Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe

This Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying bowl of chili with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a one-pot wonder the whole family will love. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a customizable meal that warms you from the inside out.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef or Turkey: The base protein that adds richness to the chili. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
• Beans: Kidney beans and black beans provide texture, flavor, and protein.
• Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes make a rich and hearty base.
• Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring warmth and spice.
• Broth: Chicken or beef broth thins the chili slightly and enhances its savoriness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, or tortilla chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Assemble in the Crockpot:
   Transfer the cooked meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook the Chili:
   Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

Recipe Tips

• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Make Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for meal prep or parties.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Classic Side: Serve with cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Crunchy Addition: Offer tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with more beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

What other beans can I use?
Pinto beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas work well as substitutes or additions.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Crockpot Chili is perfect for casual dinners, game-day gatherings, or potlucks. Customize with toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair with warm cornbread or a side of steamed rice for a hearty and satisfying meal!

Crock Pot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

This Crock Pot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this creamy, flavorful chili will become a family favorite.

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Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Forks for shredding the chicken

Ingredients

  

• 2 –3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can white beans (like cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can corn, drained
• 1 10 oz can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Slow Cooker:
• Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
• Add the Ingredients:
• Layer the black beans, white beans, corn, and Rotel over the chicken. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and garlic powder on top. Pour in the chicken broth.
• Add the Cream Cheese:
• Place the cubed cream cheese on top of the other ingredients.
• Cook the Chili:
• Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
• Shred the Chicken:
• Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
• Serve and Enjoy:
• Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings.