Quick Recipes

Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This hearty chili brings together tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and savory spices, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it simmers away in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) / 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 27 grams
Carbohydrates: 38 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Fiber: 7 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 400 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

Making Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili is a fantastic way to feed your family a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Quinoa is packed with protein and fiber, while chicken breast contributes lean protein. This dish is not only healthy but also customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat levels to suit your taste. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to go about your day while it simmers away.

How to Make Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

Making this delicious chili is simple with just a few steps. You’ll combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker, let it do its magic, and then enjoy a bowl of warmth. Here’s how to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a slow cooker, combine chicken breast, quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mixing

Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken and quinoa are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Cooking

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, letting the flavors meld together beautifully as it cooks.
Step 4: Finishing

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks, stirring it back into the chili for a nice, hearty texture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

This chili is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience by adding toppings such as sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. It’s also great as a filling for tacos or burritos!

How to Store Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

Leftovers of this chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili

Rinse your quinoa thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker to remove any bitterness.
Adjust the chili powder and cumin to your desired spice level for personalized heat.
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
For a vegan version, replace chicken with roasted vegetable or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth.

Delicious Variations

Add Corn: Toss in a cup of frozen corn for sweetness and crunch.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Topping Swap: Instead of avocado, try shredded cheese or Greek yogurt as a topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by an hour if cooking on low.
Can I leave out the quinoa?
Absolutely! If you don’t have quinoa, feel free to substitute with rice, but adjust the liquid accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this chili are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add more beans?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in kidney beans or pinto beans for added protein and fiber.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin or omit any additional spicy ingredients to keep it mild.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Quinoa Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Full of nourishing ingredients and bursting with flavor, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner, you’ll be looking forward to making this recipe time and again. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious dish.