Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is a fantastic choice for any gathering or a cozy night in. This dish combines the comforting flavors of traditional chili with a creamy, rich broth that elevates it to another level. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or meal prepping, this chili offers incredible flavor and simplicity.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it do the work.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of cream cheese and spices creates a rich, comforting flavor thatβs hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or topped with your favorite garnishes like cilantro or avocado.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to have ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
- Family Approved: A dish everyone will love, making it perfect for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe, youβll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is key for achieving tender chicken and melding all the flavors beautifully over time.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps you chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your ingredients, making prep quick and easy.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans (15 oz β drained and rinsed)
- 1 can great northern beans (15 oz β not drained)
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (10 oz can)
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning Packet
- 1/2 onion (chopped)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 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 chopping the onion and gathering all your ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
- Add all the ingredients into the slow cooker except for the cream cheese and cilantro.
Step 3: Cook the Chili
- Cover the crock pot with a lid.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
- After cooking, take out the chicken breasts.
- Shred them using two forks, then return shredded chicken back into the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream Cheese
- Add in the cream cheese.
- Cover again and cook on low for another 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.
Step 6: Final Stir and Serve
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings like chopped cilantro or avocado.
How to Serve Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether youβre hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro β Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the creaminess of the chili.
- Sour Cream β A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the warm chili.
- Shredded Cheese β Sprinkle some cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for an extra layer of richness.
- Avocado Slices β Creamy avocado slices offer a buttery texture and enhance the overall taste.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread β Pair with warm cornbread for a comforting side that soaks up the chiliβs flavors.
- Tortilla Chips β Crunchy chips add a nice texture and are perfect for dipping into the chili.
- Rice β Serve over cooked rice to create a hearty meal thatβs filling and satisfying.
- Salad β A refreshing green salad balances out the richness of the chili.
How to Perfect Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
To make the most of your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe, consider these helpful tips. Theyβll ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Choose Quality Chicken β Using fresh, boneless chicken breasts will yield tender and juicy meat.
- Adjust Spices to Taste β Feel free to customize the spice levels by adding more cumin or garlic based on your preference.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth β Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Extra Veggies β Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture in your chili.
Best Side Dishes for Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
Pairing side dishes with your crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Garlic Bread β Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up leftover chili.
- Coleslaw β A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy chili.
- Baked Potatoes β Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base for your chili and toppings.
- Mexican Rice β Flavored rice complements the spices in the chili and adds substance to your plate.
- Grilled Vegetables β Charred veggies bring smokiness and color, making them an appealing side option.
- Quesadillas β Cheesy quesadillas can be filled with beans and cheese, providing an easy-to-eat side that pairs well with the chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid common pitfalls when making this delicious Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe to ensure the best results.
- Ignoring the cooking time: Make sure to cook the chili for the recommended duration. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows flavors to develop fully, while high for 3-4 hours can work in a pinch.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: After removing the chicken, shred it thoroughly before returning it to the pot. This ensures that every bite is infused with flavor.
- Skipping the cream cheese addition: Adding cream cheese at the right time is crucial. Wait until after shredding the chicken to add it; this helps achieve a creamy texture throughout.
- Overlooking seasoning adjustments: Taste your chili before serving! If you prefer more spice or flavor, feel free to adjust seasonings like cumin and salt according to your preference.
- Using unqualified containers for storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers. This preserves freshness and prevents contamination, making your next meal just as enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- Can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Best if consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if itβs too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they are fully cooked by increasing your cooking time slightly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, consider including diced jalapeΓ±os or using spicy salsa verde. Adjust according to your taste!
What toppings go well with this chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or extra cilantro for added flavor.
Can I make this crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or additional beans like kidney beans and increase vegetable broth accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite beans or spices for a personalized touch. Whether youβre serving it on a chilly night or preparing it ahead for meal prep, itβs bound to be a hit at any table. Give it a try today!

Crock Pot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 57 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Enjoy a comforting bowl of crock pot cream cheese chicken chili that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and zesty spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping, making it a family favorite you can rely on. Simply toss in your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the magic, and savor a deliciously satisfying dish that warms both body and soul. Top it with fresh cilantro or creamy avocado for an extra touch of flavor!
Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans (15 oz β drained and rinsed)
- 1 can great northern beans (15 oz β not drained)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis (10 oz)
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 package ranch seasoning packet
- Β½ onion (chopped)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Β½ cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Chop the onion and gather all ingredients.
- Place all ingredients into the slow cooker except for cream cheese and cilantro.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it using two forks, then return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add cream cheese and cover again; cook on low for another 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes until melted.
- Stir well and serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6β8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or zucchini into the mix. Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeΓ±os if you prefer a kick! This recipe is also adaptable; substitute chicken with cubed tofu or additional beans for a vegetarian option.








