Name: Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488852H24M49S
Total time: PT-488852H24M49S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn (frozen, canned, or fresh); 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel-style); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Optional toppings: green onions, jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-creamy and cheesy for the ultimate comfort food
Easy to make with minimal prep—just toss everything in the crockpot
Full of hearty, protein-rich ingredients
Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
Delicious with your favorite chili toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
White beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
Corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
Diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel-style)
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Chili powder
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: green onions, jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips

Directions

Add chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and all spices to the crockpot.
Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it and shred with two forks.
Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and well incorporated.
Let cook for another 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: 6–8 hours (mostly hands-off)

Variations

Add black beans or pinto beans for extra heartiness
Use a Mexican cheese blend or pepper jack for added flavor
Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce
Stir in cooked rice or quinoa to stretch the meal further
Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to speed up the process

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally
Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through
Freeze in sealed containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, just add it during the last hour of cooking or once you’re ready to stir in the cheese.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can increase or reduce the heat to your liking with additional chiles or hot sauce.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

Yes, you can leave it out or substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

What kind of cheese melts best in this chili?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work great for a creamy, melty texture.

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

Yes, but ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before shredding the chicken.

How do I thicken the chili?

Let it cook uncovered for a bit or mash some of the beans to naturally thicken the soup.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer everything in a large pot for 30–40 minutes, then stir in the cheese and cream cheese at the end.

What goes well with this cheesy chicken chili?

Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives, or omit cheese entirely.

Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Chili is the ultimate blend of creamy, cheesy comfort and bold chili flavor. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking up on leftovers, this slow cooker favorite is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.