Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Featured in Family-Favorite Main Dishes.

Combine ingredients in slow cooker except cream cheese, cook 7 hours on low, shred chicken, add cream cheese. Serves 10. Rated 4.8/5 from 104 reviews.
Rehan Magic House Recipes
Recipe by Reham
Updated on Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:39:27 GMT
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Recipe Save this recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Recipe | magichouserecipes.com

On busy days when you need dinner to cook itself, this slow cooker chicken chili becomes your kitchen hero. Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, it transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal while you go about your day. The magic happens as tender chicken slowly simmers with southwestern spices, creating a chili that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant.

My journey with this recipe began during a particularly hectic season when I needed reliable, delicious meals that could cook while I worked. After many iterations, I discovered that cream cheese added at the end creates that perfect, velvety texture that makes this chili extraordinary.

Essential Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken breasts: Become perfectly tender and shreddable
  • Black beans and corn: Add southwestern flair and hearty texture
  • Fresh jalapeño: Provides gentle heat that builds slowly
  • Cream cheese: Transforms the broth into silky richness
  • Classic chili spices: Create depth and warmth
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Creating Your Chili

Morning Setup:
Layer ingredients with aromatics at the bottom, chicken on top
Spice Balance:
Combine chili powder, cumin, and oregano for classic flavor profile
Slow Magic:
Let ingredients meld undisturbed for 6-8 hours
Chicken Transformation:
Shred hot chicken and return to pot for maximum flavor absorption
Finishing Touch:
Add cream cheese in small pieces, stirring until fully melted

Through years of making this chili, I've learned that patience is key. The slow cooking process allows flavors to develop and meld in a way that quick cooking simply can't match. It's become my go-to recipe for busy days when I want to come home to something special.

Chili Science

The magic happens as chicken juices combine with tomatoes and spices. Cream cheese binds flavors while tempering heat, creating luxurious texture.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with warm cornbread or create a topping bar with avocado, lime, and cilantro. Perfect over baked potatoes or mixed with pasta.

Creative Adaptations

Transform leftovers into enchilada filling or chili mac. Add extra veggies like bell peppers for nutritional boost.

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Storage Success

Cool completely before refrigerating. Freeze in portions for easy meals. Store toppings separately for freshness.

This chili has become my signature comfort food for sharing. The way it fills a home with warmth and brings people together makes every batch special.

Remember, slow cooking creates deep flavors that turn simple ingredients into extraordinary meals. Let your slow cooker work while you create memories.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I make this on the stove?
Yes, chop chicken, cook with vegetables first, then add remaining ingredients. Ready in about 35 minutes.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with 3 cups diced sweet potato and add extra can of beans.
→ Why warm the cream cheese?
Room temperature or slightly warmed cream cheese melts more easily into hot chili.
→ Can I adjust the spice level?
Reduce chili powder to 1 teaspoon for milder chili, or remove jalapeño seeds and ribs.

Creamy Chicken Chili

A set-it-and-forget-it creamy chicken chili made in the slow cooker - mildly spiced and perfect for customizing.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
480 Minutes
Total Time
490 Minutes
Recipe by: Reham

Recipe Type: Main Courses

Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 10 Servings

Dietary Notes: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Base Proteins

01 2 large skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs/680g)

→ Vegetables and Beans

02 2 (14.5-ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes, drained
03 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
04 1 cup diced yellow onion
05 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
06 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
07 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
08 1 jalapeño, minced
09 3 garlic cloves, minced

→ Liquids and Seasonings

10 1 cup chicken broth
11 2 teaspoons each: dried oregano, chili powder
12 1 tablespoon ground cumin
13 1 teaspoon salt

→ Finishing

14 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Add all ingredients except cream cheese to 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Step 02

Cover and cook on low 7 hours or high 3 hours.

Step 03

Remove chicken, shred with forks, return to cooker. Add cream cheese and stir until melted.

Step 04

Cook additional 10-15 minutes. Serve with desired toppings.

Recipe Notes

  1. A creamy, mildly spiced slow cooker chicken chili that's easy to customize and freezer-friendly.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • 6-quart or larger slow cooker
  • Forks for shredding

Allergy Information

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Dairy (cream cheese)