Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe has everything you love about classic chili but with a delicious cream broth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, providing warmth and comfort in every bite. The blend of flavors and creamy texture makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Creamy Delight: The addition of cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that elevates traditional chili to new heights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is kid-approved, making it an excellent option for family dinners.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crock pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Crock pot: This tool allows you to cook your chili slowly, enhancing the flavors while you go about your day.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface to chop vegetables, ensuring precision in preparation.

Ingredients

To create this delicious crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Protein

• 3 boneless chicken breasts

Beans

• 1 can black beans (15 oz – drained and rinsed)
• 1 can great northern beans (15 oz – not drained)

Vegetables

• 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (10 oz can)
• 1/2 onion (chopped)

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 cup salsa verde
• 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning Packet
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper

Liquid Base

• 1 cup Chicken Broth

Creamy Element

• 8 oz cream cheese

Garnish

• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Follow these simple steps for a warm and comforting bowl of crock pot cream cheese chicken chili.

Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Add all the ingredients to the crock pot except the cream cheese and cilantro. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Cook Your Chili

Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method will help meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

After cooking, remove the chicken from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and then return it to the crock pot.

Step 4: Incorporate 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 5: Serve and Enjoy

Stir everything to combine thoroughly before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes like cilantro or avocado if desired.

This simple yet flavorful crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

How to Serve Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

This Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, serving suggestions can elevate the experience.

With Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Sour Cream: Creamy sour cream balances the spice and richness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra gooeyness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s textures beautifully.

As a Dip

• Tortilla Chips: Use crunchy tortilla chips to scoop up this creamy chili.
• Vegetable Sticks: Carrot and celery sticks provide a fresh crunch alongside the creamy flavors.

In a Bowl

• Over Rice: Serve the chili over cooked rice for a hearty meal.
• With Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread for a classic combination that enhances the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

To make this already delicious dish even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Spices: Add more cumin or chili powder for extra warmth and depth in flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and onion instead of dried to enhance aroma and taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the chicken broth slightly.
• Mix Beans Varieties: Experiment with different beans like kidney beans or pinto beans for variety.
• Add Veggies: Include bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spicy flavors of the chili perfectly.
2. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as an excellent base that soaks up all the delicious broth.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and are perfect for dipping into your chili.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing, melted cheese between toasted bread is always a hit!
6. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you enjoy the best results from your Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the broth: Not using chicken broth can lead to a dry chili. Always add enough liquid for the right consistency.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Monitor your cooking time closely based on your crock pot setting.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting spices like cumin and salt can make your chili bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Using cold cream cheese: Adding cold cream cheese can prevent it from melting smoothly. Allow it to sit at room temperature before mixing.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Skipping the shredding step means you miss out on flavor distribution. Make sure to shred the chicken well to mix with other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 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, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between heats until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?

This recipe combines tender chicken with beans, tomatoes, and cream cheese for a creamy, flavorful dish that cooks slowly in a crock pot.

Can I customize my Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?

Absolutely! You can add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn, or swap beans based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, cook uncovered for the last hour or add cornstarch mixed with water to achieve desired thickness.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

What toppings work well with this chili?

Top with cilantro, avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Crock pot cream cheese chicken chili recipe is not only easy but also incredibly flavorful. Its creamy texture combined with hearty ingredients makes it perfect for cozy meals. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or toppings to make it your own!