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 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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:10:02.419Z

This chili is not only delicious but also easy on the wallet! Using simple ingredients, it brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with flavor and hearty ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Makes use of affordable pantry staples

      

Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Nothing beats a warm bowl of chili on a chilly evening, and this Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is no exception. With its robust flavors and filling ingredients, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of taste that will make every meal feel special.

Using a slow cooker means you can enjoy the aroma of this delightful chili wafting through your home while you go about your day. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that is bursting with taste. It's a comforting meal that brings the family together, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something easy yet delicious.

Affordable and Nutritious

In today's economy, finding meals that are both budget-friendly and nutritious is more important than ever. This chicken chili recipe uses affordable pantry staples, making it accessible for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing quality. With beans, corn, and tomatoes as the foundation, you’re not only stretching your dollar but also packing in essential nutrients.

Moreover, chicken is a lean protein that provides a great source of energy without the added fats found in some other meats. This makes the chili a healthy option that fits perfectly into a balanced diet, ensuring you and your family receive the nourishment you need without breaking the bank.

Easy to Customize

One of the best things about this chicken chili is how easily it can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost. If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe also works well for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal anytime, making your life easier and more delicious.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken 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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker for a flavorful meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the beans.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper on top.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the chili.

Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious chili!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your chicken chili, the options are limitless. Top your bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of creamy avocado for added richness. Fresh cilantro or green onions can also provide a fresh pop of flavor. For those who love crunch, consider serving your chili with tortilla chips or over a bed of rice for an extra filling meal.

If you're hosting a gathering, this chili makes a great centerpiece for a casual dinner. Set up a toppings bar where guests can customize their bowls with their favorites. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dining experience interactive and fun!

Storage Tips

To keep your chicken chili fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the chili. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to portion it out into individual servings for easy reheating later.

When you are ready to enjoy your frozen chili, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This allows you to savor a homemade meal with minimal effort, perfect for those busy days when cooking is the last thing on your mind.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with more beans or extra vegetables.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.