Description

This Healthy Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty, protein-packed dish made with ground beef, kidney beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a bold blend of spices. Perfect for busy days, it simmers low and slow in the crockpot, developing deep, savory flavor. Ideal for family dinners, game day, or meal prep, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

1 tbsp coconut or olive oil

1.5 lbs ground beef

1 medium white onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 (16 oz) cans dark kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (or regular diced tomatoes)

2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles

1 cup chicken or beef broth

1 bay leaf

2 tbsp chili powder

½ tbsp cumin

2 tsp salt, plus more to taste

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

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Instructions

Brown Beef – Heat skillet over medium-high. Add oil and beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Cook Onion & Garlic – Add onion and garlic, cooking 4–6 minutes until tender.
Transfer to Slow Cooker – Add beef mixture, beans, tomatoes, green chiles, broth, bay leaf, and spices to slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Slow Cook – Cover and cook on high 5–6 hours or low 7–8 hours until flavors meld.
Season & Serve – Adjust salt and pepper. Serve with toppings like sour cream, avocado, cheddar, or green onions.

Notes

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Make vegetarian by swapping beef for plant-based meat or extra beans.
Add veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Store up to 4 days in fridge or freeze up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Cuisine: American