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Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili

creamy crockpot white chicken chili - featured image

A rich, tangy, and incredibly soothing slow-cooker chili made with chicken thighs, white beans, and a secret creamy finish of cream cheese and lime juice. It is a game-changer for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time while delivering gourmet flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced mild green chiles
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  2. Place raw chicken thighs on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, and oregano evenly over the chicken.
  3. Pour in chicken broth. Add rinsed white beans and diced green chiles. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender.
  5. Remove chicken from pot and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Discard excess fat or skin. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  6. Add softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the pot. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until cream cheese is melted and incorporated.
  7. Stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream (add at the end to prevent curdling). To thicken if too runny, mash some beans or use a cornstarch slurry. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time slightly. Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps. This recipe freezes well but may separate slightly upon reheating; stir gently to restore texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, crockpot recipe, slow cooker, creamy chili, easy dinner, meal prep, comfort food, chicken thighs, gluten-free