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 lb 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 with green chilies; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for any budget. Just toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:04:15.857Z

This chili is not just budget-friendly; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights
Easily customizable with your favorite beans and spices
Minimal prep time for maximum flavor

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only economical but also a comforting dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving a warm bowl on a chilly evening, this chili fits the bill. It combines protein, fiber, and vegetables for a balanced meal that satisfies.

The slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly convenient. You can prepare your ingredients in the morning, set the cooker, and return home to a delicious, aromatic meal. This hassle-free cooking method allows you to enjoy time with family or tackle other tasks while your chili simmers to perfection.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this chicken chili recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Prefer a spicier kick? Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Not a fan of corn? Feel free to replace it with bell peppers or zucchini.

Additionally, the choice of beans is entirely up to you. White beans or pinto beans can be used in place of black or kidney beans. You can even experiment with different spices and herbs to create a unique flavor profile that your family will love. This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This slow cooker chicken chili is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and portion it out for the week, allowing you to enjoy a quick and nutritious meal at any time. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze portions for longer storage.

Reheating is simple, and the flavors often deepen as the chili sits, making leftovers even more delicious. This budget-friendly recipe not only saves you time but also minimizes food waste, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well on a budget.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb 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 with green chilies
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Cook the Chili

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the chili.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chili!

Tips for Success

For the best results, choose high-quality chicken breasts. Organic or free-range options may enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of your chili. Additionally, consider searing the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for an extra layer of depth in flavor.

Don’t forget to taste your chili before serving! Depending on your preference and the specific ingredients used, you might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices to achieve the perfect balance.

Choosing Your Toppings

Toppings can elevate your chili experience to a new level. Common favorites include shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, or slices of creamy avocado. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can add a burst of freshness, while tortilla chips or cornbread on the side provide a satisfying crunch.

Feel free to get creative with toppings! Crushed tortilla chips, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can add both texture and flavor. Encourage your guests to customize their bowls for a fun and interactive meal experience.

Storing and Reheating

To store your leftover chicken chili, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly, either on the stovetop or in the microwave.

If you find the chili thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating. This will restore its original consistency, making it just as delicious as when it was first made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully cooked before shredding.

→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with extra beans or tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover chili can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add more spices?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. More chili powder or some cayenne can add extra heat.