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Crockpot White Chicken Chili - Cozy, Creamy, and So Simple

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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 (thighs work too)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles (mild or hot)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans great northern beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional but nice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes (half a brick)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus wedges for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup frozen corn, 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced), 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • For serving: shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack, avocado slices, tortilla chips, extra cilantro, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Load the slow cooker: Add the chicken, onion, garlic, green chiles, beans, broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, coriander (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
  3. Mash to thicken: Using a ladle, scoop about 1 cup of the beans and broth into a bowl. Mash with a fork or potato masher, then stir the mash back into the crockpot. This thickens the chili naturally.
  4. Add creaminess: Stir in the cream cheese cubes and sour cream until fully melted and smooth. If needed, cover and cook for another 10–15 minutes to warm through.
  5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken to a plate and shred with two forks. Return it to the crockpot and mix well.
  6. Finish with freshness: Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime as needed. If you like more heat, add hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, avocado, extra cilantro, tortilla chips, and more lime. Enjoy warm.