Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
The first time I made Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde, it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that would warm me up from the inside out. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the aroma of simmering spices filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. It’s funny how food has this magical ability to create memories. I remember gathering around the table with family, each bowl steaming, everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite. This dish quickly became a favorite, a go-to for busy weeknights or when I wanted to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde lies in its simplicity, using just five ingredients to create a flavorful masterpiece. It’s like a warm hug on a cold night, and I guarantee it will bring the same joy to your home.
Recipe Snapshot
6 mins
0 mins
6 mins
Medium
300 kcal
36 g
Gluten-Free, AIP, Low FODMAP
5 g
Chef’s Knife, Slow Cooker
Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde Stands Out
Easy Preparation
What I love most about Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is how effortless it is to prepare. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! This convenience makes it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.
Flavor Explosion
This dish bursts with flavor thanks to the combination of chicken, salsa verde, and chicken broth. The salsa verde adds a tangy zest, while the chicken becomes tender and pulls apart effortlessly after hours of cooking. It’s a wonderful showcase of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who loves meal prepping, Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is an absolute dream. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for the week. It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner. There’s something incredibly satisfying about having a delicious homemade meal ready to go in the fridge.
Customizable
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can modify it to fit your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Looking for a creamier texture? Top it off with some fat-free sour cream or avocado. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it so fun to make!
Family Friendly
Everyone loves a good chili, and this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is no exception. Kids enjoy the mild flavors, and you can easily introduce them to new ingredients without overwhelming their taste buds. It makes weeknight dinners enjoyable for the whole family, and there’s usually enough left over for lunch the next day.
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde Shopping List
The ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde are beautifully simple, yet they work together in perfect harmony to create a hearty meal. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The key players in this dish are chicken, salsa verde, and chicken broth, all of which contribute to a well-rounded and satisfying chili.
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless – The main protein in this dish, the chicken becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking, making it easy to shred.
- 24 ounces jarred no-sugar added salsa verde – This adds a delightful tang and depth of flavor with its zesty green sauce.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Helps to keep the chili moist and adds a savory base to the dish.
- 15 ounces canned great northern or navy beans – These beans add creaminess and a nice texture, making the chili more filling.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A bright finish that adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is as easy as it gets. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Let’s get started!
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients in one place. It feels so rewarding to have everything ready to go. Grab your chicken and ensure it’s boneless and skinless. This will help the chicken cook evenly and shred easily later on.
- Next, place the chicken into the slow cooker. I love using a large slow cooker for this recipe to ensure everything fits comfortably.
- Now, pour the entire jar of salsa verde over the chicken. The vibrant green color is so inviting! Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce, as this will infuse it with flavor.
- Next, add one cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This will help create a lovely, savory broth that the chicken will cook in. It also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Now, it’s time to add the beans. Drain and rinse your great northern or navy beans before adding them to the slow cooker. They will add body to the chili and make it even more satisfying.
- Once you’ve added all the ingredients, stir them gently to combine. Make sure everything is well mixed, so the flavors meld together. You should see the beautiful colors of the salsa verde and chicken mingling.
- Close the lid of your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for six hours. This long cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, making it melt in your mouth. You can also set it to high for four hours if you’re in a bit of a rush.
- Once the cooking time is up, check to see if the chicken is tender. You should be able to shred it easily with two forks. Remove it from the slow cooker and allow it to cool slightly before shredding.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Stir it into the flavorful broth and beans, allowing it to soak up all the wonderful juices.
- Finally, serve the chili hot in bowls. Top each serving with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Time: Always ensure your chicken is cooked through. The meat should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will deepen over time!
- Serving Temperature: Serve the chili warm. If you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality salsa verde can significantly enhance the taste of your chili.
Customization Ideas
There are so many ways to customize Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde to suit your tastes or pantry needs. Here are some ideas to get you started!
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
- Make it Spicy: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
- Top it Off: Enhance your serving with toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, or sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a Side: Pair it with warm tortillas or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chili for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Use Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian substitute like jackfruit for a plant-based option.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with cumin, oregano, or even a squeeze of lime juice for a flavor boost.
Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde, the options are not only delicious but also endless!
- Family Dinner: Serve it as a comforting family meal, with everyone gathered around the table chatting and enjoying.
- Game Day: This chili is perfect for game day! Serve it in a big pot with toppings on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
- Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day or make it a quick weeknight dinner option.
- Pair with Sides: Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
- Seasonal Serving: This chili is perfect for winter gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort on chilly nights.
- Occasions: It’s a great recipe for casual get-togethers, potlucks, or even taco night!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for three days or frozen for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your dining experience. It’s flavorful, hearty, and so easy to make!
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients in one place. It feels so rewarding to have everything ready to go. Grab your chicken and ensure it’s boneless and skinless. This will help the chicken cook evenly and shred easily later on.
- Next, place the chicken into the slow cooker. I love using a large slow cooker for this recipe to ensure everything fits comfortably.
- Now, pour the entire jar of salsa verde over the chicken. The vibrant green color is so inviting! Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce, as this will infuse it with flavor.
- Next, add one cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This will help create a lovely, savory broth that the chicken will cook in. It also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Now, it's time to add the beans. Drain and rinse your great northern or navy beans before adding them to the slow cooker. They will add body to the chili and make it even more satisfying.
- Once you’ve added all the ingredients, stir them gently to combine. Make sure everything is well mixed, so the flavors meld together. You should see the beautiful colors of the salsa verde and chicken mingling.
- Close the lid of your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for six hours. This long cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, making it melt in your mouth. You can also set it to high for four hours if you’re in a bit of a rush.
- Once the cooking time is up, check to see if the chicken is tender. You should be able to shred it easily with two forks. Remove it from the slow cooker and allow it to cool slightly before shredding.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Stir it into the flavorful broth and beans, allowing it to soak up all the wonderful juices.
- Finally, serve the chili hot in bowls. Top each serving with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will deepen over time!
- Tip 2: Serve the chili warm. If you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Tip 3: Using high-quality salsa verde can significantly enhance the taste of your chili.
