Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili: The Ultimate Recipe

Name: Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed; 14 ounces whole kernel corn, undrained; 1.5 cups chunky salsa; 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning mix; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 ounces cream cheese

Introduction to Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

This delightful Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you want something warm, hearty, and oh-so-comforting. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.

A Personal Story Behind My Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Journey

Growing up, chili was a staple in my home. My family would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a big pot of chili. As I grew older, I wanted to create a version that was not only delicious but also simple to make. This Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili embodies those memories and brings everyone together, just like my family dinners used to.

What Makes This Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the rich and creamy addition of cream cheese, which elevates the chili to a whole new level of deliciousness. The blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder adds depth and warmth, while the black beans and corn provide a wonderful texture. Plus, it’s cooked low and slow in a crockpot, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying.

The Full Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14 oz) can whole kernel corn, undrained
1 1/2 cups chunky salsa
1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
8 ounces cream cheese

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This helps ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
Add the black beans, corn, salsa, ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to the crockpot. Mix well with a spoon to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Put the block of cream cheese on top of the mixture. Cover the crockpot with the lid, and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. The longer you cook, the more tender the chicken will be.
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. This is a great opportunity to get your family involved! Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to combine everything, ensuring that the cream cheese is evenly mixed.
Serve the creamy chicken taco chili on its own or over rice. For an extra touch, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro if desired.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

This chili is versatile and can be customized to fit your taste. Consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. You can also enhance your serving with toppings like diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of lime juice for added freshness. If you want to make it a complete meal, serve it over cooked rice or even with tortilla chips on the side for scooping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Make sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat before serving.

Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! Each serving is approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced meal option. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber from the chicken and beans.

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other favorite veggies to the mix for additional flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 6