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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Chopped green onions; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and affordable meal option, this slow cooker chicken chili is perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:43:08.957Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It’s a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable and uses pantry staples
Packed with protein and fiber
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table on chilly nights. It's hearty enough to satisfy the whole family, making it a perfect choice for both casual weeknight dinners and more festive gatherings. Plus, with minimal prep time, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want delicious leftovers, this chili is a versatile option. It can be served alone, over rice, or even as a filling for tacos. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor it to your family's preferences and dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits

One of the standout features of this chicken chili is its nutritional profile. Packed with protein from the chicken and beans, it provides essential nutrients that help keep you full and energized. Additionally, the beans offer a substantial amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

By incorporating ingredients like tomatoes and spices, you're also adding a range of vitamins and antioxidants. This means you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal, but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that support overall health.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken chili is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the beans or add in your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini can be great additions that enhance both flavor and texture. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be tailored to suit your taste buds and what you have on hand.

When it comes to toppings, the options are plentiful. Sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado slices not only add richness but also a delightful creaminess that complements the chili's robust flavors. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect bowl of chili.

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Chopped green onions
Avocado slices

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add the Other Ingredients

Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Stir everything well and serve with your choice of toppings.

This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This slow cooker chicken chili stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. After it cools, transfer the chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish on demand.

When reheating, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. The flavors may even deepen, making the leftovers taste even better!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of fluffy rice. Both options complement the chili's bold flavors while providing a satisfying base. Alternatively, you can make it a fun taco night by serving the chili in taco shells with all your favorite toppings.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving the chili with a fresh green salad. The crisp vegetables will balance the richness of the chili, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Try adding some heat by including jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for sweet bell peppers or omit the chili powder altogether. Each variation can bring a unique twist to this classic dish.

For an even heartier version, consider adding quinoa or brown rice directly into the slow cooker. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes the dish even more filling. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with additional beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with chicken chili?

Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal.