High Protein Chili Crock Pot – Meal Prep Monday Winner

Protein-Packed Slow Cooker Chili

Protein-Packed Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty, nutritious dish perfect for those seeking a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor.

Loaded with lean meats, beans, and spices, this one-pot wonder boasts high protein content, making it ideal for athletes and health-conscious individuals alike.

Its slow-cooking method enhances flavors while allowing for minimal prep time, making it a convenient choice for busy families.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2-3 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or avocado

Cooking Steps

Start by gathering all your ingredients.

You’ll need 1 pound of ground turkey or lean ground beef, which will serve as the protein base for your chili.

Chop 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper of any color into small pieces.

Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic, and have your other canned ingredients ready: 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 can of tomato paste.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the 1 pound of ground turkey or lean ground beef until fully cooked.

This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Make sure to break it apart into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Once the meat is browned, drain any excess fat, if necessary, and set it aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

In your crock pot, add the browned meat along with the prepared vegetables: the diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic.

Next, pour in the canned ingredients: 1 can of drained and rinsed kidney beans, 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices), and 1 can of tomato paste.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Now it’s time to season your chili.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of chili powder (adjust to your desired heat), 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, and mix all the ingredients thoroughly in the crock pot.

Step 5: Cook in the Crock Pot

Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

The slower cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a delicious chili.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chili is cooked, give it a good stir and taste.

Adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve hot and offer optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or avocado to enhance your bowl of high protein chili.

Enjoy!

Ingredient Suggestions

When crafting a delicious chili, the ingredients you choose can elevate the dish to new heights.

I love bulk buying protein sources like lean turkey or beans; they’re perfect for adding staying power.

Don’t forget to include seasonal picks like ripe tomatoes and bell peppers for brightness.

Fresh herbs, such as cilantro, can add a burst of flavor that really ties everything together!

Tips and Variations

For a unique twist on your high protein chili, consider adding different beans like black, pinto, or kidney for varied textures and flavors.

Spice it up with jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika for heat.

You can also experiment with different proteins, such as lean beef or quinoa, and try adding vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition.

Garnish With Fresh Herbs

Elevate your high protein chili by garnishing it with fresh herbs that add a burst of flavor and vibrant color.

I love using herb varieties like cilantro, parsley, or chives to enhance each spoonful.

If you’ve got extra herbs, try preserving them in ice cube trays—a perfect way to keep that fresh taste on hand for future dishes.

Enjoy the freshness!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

What do you serve alongside a hearty bowl of high protein chili?

I love starting with crispy tortilla chips or stuffed jalapeños as appetizer ideas. They add a delightful crunch!

For dessert options, consider pairing it with rich brownies or a light fruit salad to balance the robust flavors.

These combinations make for a comforting, well-rounded meal everyone will enjoy.

What drinks can I pair it with?

While enjoying a hearty bowl of high protein chili, it’s important to think about the drink pairings that can enhance the experience.

A crisp Mexican lager complements the spices beautifully, while a rich stout offers a delightful contrast.

If you prefer non-alcoholic beverage options, a chilled lemonade or a tart cranberry spritzer can cleanse the palate and elevate your meal.

Cheers to tasty pairings!