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 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delicious and economical meal that warms the soul.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:19:04.754Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Just toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the magic!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal
Easily adjustable to suit your taste preferences

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. Whether you're hosting a game night or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this chili offers a warmth that is both comforting and satisfying. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, allowing you to come home to a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.

With its rich flavor profile and nutrient-packed ingredients, this chili is perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Each bowl is loaded with protein and fiber, making it not only filling but also a nutritious choice for any day of the week.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of this chicken chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with more beans or lentils, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Additionally, the toppings can be customized as well. From creamy avocado to zesty lime, the options are endless. This means you can serve it in different ways, keeping it fresh and exciting for each meal.

Easy Preparation and Cleanup

Preparation for this slow cooker chili is a breeze, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. With just a few simple steps, you can have everything prepped and ready to go. The layering technique ensures that all the flavors develop beautifully while cooking, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish.

Cleanup is just as simple, thanks to the nature of slow cooking. Most of the ingredients are cooked in one pot, minimizing the number of dishes you need to wash afterward. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep days.

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite beans or add extra vegetables for a personalized twist!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse the beans under cold water and drain.

Layer the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, place the chicken breasts at the bottom. Layer the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, onion, and garlic on top.

Season and Cook

Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Feel free to add toppings like cilantro or jalapeños for extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your chicken chili, the possibilities are endless. Consider a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. Freshly baked bread is also a perfect companion to soak up the delicious chili. You can even serve it over rice for a heartier meal.

For those looking to add a little zing, don't forget the toppings! Sour cream, shredded cheese, diced green onions, and fresh cilantro all enhance the flavor, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making this recipe perfect for meal prep. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. Just allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

When reheating, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency, as it can thicken when stored.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of beans and chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, making it a filling option for any meal. The addition of tomatoes and spices contributes important vitamins and antioxidants that can help boost your immune system.

Moreover, the fiber from the beans aids in digestion, helping you feel satisfied longer. This makes the chili not just a comforting meal but also a nutritious one, aligning perfectly with health-conscious eating habits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use ground turkey or beef as a substitute for chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.