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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make chicken chili, perfect for budget-conscious meal planning.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:16:15.571Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is a fantastic way to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that don't compromise on flavor
Set it and forget it for a hassle-free cooking experience
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd
Rich in protein and fiber for a nourishing meal

      

A Simple and Satisfying Meal

Chicken chili is one of those comforting dishes that warms you from the inside out. This budget-friendly recipe combines tender chicken with hearty beans and vibrant vegetables, creating a bowlful of nourishment that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this slow cooker chili fits the bill.

Not only is it filling, but it also packs a flavorful punch thanks to the combination of spices and fresh ingredients. The blend of chili powder and cumin brings out the rich flavors of the chicken and beans, making every bite a delight. Plus, the easy preparation means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this slow cooker chicken chili is its versatility for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store individual servings in airtight containers, and you’ll have a nourishing meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Freezing leftovers is also a great option. Simply let the chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something homemade without the hassle.

Customizable for Your Taste

This chicken chili is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value and flavor variety. The possibilities are endless!

If you’re vegetarian or looking for a meatless option, simply replace the chicken with additional beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian chili. This flexibility makes it a great recipe to suit different dietary preferences while still keeping it budget-friendly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious chicken chili:

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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your chili:

Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

Combine in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the chili.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your warming bowl of chicken chili!

Tips for the Best Chili

For the best flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step enhances their natural sweetness and depth. If you have time, let the chili sit for a few hours after cooking; the flavors will continue to meld and improve, making it even tastier.

Don’t forget to taste your chili before serving! This is the perfect time to adjust seasoning to your liking. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lime juice can elevate the dish to new heights, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken chili hot with a variety of toppings to add texture and flavor. Some popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro. For a bit of crunch, consider garnishing with tortilla chips or croutons on top.

Pair your chili with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also provides a complete and nutritious dining experience that everyone will love.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

If you find that your chili has thickened after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency. This ensures your chili remains as delicious as the first time you served it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.