This Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is an easy, creamy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. Packed with tender chicken, zesty ranch and taco seasonings, black beans, corn, and Rotel, this dish is rich, comforting, and completely effortless!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
Instructions
1. Assemble Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning and taco seasoning over the chicken.
- Add corn, Rotel, and drained black beans on top.
- Place the block of cream cheese on top of everything.
2. Cook on Low or High
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible to help the flavors blend.
3. Shred the Chicken & Mix
- After cooking, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and mix back into the chili.
- Stir everything together until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, or sour cream!
- Enjoy with tortilla chips, cornbread, or over rice.
30 Popular Questions & Answers About Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
General Questions
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Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 1 hour on low. -
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot for 30-40 minutes, then shred the chicken. -
Is this chili spicy?
It has mild heat from the Rotel, but you can add extra spice if desired. -
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, use a larger crockpot and double all ingredients. -
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes! Pinto beans, kidney beans, or white beans work well.
Ingredient Questions
-
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, but add it during the last 30 minutes since it’s already cooked. -
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, try Velveeta or shredded cheddar, but cream cheese makes it extra creamy. -
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
Use garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley as a DIY option. -
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
Yes, stir it in at the end for a lighter version. -
Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet?
Yes! Use chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Cooking Questions
-
Do I need to stir the chili while it cooks?
No, but stirring occasionally helps the flavors blend. -
Should I drain the corn?
No, the liquid helps add moisture to the chili. -
Do I need to add extra liquid?
No, the juices from the Rotel and corn are enough. -
How do I prevent the cream cheese from curdling?
Use full-fat cream cheese and stir occasionally. -
Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes, then quick-release.
Serving Questions
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What are the best toppings for this chili?
Shredded cheese, avocado, green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños. -
What sides go well with this dish?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, or a fresh salad. -
Can I serve this over pasta?
Yes! It’s delicious over macaroni or egg noodles. -
Can I turn this into a soup?
Yes, add extra broth or milk to thin it out. -
Can I serve this as a dip?
Yes! Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for an appetizer.
Storage & Leftover Questions
-
How long does this chili last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. -
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. -
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals. -
Will the texture change after freezing?
The cream cheese may separate slightly—stir well when reheating. -
Can I repurpose leftovers?
Yes! Use in tacos, burritos, nachos, or baked potatoes.
Customization Questions
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Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Try adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. -
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. -
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese or coconut milk. -
How can I make this spicier?
Add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or extra taco seasoning. -
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Yes, but brown it first before adding to the crockpot.
30 Tips to Make Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Even More Delicious
Enhance the Flavor
- Add smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Stir in lime juice for brightness.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of Rotel.
- Mix in a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.
Improve the Texture
- Use half-and-half for an extra creamy sauce.
- Add shredded cheese at the end for gooeyness.
- Stir in butter for richness.
- Use blended cream cheese for smoother texture.
- Add extra broth if it gets too thick.
Make It Healthier
- Use low-fat cream cheese.
- Swap out Greek yogurt for the cream cheese.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or carrots.
- Use lean chicken breast instead of thighs.
- Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Make It More Filling
- Serve with cornbread or biscuits.
- Add diced potatoes for a heartier dish.
- Stir in quinoa for extra protein.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
- Mix in cooked rice or orzo pasta.
Spice It Up 🌶️
- Add chili powder for more heat.
- Use spicy taco seasoning.
- Stir in hot salsa instead of Rotel.
- Top with pickled jalapeños.
- Add red pepper flakes.
Storage & Leftovers
- Freeze in individual portions for meal prep.
- Use in quesadillas or enchiladas.
- Store extra chili in a mason jar for easy reheating.
- Reheat with extra broth for a soup-like consistency.
- Make Chili-Stuffed Peppers with leftovers.
This Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili is creamy, flavorful, and super easy! Try these tips to take it to the next level! 🌶️🍗🔥