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, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any day of the week. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's a comforting dish that won't break the bank.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:28:15.855Z

This chicken chili is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly flavorful. Using simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that your whole family will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A hearty and filling meal that's perfect for cold evenings
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Wholesome Meal for Everyone

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal that everyone in the family will enjoy. The combination of lean chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables makes it an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients while satisfying those hunger pangs.

Moreover, slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a casual gathering, this chili will surely impress your guests and loved ones alike.

Customization at Its Best

One of the greatest advantages of this Chicken Chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add some spice? Toss in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Substitute the chicken with more beans or lentils for a satisfying meal.

Additionally, the toppings are where you can really get creative. From creamy avocado and zesty lime to crunchy tortilla chips and fresh herbs, the options are endless. This makes it a fun dish to serve at gatherings, allowing each person to customize their bowl just the way they like it.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This slow cooker chicken chili is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, and the flavors only get better as it sits. You can easily make a big batch at the beginning of the week, ensuring you have quick and healthy meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a satisfying lunch or dinner. This recipe also freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy this comforting meal even on the busiest days without the stress of cooking from scratch.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Chili

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Make sure to have fresh toppings ready to enhance your chili!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Rinse the beans and set aside.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade chicken chili!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. This makes it easy to have a hearty meal on hand whenever you need it. Just let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to return it to its original consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken chili is not just filling; it's also packed with essential nutrients. The beans provide a healthy dose of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer. The chicken adds lean protein, making this dish a great choice for an active lifestyle.

Additionally, the vegetables like bell peppers and onions contribute vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for immune health and overall well-being. Utilizing whole, nutritious ingredients makes this chili a smart and healthy option for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly to the slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with chili?

Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.