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Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili - Sweet Mama's Kitchen

We all have those days when we crave something warm, hearty, and delicious. Nothing says comfort food quite like chili. Today, I'm excited to share my slow cooker chicken chili recipe with you. Imagine coming home after a long day to a home that smells fantastic, which is a promise of a delightful meal waiting for you. That’s what this dish delivers.
Chili is versatile, easy to make, and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. This version uses tender chicken, plenty of veggies, and spices, simmered low and slow to develop rich flavors. Let’s explore what makes this recipe a must-try.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • Here's what you’ll need to get started:
  • 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts about 1.5 lbs/680g
  • 1 large green bell pepper, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, minced seeds and ribs removed for less heat
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder reduce to 1 teaspoon if preferred milder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano or Italian herb blend
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, adds subtle smokiness
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a gentle kick

Method
 

  1. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
  1. Obtain your slow cooker and plug it in. This is where the magic happens!
Step 2: Add the Chicken
  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Don’t worry about cutting them up; they will break down beautifully during the cooking process.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
  1. Now, let’s layer in the flavors. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken stock, onion, green bell pepper, black beans, corn, jalapeño, and garlic.
Step 4: Season
  1. Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes on top of the ingredients. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the spices and distribute them evenly.
Step 5: Set the Slow Cooker
  1. Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. Either way, you'll be left with an irresistible concoction.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
  1. Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the chicken back into the pot.
Step 7: Add Cream Cheese
  1. Finally, add the cream cheese to the mix and stir until it’s fully incorporated. This adds a creamy texture that makes the chili even more comforting.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
  1. Ladle the chili into bowls, top with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy!

Notes

To perfect your slow cooker chicken chili, consider these tips:
  • Adjust the Spiciness: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of jalapeño and chili powder.
  • Make It Ahead: This chili can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge—the flavors develop even more overnight!
  • Freeze Leftovers: This is a great dish to freeze. Ladle into airtight containers, label, and freeze. It lasts for about three months.
  • Garnish Smartly: Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or extra jalapeños for added flavor and presentation.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken. This enhances the overall taste.