Bowl of creamy white chicken chili with toppings like cilantro and tortilla strips
Looking for a recipe that’s both incredibly delicious and wonderfully easy to make? This creamy White Chicken Chili Crock Pot Pioneer Woman style is your answer! Inspired by the hearty, comforting meals that Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond is famous for, this slow cooker chili is destined to become a family favorite. Imagine tender chicken simmered to perfection in a creamy, flavorful broth with beans, corn, and just the right amount of spice. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a contest-winning caliber recipe made simple for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget complicated dinners – this crock pot white chicken chili is practically hands-off, letting your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the aroma and look forward to a satisfying, warm meal.
Close-up of white chicken chili in a bowl, showcasing its creamy texture and toppings
Why This Crock Pot White Chicken Chili Recipe Works
This white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman inspired recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Effortless Slow Cooker Magic: Just dump the ingredients into your crock pot, set it, and forget it! The slow cooker method ensures the chicken becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Creamy Dreamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese and half-and-half at the end creates a luxuriously creamy texture that elevates this chili above the rest.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: A blend of spices, including cumin, oregano, and chili powder, along with diced green chiles, provides a warm, savory flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy – making it family-friendly.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize this recipe to your liking! Adjust the heat level, swap proteins, or add extra veggies – the possibilities are endless.
- Make-Ahead Meal Champion: This chili is perfect for meal prepping! It tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully, making it a lifesaver for busy schedules.
Ingredients for Your Pioneer Woman Inspired White Chicken Chili
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman style recipe:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz low sodium chicken broth
- 2 (15 oz) cans great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¾ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup half-and-half
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sliced avocados
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, minced
- Tortilla strips
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese
Ingredients for white chicken chili in a slow cooker before cooking
How to Make Crock Pot White Chicken Chili: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman style:
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Top the chicken with diced onion, minced garlic, great Northern beans, green chiles, corn, chicken broth, and cilantro. Stir everything together.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them in a large mixing bowl. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Creamy Finish: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the softened cream cheese and half-and-half. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the chili is creamy and slightly thickened. For an extra smooth texture, you can whisk the softened cream cheese with a ladle of hot chili in a separate bowl before adding it back to the crock pot.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir well and serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Bowl of white chicken chili with various toppings like jalapenos, sour cream, and tortilla strips
Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili Crock Pot Experience
- Control the Heat: Pay attention to the heat level of your diced green chiles. Mild chiles offer flavor without much spice, while hot chiles will significantly increase the chili’s spiciness. You can also add a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: While slow cooking is forgiving, overcooked chicken can become dry. Check the chicken for doneness around the 7-hour mark on low, or 3 hours on high. It should shred easily with a fork.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Toppings are where you can really personalize your white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman experience! Set up a topping bar and let everyone customize their bowls.
- Thicken it Up (If Needed): If you prefer a thicker chili, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of milk, half-and-half, chicken broth, or water until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the chili and cook until thickened to your desired consistency.
Variations to Make It Your Own
- Turkey Chili: Swap out the chicken for shredded cooked turkey for a delicious variation, perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Add Black Beans: For extra protein and fiber, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans.
- Spice it Up: For those who love heat, use hot diced green chiles, add diced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cream cheese and half-and-half for a non-dairy version. The chili will still be flavorful and satisfying.
Making Ahead and Storing Your Crock Pot White Chicken Chili
This white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman recipe is an excellent make-ahead meal.
- Freezing: Let the chili cool completely after step 4 (before adding cream cheese and half-and-half). Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. When reheating, add the cream cheese and half-and-half as directed in step 5.
- Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
Spoonful of creamy white chicken chili being lifted from a bowl
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing game day dish, or a potluck contribution, this white chicken chili crock pot Pioneer Woman inspired recipe is a winner. Serve it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete and satisfying meal. Its creamy texture and comforting flavors are sure to be a hit with everyone! So, gather your ingredients, dust off your crock pot, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of the best white chicken chili you’ve ever tasted!
