Creamy Chicken Chili Recipe

Warm, comforting, and brimming with flavor, this Creamy Chicken Chili is the epitome of a satisfying fall meal. Packed with hearty ingredients and a rich, creamy twist, it’s an easy-to-make dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for cozy lunches or dinners, this recipe brings together the goodness of chicken, beans, and a harmonious blend of spices. The addition of cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess that takes this chili to the next level.

Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of comfort in every bite. Gather your loved ones, ladle out generous portions, and relish the warmth of this creamy fall delight.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of chicken breast
• 2 cans Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies), undrained
• 2 cans corn, undrained
• 2 cans pinto beans, drained & rinsed
• 2 cans black beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 packets ranch seasoning
• 16 ounces cream cheese (2 bricks)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Dice the onion.
   • Drain and rinse the pinto and black beans.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large crockpot, add the chicken breasts, undrained Rotel, undrained corn, drained and rinsed pinto beans, drained and rinsed black beans, diced onion, and chicken broth.
3. Seasoning:
   • Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning over the ingredients in the crockpot.
4. Creamy Element:
   • Place the cream cheese blocks on top of the other ingredients in the crockpot.
5. Cooking:
   • Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the flavors should meld together.
6. Shredding Chicken:
   • Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
7. Creamy Finish:
   • Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring well to incorporate the cream cheese and shredded chicken throughout the chili.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the creamy chicken chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped green onions.
9. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Chicken Chili!

Here are some tips to make your Creamy Chicken Chili even more delicious:

1. Sear the Chicken: Before placing the chicken in the crockpot, you can quickly sear it in a hot pan with a bit of oil. This step adds extra flavor by caramelizing the chicken’s surface.
2. Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the spice levels to your preference. If you like it spicier, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using hot Rotel instead of the mild version.
3. Fresh Ingredients: While canned ingredients are convenient, consider using fresh corn or tomatoes when they’re in season for a burst of freshness.
4. Toppings: Customize your toppings based on personal preferences. Chopped cilantro, diced avocado, grated cheese, or a squeeze of lime can enhance the flavors.
5. Cream Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cream cheese, such as flavored ones like jalapeño or herb-infused, for an extra layer of taste.
6. Broth Choices: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to have better control over the dish’s saltiness, especially if you’re using seasoned ranch packets.
7. Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional content by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the mix. This not only adds color but also extra crunch and nutrients.
8. Fresh Lime Juice: Consider squeezing fresh lime juice into the chili just before serving to add a zesty kick.
9. Serve with Cornbread: Accompany your Chicken Chili with a side of warm cornbread. The combination is classic and incredibly satisfying.
10. Thicken or Thin: If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chili cook uncovered for the last hour. If you like it soupier, add a bit more chicken broth.
11. Make-Ahead: Prepare the ingredients the night before, so in the morning, you can quickly assemble everything in the crockpot for a hassle-free meal.
12. Leftover Ideas: Use any leftovers creatively. This chili can be a great filling for tacos, burritos, or a topping for baked potatoes.

How Long to Cook Creamy Chicken Chili