Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It combines the rich flavors of classic chili with a creamy texture that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or craving something cozy on a chilly day, this dish fits the bill. The easy preparation and hearty ingredients make it a standout option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it do the work!
- Rich Flavor: The addition of cream cheese gives this chili a unique, creamy broth that you won’t find in traditional recipes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served with rice, tortillas, or your favorite toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting taste and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at your table.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from chicken and beans, making it both filling and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your cooking experience, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crock pot
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Crock pot: This is the star of the show! It allows for slow cooking, enhancing flavors while you go about your day.
- Chopping board & Knife: Essential for preparing your fresh ingredients quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe has everything you love about classic chili but with a delicious cream broth. This chili is easy and delicious.
Proteins
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
Beans
- 1 can black beans (15 oz – drained and rinsed)
- 1 can great northern beans (15 oz – not drained)
Tomatoes & Sauces
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (10 oz can)
- 1 cup salsa verde
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning Packet
- 1/2 onion (chopped)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Liquids & Creaminess
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
How to Make Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and gather all canned items to ensure everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crock Pot
Add all the ingredients to the crock pot except for the cream cheese and cilantro.
– Make sure to drain and rinse the black beans before adding them to avoid excess sodium.
Step 3: Cook on Low or High
Cover the crock pot with its lid. Set it to cook:
– On low for 6-8 hours
– Or on high for 3-4 hours
Step 4: Shred Chicken
After cooking time has finished, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot.
– Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
– Return shredded chicken back into the crock pot.
Step 5: Add Cream Cheese
Add in the cream cheese to the mixture.
– Cover again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.
Step 6: Stir & Serve
Stir everything together until well combined. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cilantro or cheese. Enjoy your delicious crock pot cream cheese chicken chili!
How to Serve Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
Serving your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit various tastes. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate this dish:
With Toppings
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle some cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
- Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado brings a smooth, buttery taste that balances the spice.
In a Bowl
- Chili Bowl – Serve in individual bowls for cozy family dinners.
- Bread Bowls – Hollow out small bread loaves for an edible and fun presentation.
With Chips
- Tortilla Chips – Crispy chips make for a great crunchy contrast to the creamy chili.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with the savory chili.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Meal Prep Containers – Divide into portions for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How to Perfect Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
To get the most out of your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe, follow these helpful tips:
- Adjust Spice Levels – Taste and add more cumin or salsa verde if you prefer it spicier.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cilantro and garlic will enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low allows flavors to meld beautifully; try not to rush it.
- Experiment with Beans – Substitute or mix different beans for variety in texture and flavor.
- Add Vegetables – Consider adding bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe can balance the meal and create a satisfying dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Cornbread – Sweet, fluffy cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully.
- Rice – White or brown rice can soak up the creamy broth nicely.
- Salad – A fresh green salad adds crunch and brightness to your meal.
- Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas can serve as a fun dipping option alongside the chili.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes topped with chili make for a hearty alternative.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a delicious way to scoop up the chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Preparation is key to a delicious Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough spices can make your chili bland. Always follow the seasoning amounts in the recipe for the best flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Stick to the recommended cooking time for juicy, tender chicken.
- Neglecting ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the taste. Opt for fresh and high-quality products, especially with beans and tomatoes.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can result in uneven texture. Shred the chicken well for a more cohesive chili experience.
- Forgetting about toppings: Skipping toppings can make your chili less exciting. Don’t forget to add garnishes like cilantro, cheese, or sour cream for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
- Duration: This chili freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious dish:
What makes this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe special?
This recipe combines classic chili flavors with creamy goodness from cream cheese, creating a unique and comforting dish.
Can I substitute other proteins in this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?
The spice level depends on the salsa verde you choose. For milder flavors, opt for a mild salsa verde.
Is it possible to make this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or additional beans and omit the chicken broth.
Can I double this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crock pot is large enough and adjust cooking times as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or add more vegetables for a healthier twist. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food!
Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili
Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights. This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and a rich broth infused with spices, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time, simply toss in your ingredients and let the crock pot work its magic. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your choice of toppings for extra flair!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans (15 oz)
- 1 can great northern beans (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis (10 oz)
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 pkg Ranch seasoning packet
- 1/2 onion (chopped)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Chop the onion and gather all canned items.
- Add chicken, beans, tomatoes, salsa verde, onion, ranch seasoning, cumin, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the cream cheese and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.
- Mix well and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
