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; 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Chopped green onions; Fresh cilantro

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a delicious and hearty chicken chili that's easy on the wallet and perfect for meal prep!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:31:11.035Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only economical but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken with beans and spices for a comforting dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful and filling without breaking the bank
Easy to make with minimal prep time
Great for leftovers and meal prep
Versatile to customize with your favorite toppings

      

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for cozy family dinners, busy weeknights, or even casual gatherings with friends. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and accessible. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out. The combination of spices and tender chicken creates an irresistible aroma that will have your family eagerly awaiting dinner.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this chicken chili is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient choice for busy schedules. Portion it out into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners, and simply reheat when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also helps you stick to a budget while enjoying wholesome meals.

Storing leftovers is a breeze, too! The chili keeps well in the refrigerator for several days and can even be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat for a delicious meal that tastes just as good as the day it was made.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best parts about this chicken chili is its adaptability. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Want to add some heat? Toss in a few diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Prefer it milder? Simply skip the spicy additions. You can also experiment with different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Topping your chili can elevate the dish even further. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, a sprinkle of shredded cheese for richness, or fresh herbs like cilantro for a burst of flavor. This recipe invites creativity, so feel free to make it your own and enjoy the culinary journey!

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the black beans.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer with black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Chili

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the chili and stir well.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, cheese, green onions, or cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly chicken chili!

Tips for the Best Chicken Chili

To achieve the best flavor in your chicken chili, consider seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the slow cooker. This additional step enhances the overall taste and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Additionally, always choose high-quality chicken for the best results; organic or free-range options can provide a richer taste.

If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Simply add it to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking to warm through. This not only saves time but also infuses the chili with extra flavor from the seasoned chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken chili is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. A simple side salad can also complement the meal, adding freshness and crunch to balance the hearty chili.

For a festive touch, consider setting up a chili bar with various toppings, allowing everyone to customize their bowls. Offer options like diced avocados, jalapeños, and different types of cheese to create a fun and interactive dining experience.

Nutritional Benefits

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili is not only affordable but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The black beans contribute fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied while also promoting digestive health.

Additionally, the variety of spices used in this recipe, such as chili powder and cumin, not only enhance the flavor but also bring their own health benefits. These spices can aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties, making this chili a nourishing choice for your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for black beans?

You can substitute black beans with kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.