Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Then you've come to the right place! This Whole30 crockpot chicken chili is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and completely aligns with the Whole30 dietary guidelines. Get ready to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (omit for stricter Whole30)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and bell peppers. Mince the garlic. This step makes the cooking process much smoother. Preparing everything beforehand saves you time later.
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Layer in the Crockpot: Add the chicken breasts to the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans (if using), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine everything. Allow to simmer for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. This delicious and satisfying chili is perfect served with a side of cauliflower rice or a simple salad for a complete Whole30 meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Whole30 Crockpot Chicken Chili:
- Bone-in Chicken: For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. The cooking time might need to be adjusted slightly.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Make it Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This is a great recipe for meal prepping.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without kidney beans):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe provides a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option for a delicious dinner. It's a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy eating can be! This is one of the best recipes for those following the Whole30 diet, looking for easy, healthy, and delicious dishes. Enjoy!