There’s something magical about the aroma of slow cooker chicken chili wafting through the house. It’s a warm hug on a chilly day, filling your kitchen with spices and savory goodness that makes you want to dive right in. Picture this: you return home after a long day, and as you step through the door, the delightful scent of tender chicken mingling with chili spices greets you like an old friend.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make slow cooker chicken chili</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen chicken in slow cooker chicken chili?
- What can I serve with slow cooker chicken chili?
- How long does slow cooker chicken chili last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This comforting dish is more than just food; it stirs up memories of cozy family dinners and game nights with friends. Imagine sitting around the table, bowls in hand, laughter filling the air as everyone digs into a hearty serving of slow cooker chicken chili. It’s the perfect companion for those moments when all you want is something delicious and fulfilling to share.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This slow cooker chicken chili is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice cooks to impress their guests
- The flavor profile bursts with warmth and spice, making every bite irresistible
- Its vibrant colors bring a festive flair to any gathering
- This dish is versatile enough for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals
I still remember the first time I made this slow cooker chicken chili for a potluck. Everyone couldn’t get enough; even my picky cousin asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For tenderness, use 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size.
Kidney Beans: Opt for canned beans for convenience; they add protein and texture.
Black Beans: These provide rich flavor; rinse them to reduce sodium before adding.
Red Bell Pepper: Chop it finely for sweetness and vibrant color that brightens up the dish.
Onion: Sauté until translucent; it deepens the flavor base wonderfully.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma—use plenty for that extra zing!
Chili Powder: This spice blend brings warmth; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
Cumin: A must-have for depth; its earthy notes complement the chili beautifully.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes for convenience; they add moisture and tanginess to balance flavors.
Chicken Broth: Choose low sodium for better control over saltiness in your final dish.
Fresh Cilantro (optional): A sprinkle at serving adds freshness and color; it’s totally optional but recommended.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make slow cooker chicken chili
Start by prepping your ingredients: Chop garlic, onion, red bell pepper, and set aside everything you need within reach.
Add the Base Ingredients: Place chopped onion and minced garlic into your slow cooker first, creating a savory foundation. It smells divine already!
Add Chicken Breasts: Layer your boneless skinless chicken breast directly over the onions and garlic. Don’t worry about cutting them up yet!
Add Beans and Veggies: Toss in kidney beans, black beans, chopped red bell pepper, and diced tomatoes next; it’s like a colorful fiesta in there!
Add Spices: Sprinkle chili powder and cumin evenly over everything—this is where the magic happens as aromas fill your kitchen.
Pour in Chicken Broth: Gently pour low-sodium broth over all ingredients until submerged—this will help everything cook evenly.
Cook Low & Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours—just resist peeking too often!
Once it’s done cooking, shred that chicken right in there with two forks—it’ll be tender enough to pull apart effortlessly! Stir everything together until well combined. Serve hot in bowls topped with fresh cilantro if desired.
Enjoy each comforting spoonful of this delightful slow cooker chicken chili! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms both body and soul while sparking joy amongst friends and family.
You Must Know
- Slow cooker chicken chili is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for cozy nights
- Its aroma fills the house, making everyone excited for mealtime
- This dish is not only simple to make but also adaptable to your taste preferences, ensuring every bowl is unique
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken for extra flavor, then add your ingredients before letting the slow cooker do its magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with beans, corn, or even some unexpected spices like cinnamon for warmth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When using chicken thighs instead of breasts, you’ll find they stay juicier
- Always season your layers for maximum flavor
- Cooking longer allows spices to meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste
Sharing this slow cooker chicken chili recipe brings back memories of chilly evenings spent around the table with friends and family enjoying hearty bowls together.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in slow cooker chicken chili?
Yes, but make sure it cooks thoroughly before serving to ensure safety.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken chili?
Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal that complements the flavors.
How long does slow cooker chicken chili last in the fridge?
It lasts about four days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Experience the comforting embrace of slow cooker chicken chili, a dish that transforms tender chicken and vibrant vegetables into a flavorful feast. As it simmers, your home fills with a rich aroma that invites everyone to gather around the table. Perfect for chilly evenings or lively gatherings, this easy recipe is sure to impress both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the garlic, onion, and red bell pepper.
- Place chopped onion and minced garlic in the slow cooker as a base.
- Layer boneless chicken breasts over the onions and garlic.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, chopped red bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle chili powder and cumin evenly over all ingredients.
- Pour low-sodium chicken broth over everything until submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours without opening the lid.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
