Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor explosion with the most incredible slow cooker recipe that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds! This Easy Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines smoky, spicy, and hearty flavors with minimal effort. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken and bold Mexican-inspired spices - all prepared with just minutes of prep time and the magic of your slow cooker.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using frozen corn, measure out 1 cup and set aside to thaw.
- In a slow cooker, add the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Make sure they are evenly spread out at the bottom of the cooker.
- Next, add the drained and rinsed black beans and kidney beans on top of the chicken. This will help to layer the flavors as they cook.
- Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. This will provide moisture and flavor to the chili.
- Add the 1 cup of corn, diced onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker, distributing them evenly over the beans and chicken.
- Chop the 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and add them to the slow cooker. Be cautious with the amount, as they can add a significant amount of heat.
- Sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons of cumin and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. These spices will enhance the chili's flavor profile.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, adjusting to your preference later.
- Stir all the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring that the chicken is coated with the spices and other ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be fully cooked and tender, easily shredding with a fork.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it back into the chili. This will create a hearty texture.
- Give the chili a final taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality chicken breasts for the most tender result. Fresh, plump chicken will shred more easily and absorb flavors better.
- Don't be afraid of the chipotle peppers, but start conservatively. These little flavor bombs pack serious heat, so add them gradually and taste as you go.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting your cumin and chili powder in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding them to the slow cooker. This will enhance their depth and richness.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking or use a potato masher to break down some beans and create a heartier texture.
- Customize your toppings! While the recipe suggests classic garnishes like cheese and sour cream, feel free to get creative with pickled jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or even a drizzle of lime crema.
- This chili freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
