Chicken Chili Crockpot

Name: Chicken Chili Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
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 (14.5 oz diced tomatoes); 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Get ready to warm up your evenings with this savory chicken chili crockpot recipe! Perfectly seasoned with spices and packed with tender chicken, beans, and vegetables, this dish is a wholesome option for busy days. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the crockpot do the magic. Your family will love the rich flavors and comforting aroma that fills your home!

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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 40g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. This is based on one person serving and provides a balanced meal option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Prepare and dice the onion and garlic.
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, and corn.
Add the diced tomatoes along with their juice.
Pour the chicken broth into the pot.
Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the top.
Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix back into the chili.

Alternative Ingredients

If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with cubed tempeh or additional beans for protein. You can also swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Serving and Pairings

This chicken chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s essential for flavor.
Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry.
Make sure to drain and rinse the beans to reduce sodium.
Don’t leave out the garlic; it adds depth to the chili.
Be careful not to add too much liquid; it can make the chili soupy.
Don’t forget to shred the chicken for better texture.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Helpful Tips

Prep ingredients the night before for a quick start in the morning.
Use a liner for easy cleanup of the crockpot.
Add fresh lime juice just before serving for brightness.
Garnish with avocado slices for added creaminess.
Experiment with different beans for varied textures.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot. Just ensure it cooks for the full duration to reach a safe temperature.

Is it possible to make this chili spicy?

Absolutely! Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a spicy chili powder to increase the heat level.

Can I make chicken chili ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.

How do I thicken the chili?

To thicken the chili, you can mash some beans or add a cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking.

Conclusion

This chicken chili crockpot recipe is a delightful and uncomplicated dish that delivers comfort and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the convenience of the crockpot and the satisfaction of a wholesome meal!