Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

While canned beans are convenient for this recipe, you can use dried beans if you prefer. You'll need to cook them separately first until they're almost tender, then add them to the crockpot. Using uncooked dried beans directly in the crockpot won't work as they need more liquid and cooking time than this recipe provides.

My family doesn't like spicy food. How can I make this milder?

This recipe is already relatively mild, but to reduce the heat further, use mild Rotel tomatoes or substitute regular diced tomatoes. You can also use less taco seasoning and add more at the end if needed.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?

Absolutely! Place all ingredients in your Instant Pot, seal, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. Shred the chicken and serve as usual.

Is this chili gluten-free?

It can be! Check your seasoning packets carefully, as some brands contain gluten. Look for packets specifically labeled gluten-free, or make your own seasoning blends from scratch using individual spices.

Crockpot White Chicken Chili Recipe

Name: Crockpot White Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-485006H44M36S
Total time: PT-485006H44M36S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 (16 oz) cans Bush’s White Chili Beans, do not drain; 1 (10 oz) can Rotel, do not drain; 1 (1.25 oz) packet reduced-sodium taco seasoning; 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix; 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Lime wedges; Sour cream; Cilantro

This incredibly comforting Crockpot White Chicken Chili is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients tossed into your slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty, flavor-packed meal that practically makes itself. The tender shredded chicken mingles with creamy white beans in a zesty broth that’s seasoned to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and fills your family with satisfaction!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply dump the ingredients in your crockpot, turn it on, and walk away. Dinner practically cooks itself!
Rich, Complex Flavor: The combination of taco seasoning, ranch mix, and Rotel creates layers of flavor that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly: This chili has just the right balance of flavor and spice that appeals to both adults and kids.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite toppings, and perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

White Chili Beans: The foundation of our chili, providing creaminess and protein. Don’t drain them – the liquid adds body and flavor to the broth.
Rotel Tomatoes: These canned tomatoes with green chilies bring a perfect touch of acidity and heat. Again, keep that flavorful liquid!
Taco Seasoning: I prefer reduced-sodium versions so you can control the salt level. This seasoning blend adds authentic Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: The secret ingredient that makes this chili special! It adds a creamy, herbaceous quality that perfectly complements the taco spices.
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Both work beautifully in this recipe. Thighs tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker and stay juicier, but breasts work great too.
Toppings: Fresh lime wedges, sour cream, and cilantro aren’t just garnishes – they transform this dish with brightness, creaminess, and fresh herbal notes.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious ways to make this recipe your own:

Spice Level: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne for extra heat, or use mild Rotel if you prefer a gentler flavor.
Bean Varieties: Try mixing in a can of black beans or pinto beans for color contrast and textural variety.
Corn Addition: Toss in a cup of frozen corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sweet pop of color and flavor.
Creamy Version: Stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese or a cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes for an ultra-rich chili.

How to Make Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the undrained white chili beans, undrained Rotel, taco seasoning packet, and ranch seasoning packet to your crockpot. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top and give everything a good stir to make sure the seasonings are distributed.

Step 2: Set It and Forget It

Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook for 3-4 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility – choose the timing that works best for your schedule.

Step 3: Shred and Serve

Once the chicken is tender enough to shred easily with two forks, pull it apart right in the crockpot. Stir everything together so the chicken distributes evenly throughout the chili. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Layering Ingredients: Place the chicken on top of the beans rather than on the bottom of the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
Shredding Technique: For perfect shredding, remove the chicken to a plate or cutting board, shred it with two forks, then return it to the chili and stir.
Seasoning Check: After shredding the chicken and stirring, taste your chili and adjust seasonings if needed. Sometimes a little extra salt or a squeeze of lime juice can make all the difference.
Thickening Option: If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the crockpot with a wooden spoon before serving.

How to Serve

This white chicken chili is a meal in itself, but it’s even better with the right accompaniments:

Topping Bar

Set out bowls of suggested toppings (lime wedges, sour cream, cilantro) plus shredded cheese, avocado chunks, and crispy tortilla strips for a DIY topping station.

Side Pairings

Serve with warm cornbread, flour tortillas, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For casual gatherings, tortilla chips make great scoopers!

Beverage Match

A cold Mexican beer or a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili actually improves with time as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

White chicken chili freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace for expansion.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to thin it out. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

While canned beans are convenient for this recipe, you can use dried beans if you prefer. You’ll need to cook them separately first until they’re almost tender, then add them to the crockpot. Using uncooked dried beans directly in the crockpot won’t work as they need more liquid and cooking time than this recipe provides.
My family doesn’t like spicy food. How can I make this milder?

This recipe is already relatively mild, but to reduce the heat further, use mild Rotel tomatoes or substitute regular diced tomatoes. You can also use less taco seasoning and add more at the end if needed.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?

Absolutely! Place all ingredients in your Instant Pot, seal, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. Shred the chicken and serve as usual.
Is this chili gluten-free?

It can be! Check your seasoning packets carefully, as some brands contain gluten. Look for packets specifically labeled gluten-free, or make your own seasoning blends from scratch using individual spices.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot White Chicken Chili is more than just a meal—it’s a solution for hectic weeknights that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. With minimal prep time and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week ahead, or hosting a casual gathering, this chili delivers every time. Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of slow-cooker magic!