Your weeknights just got easier with this creamy, zesty Slow Cooker Coconut Lime White Chicken Chili. This healthy crock pot dinner offers big flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect meal for busy schedules.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat or light coconut milk works well; full-fat creates a creamier chili.
- Beans: Great Northern or cannellini beans are ideal; black beans also offer a good alternative.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice is essential for brightness; use bottled in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- Juice of 1-2 limes (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker, cutting board, knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the sautéed onion and garlic, rinsed beans, diced green chiles, chicken broth, coconut milk, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds. Cooking this healthy crock pot dinner low and slow allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Shred the Chicken and Finish the Chili
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the chili. Stir in the fresh lime juice, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your warm Slow Cooker Coconut Lime White Chicken Chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Variation Ideas
- Add Vegetables: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
- Spicier Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Creamier Texture: Blend a cup of the chili mixture and stir it back in, or add a block of light cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or gently on the stovetop until heated through. This healthy crock pot dinner freezes well too; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the slow cooker. You may need to add an extra hour to the cooking time.
What kind of beans work best?
Great Northern or cannellini beans are traditional for white chili, but feel free to use navy beans or even black beans.
Is this chili spicy?
The base recipe is mild. The cayenne pepper is optional; adjust it to your preferred spice level.
Can you make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook this on the stovetop. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add all ingredients and simmer for at least 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked and shreddable.
What are good toppings for this chili?
Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a squeeze of extra lime, crushed tortilla chips, or a dollop of Greek yogurt are all delicious additions.
How can you thicken the chili?
For a thicker chili, you can remove a cup of the liquid, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch, and then return it to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking.