Go Back

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili - Cozy, Creamy, and Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild or hot)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Toppings: shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack, avocado, jalapeño slices, extra cilantro, tortilla chips, or lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Prep the base: Add the onion, garlic, beans, green chiles, cumin, coriander, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  2. Add chicken and broth: Nestle the chicken breasts (or thighs) on top. Pour in the chicken broth so everything is mostly submerged.
  3. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
  4. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken to a cutting board. Shred with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
  5. Make it creamy: Stir in the sour cream and cream cheese (if using). Cover and cook on Low for another 15–20 minutes, stirring once or twice until smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Brighten it up: Stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime as needed.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, avocado, jalapeños, chips, and extra cilantro if you like. A squeeze of lime is always welcome.