Print

Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili Recipe Without Cream Cheese

easy crockpot white chicken chili - featured image

A comforting and creamy white chicken chili made in the crockpot without cream cheese, perfect for cozy dinners and easy meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450 g), trimmed
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern beans)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (4 oz / 113 g) diced green chilies (mild or medium heat)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, can substitute dairy-free coconut yogurt)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes): Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the white beans.
  2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add onion, garlic, beans, diced green chilies, and spices. Pour chicken broth evenly over everything.
  3. Cook Low and Slow (6-7 hours): Cover and cook on low. Alternatively, cook 3-4 hours on high if short on time.
  4. Shred the Chicken: About 15 minutes before serving, remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to crockpot and stir gently.
  5. Add Creaminess and Brightness: Stir in Greek yogurt (if using) and lime juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Final Touches: Let warm through for 10 minutes with lid off to thicken slightly.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with chopped fresh cilantro. Optional: add extra lime or shredded cheese.

Notes

If chili is too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth. For thicker chili, mash some beans before serving. Optional add-ins include frozen corn in last hour or fresh jalapeños for heat. Can be made on stovetop by simmering gently for 1.5 hours. Leftovers store well in fridge for 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: white chicken chili, crockpot chili, slow cooker chili, easy dinner, no cream cheese chili, healthy chili, comforting meal