Name: Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488396H22M3S
Total time: PT-488396H22M3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed; 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish); Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This white chicken chili is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly flavorful. The slow cooking process allows the spices and ingredients to blend beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying and creamy chili. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or make-ahead lunches. Plus, it requires minimal prep and uses simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Canned white beans (like Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
Canned diced green chiles
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Ground cumin
Dried oregano
Ground coriander
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Cream cheese
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the white beans, green chiles, chopped onion, garlic, and all the spices over the chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth, covering the ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it cook for another 15–20 minutes until the cream cheese is melted and well incorporated.
Stir everything together until smooth and creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: about 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes, depending on the setting used.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or increase the chili powder for more heat.
Thicker Chili: Mash some of the beans before adding to the slow cooker.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and heavy cream.
Extra Veggies: Add corn, bell peppers, or spinach in the last hour of cooking.
Cheesy Version: Stir in shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese at the end.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
For the microwave, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
This chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What type of white beans should I use?

Great Northern, Cannellini, or Navy beans all work well in this recipe.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time since the chicken is already cooked. Add it during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this chili on the stovetop instead?

Absolutely. Simmer everything in a large pot for about 30 minutes, then add the cream cheese and cream.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder or green chiles.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it before adding to the slow cooker for even cooking and food safety.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.

How can I thicken the chili?

Mash some beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

Can I use cream cheese spread instead of block cream cheese?

Block-style cream cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture, so it’s preferred.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially broth and spices) are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this chili delivers every time with its rich texture and balanced flavors. Enjoy the convenience of slow cooking and the satisfaction of a warm bowl of creamy, comforting chili.