Table of Contents: Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
Looking for a dinner that’s both hearty and hassle-free? This Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili recipe is your ultimate answer. Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, tender shredded chicken, beans, corn, and zesty spices, this dish practically cooks itself. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight meal or feeding a crowd on game day, this recipe delivers every time.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and cooking tips to portion sizes and storage. You’ll also learn how to thicken the chili, serve it up like a pro, and tweak it with creative variations. And of course, we’ll answer all your top questions about cooking chicken chili in a crockpot.
Check out Crockpot Panera Wild Rice Soup for another slow-cooked comfort dish!
Introduction to Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
What Is Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili?
Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili is a comforting, flavor-packed meal combining the warmth of traditional chili with the kick of your favorite taco seasoning. This slow cooker meal includes chicken breasts (or thighs), beans, corn, tomatoes, taco spices, and sometimes creamy ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream. After slow-cooking for hours, everything blends together into a hearty, satisfying bowl of goodness.
Unlike beef chili, this one uses shredded chicken, making it a lighter yet still protein-rich option. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or even game night potlucks.
Why It’s a Go-To Meal for Families
Here’s why it’s loved by busy home cooks:
- Dump-and-go: Toss everything in the pot and walk away.
- Hands-off cooking: No stove monitoring needed.
- One-pot meal: Less cleanup required.
- Kid-friendly: Mild spice levels make it suitable for all ages.
- Customizable: Add heat, dairy, or toppings as you like.
Discover great ideas like Zucchini Feta Bread to pair with your chili.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Taco Chili
Essential Ingredients and Substitutes
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitute Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 large | Chicken thighs, ground chicken |
| Canned black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Pinto beans, kidney beans |
| Corn (frozen/canned) | 1 cup | Fresh corn kernels |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | Fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet | Homemade blend of cumin, chili, paprika |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small | Shallots, red onions |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Garlic powder |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Vegetable broth |
Best Chicken Cuts for Crockpot Chili
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly. They shred easily and absorb flavor beautifully. Prefer more richness? Use chicken thighs, which stay juicy and tender even after long cooking hours.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beginners
- Prep the base: Add beans, corn, diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, and taco seasoning to the crockpot.
- Lay the chicken: Place whole raw chicken breasts on top.
- Add liquid: Pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Shred the chicken: Once tender, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot.
- Stir & serve: Mix well and serve with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Sauté the onions and garlic briefly before adding.
- Stir in a dollop of cream cheese in the last 15 minutes for creaminess.
- Add a squeeze of lime before serving for brightness.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Best Slow Cooker Settings for Chicken Chili
| Setting | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Low | 6–8 hours |
| High | 3–4 hours |
| Keep Warm | Up to 2 hours post-cooking |
For best flavor, cook it low and slow to help ingredients break down and blend perfectly.
How Long to Cook for Perfect Texture
Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally. When it shreds easily with a fork, it’s done! Beans and veggies should be soft but not mushy.
Nutrition, Calories & Portion Sizes
Calorie Breakdown and Nutritional Info (approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 23g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 4g |
How Many People Does One Crock Pot of Chili Feed?
A standard 6-quart crockpot makes about 6–8 servings. Perfect for families or leftovers.
Don’t miss our Homemade Philadelphia Tomato Pie — a great side dish pairing idea.
Common Crockpot Chili Cooking Questions
Do You Brown Meat Before Crockpot Chili?
With chicken chili, browning isn’t necessary. However, some chefs sauté the onions and garlic first for deeper flavor. If using ground meat, browning is essential to remove excess grease and improve texture.
Can You Overcook Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, overcooking can cause the chicken to become stringy and beans to fall apart. Stick to the recommended cook times and switch to “Warm” once done.
Thickening, Storage, and Reheating Tips
How to Thicken Crockpot Chicken Chili the Right Way
Here are easy ways:
- Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes.
- Mash some beans inside the pot.
- Add cream cheese or cornstarch slurry for a creamy thickness.
Storing and Reheating Without Losing Flavor
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat over the stove on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Cheesy Mashed Potatoes as a comforting side!
Variations and Topping Ideas
Best Toppings for Chicken Taco Chili
Make it fun and flavorful with:
- Shredded cheddar
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro
- Pickled jalapeños
Creative Recipe Twists and Add-ins
- Add quinoa or rice for extra bulk.
- Stir in spinach at the end for greens.
- Spice it up with chipotle peppers or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings: Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken Chili
- Cornbread
- Garlic bread
- Mexican rice
- Simple salad
- Nachos or tortilla chips
Make It a Meal: What to Serve for Gatherings
This dish pairs well with appetizers like:
- Mini quesadillas
- Guacamole & chips
- Stuffed jalapeños
- Lime margaritas
Don’t miss our Air Fryer Stuffed Peaches — a perfect light dessert!
People Also Ask: Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
How many people does one crock pot of chili feed?
A 6-quart crockpot serves 6–8 people, depending on portion size.
How to thicken crockpot chicken chili?
Remove the lid, mash beans, or add cream cheese/cornstarch near the end.
Do you brown meat before crockpot chili?
Not with chicken. If using ground meat, browning is recommended.
Can you overcook chili in a slow cooker?
Yes. Chicken can get stringy and beans mushy. Stick to cook times.
Can you make this recipe low-carb or keto?
Yes! Skip corn and beans. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and more chicken.
Is it safe to leave chicken in the crockpot on low all day?
Yes, if you stick to 6–8 hours. Avoid leaving it for 10+ hours unattended.
Conclusion: Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
There you have it: everything you need to make the best Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili at home. With flexible ingredients, easy prep, and bold flavor, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Looking for more cozy meals? Check out our Crockpot Panera Wild Rice Soup or explore even more dinner recipes from Crystal.
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Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful crock pot chicken taco chili that’s packed with beans, corn, and just the right amount of spice.
Ingredients
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 15.5 oz can black beans, drained
- 15.5 oz can kidney beans, drained
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 10 oz package frozen corn kernels
- 2 cans diced tomatoes with chilies (10 oz each)
- 4 oz can chopped green chili peppers
- 1 packet reduced sodium taco seasoning or homemade
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 24 oz (3 boneless skinless chicken breasts)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):
- 1 1/2 tbsp cumin
- 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the cilantro into the crock pot.
- Stir well to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts on top and press them slightly into the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, then return to the crock pot.
- Stir to mix the shredded chicken evenly throughout the chili.
- Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: crock pot, chicken, taco chili, slow cooker, beans, easy dinner