Today is ‘2025-07-03 12:01:28.207858’, and if you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal, you’ve hit the jackpot. This chicken chili recipe is your crock pot’s best friend, combining ease with mouthwatering results.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, melding flavors beautifully over hours.
- Chicken thighs ensure juicy, tender bites every time.
- A blend of spices offers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
- Beans and corn add texture and make it a hearty meal.
- It’s versatile—serve it as is, over rice, or with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (6 qt or larger)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Can opener
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the beans and corn. This prep work ensures everything goes smoothly when you’re ready to assemble the chili in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, beans, corn, and diced tomatoes on top. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over everything.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is done when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Enjoy the fruits of your (minimal) labor!
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider browning the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the chili’s flavor profile. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot. Lastly, for those who love a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can kick the spice level up a notch.
Recipe Variations
- Swap chicken thighs for breast meat for a leaner option.
- Add sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
- Use different beans like pinto or white beans for variety.
- Incorporate quinoa for an extra protein boost.
- Make it creamy by stirring in cream cheese or sour cream at the end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more beans or lentils to keep it hearty and protein-packed.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cooking on high will reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked and tender before serving.
Summary
This slow cooker chicken chili is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Packed with flavor, protein, and versatility, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.