Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Chili with Cheese and Chives
Indulge in this Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Chili with Cheese and Chives, perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive potluck. This recipe combines tender, shredded chicken thighs with a delightful medley of tomatoes, beans, and spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. The addition of a flavorful chili seasoning mix elevates the taste, while the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend adds a creamy texture. Garnish with fresh chives and a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but is also a hearty and nutritious option for gatherings, providing ample servings for family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 lbs (frozen or thawed)
Rotel
10 ounces (1 can (2 cans for more heat))
diced tomatoes
14.5 ounces (1 can, undrained)
yellow onion
1 medium (chopped)
chili seasoning mix
1 ounce (1 package)
ranch-style beans
30 ounces (2 cans)
shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
0.5-1 cup (to taste)
chives
to garnish (fresh, chopped)
sour cream
if desired (for serving)
Instructions
1
Place the frozen or thawed boneless, skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of a 5-quart slow cooker.
2
In a separate bowl, mix together the Rotel, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the chili seasoning mix thoroughly.
3
Pour the tomato and seasoning mixture over the chicken thighs evenly.
4
Add the chopped onions on top of the mixture, distributing them across the surface.
5
Pour both cans of ranch-style beans over the onions and chicken, ensuring they cover the ingredients well.
6
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
7
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it back into the chili. Stir well to combine.
8
Allow the chili to cook for an additional 15-30 minutes to meld the flavors together.
9
Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Chili with Cheese and Chives?
It is a cozy and nutritious slow-cooked dish made with tender shredded chicken thighs, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 9 main ingredients, including the chicken, vegetables, seasonings, and garnishes.
What type of chicken is best for this chili recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, the instructions state you can use either frozen or thawed boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
How long does the chicken chili need to cook?
The chili should cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
What size slow cooker is recommended?
A 5-quart slow cooker is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to drain the diced tomatoes or Rotel?
No, you should use the diced tomatoes undrained and include the juice from the Rotel to provide moisture for the chili.
How can I make the chili spicier?
You can use 2 cans of Rotel instead of 1 if you prefer a higher level of heat.
What kind of beans are used in this chicken chili?
The recipe uses two 15-ounce cans (30 ounces total) of ranch-style beans.
What seasoning is used for the base of the chili?
A 1-ounce package of chili seasoning mix is used to flavor the dish.
How do I shred the chicken?
Once cooked, you can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks before mixing it back into the liquid.
What is the final step after shredding the chicken?
After shredding and stirring the chicken back in, allow the chili to cook for an additional 15-30 minutes to meld the flavors.
What kind of cheese is recommended for topping?
A blend of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese is recommended.
Are there any suggested garnishes for this dish?
Yes, it is best served hot with shredded cheese, fresh chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for one medium yellow onion, chopped.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Yes, it is described as perfect for a festive potluck or a hearty family meal.
Do I need to brown the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?
No, the chicken thighs are placed raw (or frozen) directly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs?
While thighs are recommended for tenderness, you could use breasts, though they may be slightly drier after long slow cooking.
How do I mix the seasonings and tomatoes?
In a separate bowl, mix the Rotel, undrained diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning mix thoroughly before pouring over the chicken.
What is the texture of the finished chili?
The chili is hearty and creamy, especially when the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend is added.
Is this a family-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is categorized as a family-friendly comfort food that provides ample servings.
How much cheese should I add?
The recipe suggests 0.5 to 1 cup of shredded cheese blend, or to taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this chili?
While not in the original recipe, you could easily add bell peppers or corn for extra nutrients.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chicken chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What makes this chili 'hearty'?
The combination of 2 lbs of chicken, two cans of beans, and various tomato products makes it a very filling meal.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, the beans, onions, and tomatoes provide dietary fiber, making it a nutritious option.
How is the onion distributed in the slow cooker?
The chopped onions are added on top of the tomato mixture, distributed across the surface before adding the beans.
What if I don't have fresh chives?
You can substitute with green onions or omit them, though fresh chives provide a specific flavor layer.
Can this be made on high heat instead of low?
While the recipe specifies low heat for 6-8 hours, you can typically cook it on high for 3-4 hours, though low heat yields more tender chicken.