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, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth

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 or meal prep, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is both simple and satisfying.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:07:12.275Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not just economical but also packed with flavor. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for those cozy nights at home, it combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and a mix of spices that create a comforting dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling without the hefty price tag
Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
Flexibility to customize with your favorite toppings

      

The Comfort of Chili

Chili is a classic comfort food that has warmed hearts and bellies for generations. Its rich, savory flavors combined with tender chicken and a variety of beans create a dish that is both fulfilling and nutritious. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is particularly appealing because it brings together simple ingredients that deliver an impressive depth of flavor. Whether you're returning home after a long day or looking for a cozy meal to serve friends, this chili is sure to satisfy.

One of the best things about chili is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or including fresh jalapeños if you like a bit of heat. Additionally, the use of chicken instead of traditional beef or pork makes this recipe lighter without compromising on taste. It’s a great way to enjoy the beloved chili experience while keeping health considerations in mind.

Meal Prep Made Easy

For those who lead busy lives, meal prepping can be a game-changer. This chicken chili is perfect for preparing in advance, as it stores well in the refrigerator and even freezes beautifully. By making a big batch, you can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week with minimal effort. Simply divide the chili into individual portions and freeze them for quick, convenient lunches or dinners.

When you're ready to enjoy your prepped chili, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You'll have a wholesome, hearty meal in no time. Plus, with so many customizable topping options, each serving can feel like a new experience. Add cheese, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a delightful touch that elevates the dish.

Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Chili

While the chicken chili is delicious on its own, don't hesitate to enhance it with your favorite toppings. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, while sliced jalapeños can provide that extra kick for spice lovers. Crumbled tortilla chips or Fritos add a delightful crunch, making your bowl of chili even more satisfying.

You might also consider serving this chili with a side of cornbread or warm tortillas. These accompaniments not only complement the flavors of the chili but also round out the meal beautifully. With endless topping possibilities, each serving can be unique, catering to every individual's taste preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound 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
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and garlic. Drain and rinse the beans. Cut the chicken into chunks if desired.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.

Cook the Chili

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover chili, simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions; this will keep your chili fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date, so you can keep track of freshness.

When reheating frozen chili, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture and flavor. You can also reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop; just add a splash of water to loosen it up as it warms. Always ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and overall wellness. The variety of beans included contributes fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Plus, the addition of vegetables like onions and corn boosts the nutrient content, providing vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

By using canned tomatoes, you're also getting a dose of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to heart health. This chili is a well-rounded meal that can support a balanced diet, making it a wonderful choice for families looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the standout features of this chicken chili recipe is its flexibility. If you're looking to incorporate more vegetables, try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the slow cooker. These additions can enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish, making it even more satisfying.

For a different twist, consider swapping out the chicken for ground turkey or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. The spices and beans will still provide that hearty chili experience you crave. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this recipe your own while sticking to a budget.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use ground turkey or beef as an alternative, or make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more beans.

→ How spicy is this chili?

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

→ Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance.