Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is a delightful twist on classic chili that features a creamy broth. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family dinners, game nights, or cozy gatherings. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful spices creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, making dinner stress-free.
• Creamy Flavor – The addition of cream cheese gives this chili a rich and comforting texture that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile Ingredients – You can easily swap in your favorite beans or add extra veggies to customize this recipe to your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this chili fits right in.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein and fiber, it keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time without constant supervision.
• Cutting board – A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Knife – A sharp knife ensures quick and clean cuts, making prep work easier and safer.

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

Seasoning Ingredients

• 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning Packet
• 1/2 onion (chopped)
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper

Broth and Cream Ingredients

• 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 the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the onion and rinse the black beans. It’s important to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the boneless chicken breasts.
2. Pour in the black beans, great northern beans, diced tomatoes with green chilis, and salsa verde.
3. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning packet, chopped onion, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

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 until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooking time is up:
1. Remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot.
2. Shred them using two forks.
3. Return the shredded chicken back to the crock pot.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Add in the cream cheese:
* Cover again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.

Step 6: Stir and Serve

Finally:
* Stir everything to combine well before serving.
* Garnish with chopped cilantro or any desired toppings. Enjoy your hearty bowl of chili!

How to Serve Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili is a comforting dish that pairs well with various toppings and sides. Elevate your meal with a few simple serving suggestions to enhance the flavors and presentation.

Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and adds creaminess.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s texture and taste.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish with a zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a classic pairing with chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside the chili.
• Rice: A bowl of white or brown rice can soak up the delicious broth.

How to Perfect Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

To make your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust spices like cumin or add chili powder to enhance flavor depth.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion can elevate the overall taste versus dried alternatives.
• Experiment with beans: Try different bean varieties, such as kidney or pinto beans, for varied textures and flavors.
• Cook longer for deeper flavor: If time permits, cooking on low for 8 hours allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add veggies: Include bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Serving your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili with complementary side dishes can create a wholesome meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet and savory bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a delightful freshness that enhances every bite of chili.
3. Steamed Rice: Simple steamed rice absorbs the flavorful broth, making it more filling.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the softness of the chili.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate while balancing flavors.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for spooning over some delicious chili.
7. Tortilla Salad: Crisp tortilla salad adds crunch and a refreshing element to your meal.
8. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale offers a nutritious side that complements the chili beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making this delicious dish. Here are some tips:

• Skipping the Shredding Step: Not shredding the chicken after cooking can lead to uneven texture in your chili. Make sure to shred the chicken for better distribution of flavors.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality canned beans or tomatoes can impact the overall taste. Choose high-quality ingredients for a more flavorful dish.

• Overcooking the Cream Cheese: Cooking cream cheese too long can cause it to separate. Add it towards the end of the cooking process for a creamy result.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor; always taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This ensures your chili is perfectly seasoned.

• Not Considering Toppings: Forgetting toppings like cilantro or avocado can diminish your chili’s appeal. Garnish with fresh herbs and toppings for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe:

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute with any beans you prefer or have on hand, such as kidney or pinto beans.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa verde in your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just ensure to increase the cooking time by an hour on low heat.

What toppings pair well with this chili?

Popular options include chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado to enhance flavors.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe serves about six people, perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

Final Thoughts

This Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is not only easy but also rich and satisfying. Its creamy broth and tender chicken make it versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or toppings for a personalized touch that fits your taste buds!