This cozy Healthy White Chicken Chili is the perfect nourishing meal to warm you up. It’s high in protein and fiber, naturally gluten-free, and can be made dairy-free with a few easy swaps. Filled with tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, sweet corn, green chiles, and a flavorful blend of spices—this chili is hearty, comforting, and totally crave-worthy.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a game day gathering, or just need a hands-off weeknight dinner, this slow cooker white chicken chili is a total winner. And if you’re short on time, don’t worry—I’ve included Instant Pot and stovetop instructions too!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili
- ✅ Packed with lean protein and fiber
- ✅ Simple to make—just set it and forget it
- ✅ Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free
- ✅ Freezer-friendly and meal prep approved
- ✅ Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor
- ✅ Great for family dinners or feeding a crowd
If you’re a fan of cozy soups like chicken tortilla soup or zuppa toscana, you’ll definitely want to add this chili to your rotation.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this nourishing chili (see recipe card below for full measurements):
- Olive oil – for sautéing the veggies
- Yellow onion – sweet or white onion both work
- Poblano peppers – mild and earthy with that classic Southwest flavor
- Garlic – always a must for great chili
- Chicken broth – or use bone broth for extra nutrients
- White beans – like cannellini, for fiber and texture
- Corn – canned or frozen for a touch of sweetness
- Diced green chiles – add depth without too much heat
- Spices – oregano, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt & pepper
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – both work well
- Coconut milk or heavy cream – to make it creamy
- Cream cheese – optional, adds richness (dairy-free options work great)
🥣 How to Make White Chicken Chili in the Crockpot
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and poblano peppers until soft (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Add the chicken broth, white beans, corn, diced green chiles, and spices. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Nestle the raw chicken into the mixture, making sure it’s mostly covered by the broth.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
Add the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and cream cheese if using. Stir until creamy and smooth. Add more broth as needed to adjust the consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
🍲 Instant Pot Instructions
- Add all ingredients (except cream/cream cheese) to the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes.
- Quick release the pressure. Remove and shred the chicken, then return to the pot.
- Stir in cream and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
🔥 Stovetop Instructions
- In a large stockpot, sauté onion, pepper, and garlic.
- Add broth, beans, corn, chiles, spices, and chicken. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked.
- Shred chicken, return to the pot, and stir in cream and cream cheese.
🌶️ Recipe Tips & Variations
- Want it spicier? Use hot green chiles, add a pinch of cayenne, or stir in red pepper flakes.
- Thicker chili? Stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end or mash some of the beans.
- Dairy-free version: Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Low-carb version: Omit the corn or reduce the beans.
🧊 How to Store & Freeze
To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To Freeze (After Cooking):
Let chili cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze up to 3 months.
To Freeze (Before Cooking):
Combine all ingredients (except cream/cream cheese) in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze flat. Thaw overnight before cooking in the slow cooker.
To Reheat:
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
🍽️ Topping Ideas
Top your bowl with any of these for extra flavor and texture:
- Fresh lime juice
- Diced avocado
- Jalapeño slices
- Chopped cilantro
- Tortilla strips or crushed chips
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar
🥄 More Healthy Chili Recipes
- Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
- Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Vegetarian White Bean Chili
- Beanless Paleo Chili
- Slow Cooker Steak Chili