This healthy and flavorful chili is made with lean ground beef or turkey, fresh vegetables, and bold spices. Toss everything into a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious, customizable dish—adjust the protein or spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy a comforting, balanced meal with minimal effort!
Chili is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. However, traditional recipes can sometimes be high in calories and fat, which may not align with a wellness-focused lifestyle. That’s where this recipe comes in: a healthy slow cooker chili that delivers all the bold flavors you love without the guilt. Whether you choose lean ground beef or turkey, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, thanks to a generous helping of vegetables and a carefully crafted spice blend. The slow cooker does all the work, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!
Why This Recipe Works
- Lean Protein Options: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey for a protein-rich base that keeps the dish light yet satisfying.
- Vegetable-Packed: Extra veggies, such as bell peppers and carrots, boost the fiber and nutrient content without sacrificing flavor.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! The slow cooker ensures tender, flavorful chili with minimal effort.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, from mild and family-friendly to fiery and bold.
- Healthy Toppings: Opt for nutritious toppings like Greek yogurt, avocado, or fresh herbs instead of heavy add-ons.
Ingredients
- For the Chili:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean) or ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce (no salt added)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Shredded low-fat cheese
Preparation
1. Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for extra flavor. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the raw meat directly to the slow cooker—it will still cook through, though browning adds depth.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the browned meat (or raw, if skipping the browning step) into the slow cooker.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and broth.
3. Season the Chili
- Mix the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
4. Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
- Tip: Add more broth or water if the chili seems too thick to reach your desired consistency.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or other spices as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and top with healthy toppings, such as shredded cheddar, avocado, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with an additional can of beans or lentils for a hearty, plant-based alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Serving Ideas: Enjoy with a side of whole grain cornbread, over brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Why Choose Lean Ground Beef or Turkey?
Both lean ground beef and turkey are excellent choices for a healthy chili. Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) provides a rich, traditional flavor with less fat, while ground turkey offers a lighter, milder taste with lower calories and saturated fat. If you want to reduce red meat consumption or prefer a leaner option, turkey is an excellent substitute without sacrificing protein or satisfaction.
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per 1.5-cup Serving with Lean Ground Beef)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 8g (from tomatoes, onion, peppers, carrots)
- Net Carbs: 25g (total carbs minus fiber)
- Sodium: 450mg (varies based on broth and added salt)
With Ground Turkey (Alternative)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Other values remain similar (carbs, sodium)
My Takeaway
This healthy slow cooker chili is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and a smoky, spice-filled broth, it’s a meal that satisfies your hunger and wellness goals. Whether you feed a family or prepare weekly meals, this chili is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
