Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that combines flavors and ingredients seamlessly while cooking to perfection. This hearty chili is easy to prepare and ideal for those busy days when you want a warm meal waiting for you without the fuss.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili. Firstly, it’s a one-pot meal that cuts down on dishes and cleanup time, making it perfect for busy families or anyone looking to relax at home. This dish is loaded with protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and beans, providing a filling option that will keep you satisfied.
Another great reason to make this chili is its adaptability. You can easily customize the flavors to match your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a mild flavor or want to spice it up, the choice is yours! And let’s not forget how wonderfully creamy and comforting this recipe is, bringing warmth to even the coldest of days.
Lastly, making this Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is a time-saver. Once you add all the ingredients and set the timer, you can go about your day without a second thought, knowing that a delicious meal will be waiting for you when you return.
How to Make Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
Making Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is as simple as gathering your ingredients and following a few straightforward steps. Let’s break it down!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, cream cheese, taco seasoning, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes on top.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy your creamy chili!
Pro Tips for Success with Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
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Don’t skip the cream cheese: It adds that wonderful creaminess that makes this chili truly special. Make sure to stir well after shredding the chicken to incorporate it fully.
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Use frozen chicken: If you’re in a pinch for time, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time a bit if needed.
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Adjust the seasoning: Taste your chili before serving! You may want to add more taco seasoning based on your flavor preference.
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Avoid overcooking: While it’s hard to overcook in a crockpot, keep an eye on the time to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy.
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Make it spicy: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper before cooking!
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Serving size: This recipe is easily scalable. If you need more, just multiply the ingredients!
Flavor Variations for Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
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Spicy Southwest Twist: Add extra chilies or swap in diced tomatoes with habaneros to give your chili a spicy kick.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese before serving for an extra layer of creaminess, or use a cheese blend to create varied flavor dimensions.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. Sprinkle right before serving for the best flavor.
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Coconut Cream: To create a unique flavor profile, mix in a little coconut cream along with the cream cheese for a slight sweetness and rich texture.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is versatile and pairs well with numerous sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
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Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is the perfect companion to soak up that delicious chili.
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Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful texture contrast.
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Rice: Over a bed of rice can make for a more filling meal.
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Toppings Galore: Top with your favorites like sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocados, or fresh cilantro.
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Side Salad: A refreshing salad can balance the richness of the chili.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
To store your delicious Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili, first allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency if it thickens.
For longer storage, freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then warm it in the microwave or on the stove.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|——————-|——–|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen chicken might need an extra hour on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Is there a way to make this chili lower in fat?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular cream cheese with a lower-fat version, or use Greek yogurt as a replacement just before serving for a creamy texture.
Can this recipe be made on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
Yes! To make this on the stovetop, sauté the onions and spices first, add the remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and allow to cook for about 20-30 minutes, then shred the chicken, stir, and serve.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. You can also add more veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and squash for added flavor and nutrition.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level mainly depends on the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chiles you use. For a milder flavor, opt for mild taco seasoning and diced tomatoes without any added heat. Conversely, use spicier varieties if you enjoy the heat.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is a versatile and delicious meal that anyone can make, regardless of cooking skill. It combines wholesome ingredients with simplicity, providing a satisfying dish your family will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for meal prep ideas, or simply searching for a comforting dish, this chili fits the bill perfectly. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your crockpot work its magic! Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite!
Print
Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A hearty chili featuring chicken, beans, and cream cheese, perfect for busy days and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, cream cheese, taco seasoning, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes on top.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 360-480 minutes or on high for 180-240 minutes.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference for spice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
