Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Recipe
Craving something creamy, hearty, and full of flavor? This cream cheese chicken chili is just the thing. It’s warm, satisfying, and comes together with minimal effort. With tender chicken, comforting spices, and a rich, cheesy base, every bite feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want an easy dinner that tastes amazing, this recipe fits right in.
You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to make something this good. Just a handful of pantry staples, a few minutes of prep, and the magic happens as everything simmers together. The cream cheese melts into the broth, creating a velvety texture that takes this chili to the next level. Serve it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or your favorite toppings and watch it disappear fast.
Cream Cheese Chicken Chili
6-8
servings10
minutes30
minutes~2,900
kcalCream cheese chicken chili combines creamy texture and rich flavors for the perfect comfort meal. Tender chicken, white beans, corn, and a velvety cream cheese base create a satisfying dish that’s both easy to make and full of taste. Whether you choose the stovetop or slow cooker method, each bite offers a comforting blend of cheesy goodness that’s sure to please. A simple yet hearty recipe that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 medium onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (like Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Shredded cheese (optional for topping)
Sour cream (optional for topping)
Directions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large pot or slow cooker. If you’re using a stovetop, you can cook the chicken in a little bit of olive oil before shredding it. For the slow cooker, no need to cook it first – it will cook as the chili simmers.
- In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sautéed onions to the pot with the chicken. Then, pour in the taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and onions with the seasonings.
- Next, add the white beans, corn, diced green chilies, and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cube the cream cheese and add it to the mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is covered. Stir gently to help the cream cheese dissolve and mix in.
- If using a stovetop, bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- After the chili has cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the pot (or remove the chicken breasts, shred them separately, and return them to the pot). Stir to combine everything.
- For an extra creamy texture, add the heavy cream at this point and stir until well mixed.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you’d like it spicier, you can add more chili powder or some hot sauce.
- Serve the chili hot in bowls, and top with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little extra heat. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and use a mild salsa or omit the green chilies.
Conclusion
To wrap up, cream cheese chicken chili is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a meal that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this chili is a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your liking, making it as mild or as bold as you want. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, and we’re sure it will earn a permanent spot in your meal planning rotation!
