The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that practically makes itself, look no further than The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Loaded with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a medley of tomatoes and spices, it’s bursting with bold flavors and just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re a chili veteran or new to slow cooker meals, this dish promises a satisfying bowl of warmth and nourishment that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

What sets The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili apart from your typical chili is the perfect balance of ingredients and the ease of preparation. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the chili lean yet protein-packed, while the combination of black beans, Ranch Style Beans, corn, and tomatoes creates a rich, textured base. The slow cooker does the magic, blending the flavors beautifully and tenderizing the chicken to juicy perfection without any hands-on fuss.

This chili is incredibly versatile — serve it over rice, with a side of cornbread, or even spoon it over a baked potato for a comforting meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. If you enjoy recipes like the Southwest Chicken Pasta Skillet, you’ll appreciate the similar bold, southwestern flavors that make this chili a standout.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 (15-oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 (15-oz) cans Ranch Style Beans, undrained
• 2 (15-oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 (15-oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (2.25-oz) packet chili seasoning

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended) – for easy, hands-off cooking
• Can opener – to open all those canned beans and tomatoes
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to combine ingredients gently
• Cutting board and knife – to trim chicken breasts if needed
• Serving bowls – for that cozy presentation

Step-by-Step: The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. There’s no need to cut them into small pieces because they’ll shred easily after cooking. Placing them whole in the slow cooker keeps the meat juicy.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Drain and rinse the black beans, then add them to the slow cooker. Pour in the Ranch Style Beans (with the liquid), diced tomatoes, and the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. These ingredients build the chili’s rich, hearty base.

Step 3: Toss in the Corn and Seasoning

Drain the corn and add it to the slow cooker along with the chili seasoning packet. The seasoning brings all the flavors together with that classic chili warmth and a hint of smoky spice.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and infused with the chili flavors.

Step 5: Shred and Stir

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Final Taste and Serve

Taste your chili and adjust seasoning if needed—more chili powder, salt, or pepper to suit your palate. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Healthier Substitutions

• Use low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes to reduce salt content.
• Swap regular corn for frozen or fresh corn if preferred.
• For a lower-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
• Replace the chili seasoning packet with homemade chili spices for control over ingredients.

Author’s Commentary

This recipe has become one of my go-to slow cooker meals because it’s incredibly forgiving and flexible. The combination of beans and chicken means it’s filling without being heavy. I often pair it with quick sides like a fresh salad or warm tortillas. It’s also perfect for leftovers — the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

If you love dishes with similar easy prep and bold flavors, you might want to check out the Chicken Fajita Pasta In One Pot or the Smoky Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet. Both are fantastic for busy cooks who love a one-pot meal.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover chili stores beautifully. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, cool completely and portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual servings. Add a splash of water or broth if the chili has thickened too much.

The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain tender when slow cooked. You can substitute the same weight of boneless, skinless chicken thighs without changing the cooking time.

Is it possible to make this chili in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to combine ingredients, then cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes with natural pressure release. This speeds up the cooking but still delivers tender chicken and delicious flavor.

How spicy is this chili?

The chili seasoning packet and Rotel tomatoes add a mild to medium heat. If you want more spice, add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños. For a milder version, use mild diced tomatoes and reduce the seasoning.

Can I add extra vegetables to this chili?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded carrots can be tossed in at the start for added nutrition and texture. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep the vegetables from getting too soft.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Southwest Chicken Pasta Skillet – A quick pasta dish with southwestern flair, perfect for busy nights.
• Chicken Fajita Pasta In One Pot – Easy to make and packed with vibrant fajita flavors.
• Smoky Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet – A smoky, satisfying skillet meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

The Last Word

If you’re after a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Chili ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or anytime you want a warm bowl of goodness with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this chili will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve it up with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy every time.

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