Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Name: Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:25:05.337Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food. It's not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, making every bite a delight.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors from spices that develop during slow cooking
Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Easy to prepare and clean up with just one pot

      

The Comfort of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a method that not only saves time but also enhances the flavors of your dish. The extended cooking time allows the spices and ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying taste. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a prime example of how slow cooking can transform simple ingredients into a hearty meal. The low and slow process ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.

Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks. This is especially beneficial for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests. Simply prepare the ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. The result is a delicious and aromatic chili that will have everyone gathering around the table.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Chili

This chicken chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Combined with beans, which are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, this dish becomes a balanced meal that can keep you feeling full and satisfied. The addition of corn and tomatoes adds vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded diet.

Moreover, spices like chili powder and cumin not only enhance the flavor but also offer health benefits. Chili powder can boost metabolism, while cumin has been linked to improved digestion. By incorporating a variety of ingredients, this chili provides a wonderful mix of textures and flavors while supporting your overall health.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the best aspects of making chili is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. For those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, a touch of brown sugar or diced bell peppers can balance the heat nicely.

Additionally, feel free to swap out the beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand. White beans, pinto beans, or even lentils can work well in this recipe. The key is to experiment and find the combination that your family loves the most. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is just a starting point for your culinary creativity!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Chili

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Mix all ingredients well in the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the black and kidney beans.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, layer the chicken breasts, beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the chili. Stir well to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly chicken chili!

Tips for Perfect Chili

To ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and depth to the dish. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the additional effort is worth it for the enhanced taste.

Another tip is to adjust the consistency of your chili. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, if you like it brothier, simply add more chicken broth or water according to your preference.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover chicken chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution. Just reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chili. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chili experience, consider serving it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. These sides complement the chili perfectly and add a delightful crunch. You can also set up a toppings bar with options like diced avocados, jalapeños, and different types of cheese to allow everyone to customize their bowls.

For a refreshing contrast, a simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette can also be a great addition. This combination not only rounds out the meal but also provides a variety of flavors and textures that make dining more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this chili are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I make this chili on the stove instead?

Absolutely! Just simmer all the ingredients in a pot for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein like lentils for a vegetarian option.