Description of this recipe
Warm up with this cozy, protein-packed chili made in the slow cooker! It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Chili is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family.
Why you will love this recipe
This chili is packed with wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker. The combination of tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a medley of beans creates a satisfying and hearty meal. The spices add a delightful warmth that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s versatile! You can adjust the heat level, add your favorite toppings, and even make it your own by including additional veggies. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or meal prep for the week, this chili is a winner.
Introduction
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of chili to warm your soul. This Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Chili is the perfect remedy for those chilly evenings. It’s a dish that not only fills you up but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. With its delightful balance of savory and sweet, this chili is bound to become a staple in your home.
Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
Optional add-ins:
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 1-2 diced jalapeños (for added heat)
- Lime juice (for serving)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Dice the onion and garlic, and prepare any optional add-ins such as bell pepper or jalapeños if you like extra heat.
Step 2:
Layer the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps to keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
Step 3:
Add the cubed sweet potatoes, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
Step 4:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir in the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if desired.
Step 5:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks. If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the sweet potatoes to thicken the sauce. If it’s too thick, simply add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this hearty chili with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing zing. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For additional flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours before cooking.
- You can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the chicken with extra beans or lentils.
- If you like a smokier flavor, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- This chili freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper or adding more jalapeños.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Chili is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this chili is a must-have recipe in your collection. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen as it simmers away!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just remember that it may increase the cooking time slightly, so ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.
Q2: How can I make this chili spicier?
A2: To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side.
Q3: Is there a way to make this chili vegetarian?
A3: Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with extra beans, lentils, or even some diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture.
Q4: Can I prepare this chili in advance?
A4: Yes, you can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just add everything to the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook while you’re away.
Q5: What are some good toppings for this chili?
A5: Some delicious toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch!
