Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe combines the heartiness of traditional chili with a luscious cream broth, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weeks. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll find it hard to resist this creamy twist on a classic favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Simply add all your ingredients to the crock pot and let it do the work for you.
Flavorful: The combination of spices, beans, and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or tortilla strips.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and chicken, it’s both nutritious and filling.
Great for Leftovers: This chili keeps well in the fridge or can be frozen for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most of your cooking experience, having the right tools is essential. A few key items will make preparing this crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is crucial for hands-free cooking, allowing flavors to meld while you go about your day.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and easy prep of vegetables and meats.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients leads to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 boneless chicken breasts
1 can black beans (15 oz – drained and rinsed)
1 can great northern beans (15 oz – not drained)
1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (10 oz can)
1 cup salsa verde
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
8 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Gather all ingredients on your counter for easy access.
Chop the onion and gather spices.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot

Add all the ingredients to the crock pot except for the cream cheese and cilantro.
Stir gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chili

Cover the crock pot with its lid.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After cooking time is complete, remove chicken breasts from the crock pot.
Shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer.
Return shredded chicken back into the crock pot.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Add cream cheese to the crock pot.
Cover again and cook on low for 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.

Step 6: Serve

Stir well to combine all ingredients before serving.
Dish out portions into bowls, adding your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro or tortilla strips if desired.

How to Serve Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Serving your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this creamy chili that will impress your family and friends.

Toppings

Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy texture and balances the spice.
Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for extra richness.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices complement the chili’s flavors perfectly.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and freshness.

Accompaniments

Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the spicy notes of the chili, making it a comforting choice.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be served on the side for dipping or crumbling over the top.
Rice or Quinoa: Serving over rice or quinoa adds heartiness and helps soak up the delicious broth.

How to Perfect Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

To ensure your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Boneless Chicken Breasts: This ensures even cooking and easy shredding later on.
Rinse Your Beans: Rinsing black beans removes excess sodium and improves texture.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of salsa verde or cumin based on your heat preference.
Let It Simmer Longer: For richer flavors, allow it to cook longer on low heat if time permits.
Mix Well After Adding Cream Cheese: Stir thoroughly after adding cream cheese to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your chili before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy chili.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the rich chili.
Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled veggies offer a smoky flavor that complements the dish well.
Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb option that serves as a great base for the chili while keeping it light.
Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a filling option that’s sure to please.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice make an attractive and tasty side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Shredding Step: Not shredding the chicken can leave it in large chunks, which makes the dish less enjoyable. Be sure to shred after cooking for a more cohesive texture.
Overlooking Seasoning: Forgetting to add enough spices can lead to a bland chili. Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and cumin before serving.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned tomatoes or salsa can affect the flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for the best taste.
Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Cooking too long on high or too short on low can ruin the dish. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal results.
Ignoring Storage Tips: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Ensure you store leftovers in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Make sure to cool the chili completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe that might help you out.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, feel free to use any beans you prefer! Just ensure they complement the flavors of the chili.

How spicy is this crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?

The spice level depends on your choice of salsa verde. You can opt for mild or hot varieties based on your preference.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Turkey or beef works well as substitutes if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with extra beans and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Definitely! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini make great additions for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or incorporating extra ingredients like veggies or different proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!