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: 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 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:34:13.854Z

This chicken chili is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. Made with tender chicken, beans, and a mix of spices, it's a meal that the whole family will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling while being easy on the wallet
Flavorful spices create a comforting dish
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Cozy Meal for Any Occasion

Chili is one of those dishes that can instantly warm your soul, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a hearty meal that everyone will love. The combination of tender chicken, beans, and spices creates a comforting bowl that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you're hosting a game day party, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, this chili fits the bill. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it, and let the flavors meld beautifully.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the greatest aspects of chili is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can easily customize to suit your tastes. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Want to sneak in more veggies? Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

Moreover, you can switch up the proteins or beans according to what you have on hand. Ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken, and feel free to substitute different types of beans as well. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique version of this classic meal every time you make it.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. Not only does it make a generous batch, but it also stores well in the refrigerator or freezer. Prepare a large pot on the weekend, and you'll have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Just portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners.

When reheating, the flavors continue to develop, making leftovers even tastier. Plus, with the addition of your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs, you can transform each serving into something special. Meal prep has never been so flavorful and straightforward!

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 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

Gather all your ingredients for a delicious slow cooker meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, combine the diced onions, minced garlic, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and spices. Stir well.

Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on top of the mixture. Pour the chicken broth over everything. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return to the chili. Stir to combine.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like cilantro, cheese, or avocado.

Enjoy your delicious chicken chili!

Tips for the Best Chili

To ensure your chili has the best flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances their sweetness and brings out more depth in the dish. Additionally, don’t be shy with the spices; they are key to achieving that rich, comforting flavor.

If you're using frozen corn, there's no need to thaw it beforehand. Just toss it straight into the slow cooker, and it will heat through as the chili cooks. For a creamier texture, you might also consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chili with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. These sides not only complement the flavors but also add an enjoyable crunch to your dining experience. If you're looking to lighten it up a bit, a simple side salad can provide a fresh contrast to the hearty chili.

For those who enjoy a bit of flair, consider offering a toppings bar with options like diced avocado, chopped green onions, or jalapeños. This allows everyone to personalize their bowl and adds a fun interactive element to the meal.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your chili. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider portioning it out for easier reheating later on.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If the chili has thickened too much, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore its desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with chicken chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice.

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.