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: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that won't break the bank. Perfect for busy days, this recipe is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:46:09.853Z

This chicken chili is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. It's perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A flavorful blend of spices that warms the soul
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Affordable ingredients that feed a crowd

      

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a cozy meal for a chilly evening, this Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is the ideal choice. Its robust flavors and hearty ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser. The slow cooking process allows all the spices to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and comforting. Plus, the aroma that fills your home while it cooks is simply irresistible.

This chili is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly flexible. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer it milder? Omit the chili powder or use a milder variety. With this recipe, you have the freedom to experiment and make it your own.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this chicken chili is its suitability for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator and freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for busy weeks. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, and you’ll have easy lunches and dinners ready to go. Simply reheat and enjoy, saving you time and effort during your hectic weekdays.

Moreover, this recipe is designed to serve a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Just double the batch if you're expecting a larger group, and you'll have a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy. The affordability of the ingredients means you won’t have to spend a fortune to feed your guests.

Healthier Comfort Food

This chicken chili is not only budget-friendly but also a healthier comfort food option. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn, it provides a balanced meal that keeps you full without the guilt. The use of fresh ingredients also means you're avoiding many processed foods typically found in other comfort dishes.

Additionally, by making this dish at home, you have complete control over what goes into it. You can opt for low-sodium canned goods or organic ingredients, ensuring that your chili is as nutritious as possible. This way, you can indulge in a hearty meal while still making smart choices for your health.

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

Chopped cilantro
Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Avocado slices

Mix and match your favorite toppings to personalize your chili!

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the beans. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add the chicken, onions, garlic, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Chili

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

Shred Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks and stir well.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, sour cream, cheese, and avocado slices as desired.

Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite toppings!

Tips for the Best Chili

To elevate your chili experience, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings. While cilantro, sour cream, cheese, and avocado are great, try adding crushed tortilla chips or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra crunch and flavor.

If you have leftovers, they can be transformed into a variety of dishes. Use the chili as a filling for burritos or tacos, or serve it over rice or quinoa for a different take on the meal. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili with a side of warm cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. The sweetness of cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully. Alternatively, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

For those who enjoy a little heat, offer a selection of hot sauces on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to their liking. This way, you cater to all taste preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this wonderful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I substitute for the beans?

You can substitute with lentils or other legumes if preferred.

→ Is this chili spicy?

This recipe is mild, but you can add cayenne pepper or jalapeños for extra heat.

→ Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! This chili stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes well too.