This Crockpot Ground Chicken Chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead. Bursting with flavor and a medley of wholesome ingredients, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that combines the lean protein of ground chicken with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices. The slow-cooking process melds all the flavors beautifully, creating a hearty dish that’s satisfying and nutritious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this crockpot ground chicken chili for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The ground chicken keeps the dish light, while a blend of spices and vegetables adds depth and richness. It’s an effortless one-pot meal that allows you to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this chili is also a fantastic option for those looking for a healthy, protein-packed dish that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences!
Tips and Tricks
To make your cooking experience even smoother, consider these tips:
- Brown the Chicken First: While it’s not necessary, browning the ground chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot can enhance the flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth or add extra beans. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving can brighten the flavors.
Make Ahead Tips
Prep parts of this recipe in advance to save time:
- Chop Vegetables: Dice your onions, peppers, and garlic the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Brown the Chicken: You can brown the ground chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Freezing: This chili freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Recipe Variations
There are plenty of fun variations to experiment with:
- Beans: Swap out black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate corn, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spice blends like taco seasoning or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
- Cooking Methods: If you’re short on time, you can make this chili on the stove in about 30 minutes instead of using the crockpot.
How to Serve
Serve your delicious crockpot ground chicken chili in deep bowls, topped with your favorite garnishes. Consider adding shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. Pair it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for an added crunch and a satisfying meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these pairing ideas:
- Drinks: A light lager or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with iced tea or lemonade.
- Sides: Cornbread or a fresh garden salad complements the chili beautifully.
- Dessert: A slice of warm apple pie or brownies would make a delightful finish to your meal.
How to Store
To store your leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Place cooled chili in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to three months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a slow cooker for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a heavy pot on the stovetop can work as an alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this chili suitable for various dietary needs:
- Vegan: Swap ground chicken for lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always check labels if using pre-packaged ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
Adjust your ingredients based on the season:
- Spring/Summer: Use fresh tomatoes and bell peppers for a fresher flavor.
- Fall/Winter: Incorporate seasonal veggies like butternut squash or sweet potatoes for added heartiness.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works well in this recipe.
- How long does it take to cook? On low, it takes about 6-7 hours, and on high, it will take about 3-4 hours.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Crockpot Ground Chicken Chili
This Crockpot Ground Chicken Chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground chicken over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- In the crockpot, combine the browned chicken, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the ingredients well to combine, then cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 371Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 123mgSodium: 869mgCarbohydrates: 34gFiber: 7gSugar: 13gProtein: 34g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This crockpot ground chicken chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers on flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this dish on chilly days, and don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste!
