring some crunch. Serve with cornbread or a warm crusty loaf for a complete meal.

A Few Helpful Cooking Tips

Customize the Heat Level: If you prefer mild chili, skip the jalapeños altogether or use only half. For more spice, you can include red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat.
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: If you’re short on time, you can shred pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and add it during the last hour of cooking. This option saves time without compromising flavor.
Thicken It Up: If you prefer a thicker texture, smash a few beans with the back of your spoon while stirring. This will naturally thicken the chili.
Make it Dairy-Free: Simply swap the heavy cream or cream cheese for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and your chili will still be creamy and satisfying.

Why This Slow Cooker Recipe Is a Game-Changer?

Slow cooker recipes like this one offer the best balance of ease and deliciousness. The white chicken chili crockpot recipe allows you to set it in the morning and come home to a flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Plus, it’s healthier and lighter than traditional chili, thanks to the chicken and white beans, while still being hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.

Other benefits? It’s budget-friendly and makes great leftovers. You can refrigerate the extra chili for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for a meal that’s ready when you are.

Perfect Pairings for White Chicken Chili

Wondering what sides go best with this creamy, spicy chili? Here are some winning ideas:

Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread with honey drizzled on top complements the spices and creamy texture perfectly.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the hearty chili.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chili over cooked rice or quinoa for an even more filling meal.
Tortilla Chips: Scoop up your chili with tortilla chips for a fun, snackable side.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of white chicken chili that’s been simmering all day in the slow cooker. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Perfect for chilly evenings, game day gatherings, or any time in between, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s your turn to make this delicious dish. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a comforting dinner that’s as effortless as it is satisfying. Bon appétit!