Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and joy. My Slow Cooker Chicken Chili isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, effortlessly simmered to perfection while you go about your day. Prepare for tender shredded chicken, robust beans, and a medley of vibrant peppers, all bathed in a rich, spiced tomato broth.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

• Effortlessly Delicious: This crockpot chicken chili truly cooks itself, requiring minimal hands-on time for maximum flavor.
• Wholesome & Hearty: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies and nourishes.
• Meal Prep Dream: Prepare a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week, perfect for busy schedules.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adjust the spice level and experiment with a variety of toppings to suit every palate.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilize pantry staples and affordable chicken breasts to create a cost-effective family dinner.
• Freezer-Friendly: Stores beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for freezing for future quick meals.
• Sensory Delight: The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like the coziest place on earth, promising a deeply satisfying experience.

Ingredients Needed for Your Perfect Chicken Chili

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a truly memorable meal. We focus on fresh, accessible items to ensure outstanding flavor in every spoonful of this slow cooker chicken chili.

• 1.5 lbs / 680g boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump, fresh chicken for the best texture.
• 1 large / 200g onion, chopped: A sweet or yellow onion works best to build a flavorful base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for aromatic depth.
• 1 medium / 120g red bell pepper, chopped: Look for firm, brightly colored peppers.
• 1 medium / 120g green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a slightly bitter, earthy contrast.
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Rinsing removes excess sodium and starch.
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained: Adds another layer of heartiness and fiber.
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained: Sweetness and texture that pops!
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: The juice contributes to the rich broth.
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Brings a subtle kick without extra effort.
• 1 packet (approx. 1.25 oz / 35g) chili seasoning: A convenient blend to kickstart your flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Essential for that authentic, earthy chili taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano: Adds a classic herb note that complements the other spices.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little extra heat!
• 1 cup / 240ml chicken broth: The liquid foundation for our rich stew.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always season gradually and taste as you go.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: SLOW COOKER WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILI – Discover another creamy, flavorful slow cooker chili featuring tender chicken and hearty white beans!

Essential Equipment for Your Crockpot Chicken Chili

Creating this easy slow cooker chicken chili requires just a few basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process even smoother!

• Slow Cooker: The star of the show, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
• Knife: For precise chopping of vegetables.
• Cutting Board: Essential for safe and easy prep work.
• Can opener: To quickly access your canned goods.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate spice measurements.
• Measuring cups: To ensure correct liquid volumes.
• Fork: Primarily used for shredding the cooked chicken.

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Recipe Overview

This slow cooker chicken chili is designed for ease and maximum flavor with minimal effort.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Follow these simple steps to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying slow cooker chicken chili that will become a new family favorite.

Gather & Layer

1. Prepare the base: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures even cooking.
2. Add the aromatics: Scatter the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped green bell pepper directly over the chicken. These ingredients form the aromatic foundation.
3. Introduce the hearty elements: Pour in the rinsed and drained black beans, kidney beans, drained corn, undrained diced tomatoes, and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Do not stir yet!

Season & Simmer

4. Season generously: Evenly sprinkle the chili seasoning, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the layered mixture. Remember, these spices are crucial for that authentic chili flavor.
5. Add liquid & initial seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the chili seasoning already contains some salt.
6. Slow cook to perfection: Cover the slow cooker securely. Cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easily shreddable with a fork when done. If the sauce seems too thick during cooking, you can add a splash more chicken broth.

Shred & Serve

7. Shred the chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and transfer them to a cutting board or shallow dish. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to combine all the delicious ingredients.
8. Final adjustments: Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch more cayenne if you desire.
9. Serve warm: Ladle the hot chili into bowls. Enhance the experience by topping it with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, creamy avocado slices, or fresh cilantro.

CHECK OUT: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup – For another incredibly comforting and flavorful chicken and slow cooker creation!

Tips for Success with Your Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Elevate your slow cooker chicken chili with these expert tips:

• Don’t Peek Too Often: Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking time.
• Fresh Garlic & Onion: While convenient, garlic and onion powder won’t yield the same depth of flavor as fresh, minced ingredients.
• Adjust Spice: Start with less cayenne and add more to taste. For a milder chili, omit it entirely.
• Shredding Trick: Use a hand mixer on low speed for super-fast chicken shredding directly in the slow cooker!
• Rest for Flavor: If time allows, let the chili sit on ‘warm’ for 30 minutes after shredding the chicken. The flavors will deepen further.

Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Chili

Make this slow cooker chicken chili your own with these easy modifications:

• Spice It Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers of different colors, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
• Bean Variety: Swap black beans or kidney beans for pinto beans or cannellini beans.
• Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika can add wonderful depth.
• Dairy-Free: Omit cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives for toppings.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your chili seasoning packet is certified GF.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cozy Chili

Round out your slow cooker chicken chili experience with these delightful pairings:

• Classic Toppings: Always offer shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chopped cilantro, and diced avocado.
• Crunchy Companions: Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a crusty baguette for dipping.
• Refreshing Sides: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast.
• Beverage Pairings: Iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a crisp apple cider are excellent non-alcoholic choices.

Health Benefits of This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Beyond its incredible taste, this slow cooker chicken chili offers a powerhouse of nutrition:

• High Protein: With 30g of protein per serving, it’s excellent for muscle repair and satiety.
• Rich in Fiber: Loaded with 7g of dietary fiber from beans and vegetables, supporting digestive health.
• Vitamin & Mineral Packed: Bell peppers provide Vitamin C, tomatoes offer lycopene, and beans contribute iron and folate.
• Lean Meal: Made with boneless, skinless chicken, it keeps total fat and saturated fat in check.
• Heart-Healthy: The combination of fiber and lean protein makes it a beneficial choice for cardiovascular wellness.

Storage & Reheating Your Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

This slow cooker chicken chili is fantastic for making ahead and enjoying later!

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, cool the chili completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time on low by about 2 hours or on high by 1 hour to ensure they cook through completely.

Can I brown the chicken first?

You can, but it’s not necessary for this slow cooker recipe. Browning adds a layer of flavor, but the slow cooking process extracts plenty of taste without it, keeping this recipe incredibly simple.

Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild warmth from the diced tomatoes and green chilies and the optional cayenne. If you prefer it milder, omit the cayenne. For more heat, add extra cayenne or a diced jalapeño.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, or sweet potatoes can be added at the beginning. Spinach or zucchini can be stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What if my chili is too thin/thick?

If too thin, remove a cup of liquid, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch, then return to the slow cooker and cook for another 30 minutes. If too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.

More Delicious Dishes You’ll Love

• Slow Cooker Cheesy Taco Soup – If you love the flavors of chili, this creamy, cheesy taco soup is a must-try!
• Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Chili – For another hearty chili option, explore this classic beef and bean version, perfect for a crowd.
• Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole – Craving more chicken and Mexican-inspired flavors in a comforting dish? This casserole is your answer!

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor simple, wholesome goodness without the fuss. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or feeding a crowd. Give it a try and taste the ease and flavor for yourself! Follow us on Pinterest for more amazing recipe ideas.

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