Ingredients :
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix – for a tangy kick
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – brings warmth and depth
- 1 teaspoon cumin – adds an earthy, smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese – adds richness and creaminess
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips or strips for added crunch
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
Instructions :
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the other ingredients. Add the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the ingredients in the crockpot. These spices add warmth and depth, balancing the creaminess of the cheese.
- Place the block of cream cheese on top of everything. The cream cheese will slowly melt during cooking, creating a velvety, rich texture in the chili.
- Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer, slower cooking process on low is ideal as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Shredding the chicken at this stage allows it to soak up all the creamy, seasoned broth, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
- After shredding the chicken, stir everything together to ensure the cream cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the chili. You’ll be left with a thick, creamy, and flavorful chili that’s ready to serve.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro are all fantastic options. For a bit of crunch, add tortilla chips or strips on top.
