Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Make this easy slow cooker white chicken chili with canned white beans and salsa verde for a cozy, protein-packed dinner. Perfect for meal prep, family-friendly weeknights, and comforting Midwestern-style flavors.
This slow cooker white chicken chili recipe is my go-to dinner when I want something hearty, creamy, and hands-off. With just six simple ingredients, it transforms raw chicken breasts and canned white beans into a flavorful, protein-rich chili that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.
The combination of white beans, chicken, and salsa verde creates a creamy chili without heavy cream, making it a slightly lighter but still indulgent comfort food. Topped with shredded cheese and optional tortilla chips, it’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (Great Northern or cannellini)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 jar (16 oz) mild or medium salsa verde
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste (optional, for finishing)
Directions:
Place raw chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of a 5-6 quart slow cooker.
Pour the drained white beans evenly over the chicken.
Add chicken broth and salsa verde, making sure the chicken and beans are mostly submerged.
Sprinkle ground cumin over the top and gently stir the beans and liquid (the chicken can stay mostly on the bottom).
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Let chili sit covered for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly, then serve warm in bowls.
Benefits of This Recipe:
Protein-packed and filling: Chicken and white beans provide lean protein and fiber for lasting energy.
Hands-off cooking: Set it in the slow cooker and let it simmer while you tackle your day.
Family-friendly: Mild, creamy, and customizable for kids and adults.
Meal prep friendly: Makes great leftovers, perfect for school lunches or freezer-friendly meals.
Variations & Tips:
For more heat, use medium or hot salsa verde and swap in pepper Jack cheese.
Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for an ultra-creamy chili.
Add a can of diced green chiles or a chopped onion for extra flavor.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for darker, juicier meat.
For thicker chili, mash some beans against the slow cooker side or cook uncovered on HIGH for 15-20 minutes.
Serve with warm cornbread, buttered saltines, or a simple green salad. Toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or sliced green onions let everyone customize their bowl.
