Title: Creamy Garlic and Herb Chili
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: American-Mexican
Creamy Garlic and Herb Chili is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and a medley of fresh herbs with tender chicken and white beans. This slow-cooked recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
The addition of spices and herbs elevates this chili beyond the ordinary, making it an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the convenience of the slow cooker, which allows you to set it and forget it while the ingredients cook to perfection.
Serve it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for scooping, and garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of creaminess. This hearty dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Trim any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make it easier to serve later.
- In a slow cooker, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, drained white beans, and the chicken broth. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly and create a flavorful base for the chili.
- Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, followed by the heavy cream, oregano, thyme, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to develop while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
- Once the cooking time is complete, check the chili for seasoning and adjust if necessary. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the cooker to create a creamier texture.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Extra Tips: To enhance the flavors even further, consider adding a splash of lime juice at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. You can also customize this chili by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for additional color and texture.
If you’re looking to make this dish a little lighter, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. Enjoy your delicious and creamy chili!