RV Tips: Try This Camping Recipe and Destination!

Nothing beats the feeling of cozying up with a bowl of warm chili after a long day of hiking through the stunning scenery of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This white chicken chili is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make in your RV kitchen. Pair it with the breathtaking views of one of America’s most popular national parks, and you’ve got the perfect camping experience. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore why Great Smoky Mountains National Park should be your next RV camping destination.

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 large potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup half-and-half or evaporated milk
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Sour cream and shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) for serving (optional)

Steps to Make the Chili

Add chicken, diced onion, minced garlic, green chilies, beans, potatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Shred chicken with two forks and return to the crockpot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Why Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Now that your white chicken chili is simmering, let’s talk about why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect backdrop for your RV adventure. This park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is renowned for its misty mountain views, diverse wildlife, and over 800 miles of hiking trails.

Whether you’re hiking to the top of Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, exploring the historic cabins and homesteads scattered throughout the park, or enjoying the peaceful beauty of Cades Cove, there’s something for everyone. The park is also rich in biodiversity, so keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and over 200 species of birds!

The cooler temperatures in the mountains make it an ideal spot to enjoy a warm, hearty meal like white chicken chili after a day of outdoor adventure. Plus, with numerous RV-friendly campgrounds such as Elkmont and Cades Cove, setting up camp is easy and convenient.