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: 2 lbs 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, undrained; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, 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 a delicious and hearty meal that won't break the bank. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:34:06.753Z

This slow cooker chicken chili is a staple in our household. It's not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of spices and tender chicken makes it a go-to meal for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Rich and hearty flavor that warms you up
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

Perfect for Busy Families

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare healthy meals can be a challenge, especially for busy families. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a lifesaver, allowing you to prepare a hearty dish with minimal effort. Simply gather your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. Whether you’re juggling work commitments, school activities, or after-school sports, this recipe is designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule.

Not only is this chili easy to make, but it also provides a nutritious option that the whole family will love. Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, it’s a well-rounded meal that offers warmth and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and ingredients while keeping mealtime stress-free.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of this chicken chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Want it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer a milder flavor? Simply reduce the chili powder or skip it altogether. You can also swap in different types of beans or add in vegetables like corn or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.

This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for meal prep or when hosting a casual gathering. You can prepare a large batch, and guests can personalize their bowls with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. This way, everyone gets to enjoy a bowl of chili just the way they like it!

Budget-Friendly Meal Solution

In these times of rising grocery prices, it's essential to have recipes that are both delicious and budget-friendly. This slow cooker chicken chili is made from simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. By using beans and chicken, you create a filling meal that stretches your dollar without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Additionally, making a large batch not only saves you time but also allows you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Leftover chili can be used in various ways, from topping baked potatoes to being served in tacos or quesadillas. This means that with one recipe, you can create multiple meals, making it a true winner for your wallet and your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs 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, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in the slow cooker and enjoy a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the beans.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and stir back into the chili.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Enjoy your hearty chili!

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili for days to come. Once the chili has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can pull out a serving whenever you need a quick meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

To reheat, simply thaw the frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the chili appears too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this chili, the possibilities are endless! For a classic touch, top your bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add a lovely visual appeal. You can also serve the chili alongside warm, crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider serving the chili over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This adds extra fiber and nutrients to your meal while still keeping it satisfying. You could even serve it in a bread bowl for a fun twist that the whole family will enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Meanwhile, the beans are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. The combination of these ingredients makes for a balanced meal that supports overall health.

Additionally, the inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and onions provides vitamins and minerals that contribute to a well-rounded diet. Eating a variety of colors in your meals ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients, making this chili a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

Add more chili powder or include chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add corn, zucchini, or any other veggies you like.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.