Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is a warm, creamy, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, zesty seasonings, and hearty beans and corn. With minimal prep time, this easy-to-make chili cooks slowly in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. The addition of cream cheese gives the chili a rich and velvety texture, making it a family favorite for any time of year.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 can corn, undrained
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 package ranch dressing mix
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 package cream cheese
• 2 chicken breasts

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add all the remaining ingredients on top of the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
4. Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it using two forks and mix everything together before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
• Total Time: 4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for more vegetables in the chili.
• Spicy kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the chili a spicy kick.
• Use ground chicken or turkey: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a different texture.
• Creamy version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for an even creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Add a little broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so if using frozen chicken.
2. Can I make this chili ahead of time? Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can substitute black beans with other beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or even white beans.
4. How can I make this chili spicier? Add some diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring more heat to the dish.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this chili.
6. How can I thicken the chili? If the chili is too thin, you can simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to thicken it up, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to help thicken the liquid.
7. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen? Yes, fresh chicken works perfectly in this recipe and cooks faster than frozen chicken.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the chili for up to 2-3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
9. Can I add cheese to this recipe? Yes, shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese would be a great addition when serving the chili for extra flavor.
10. What can I serve with this chili? Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is a hassle-free, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy a creamy, hearty chili that’s sure to become a regular in your crockpot recipe rotation.

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