CA GROWN Blog
Discover. Learn. Connect.
An Easy Slow Cooker Chili Recipe For Hectic Weeknights
Meet Them Here
Read Bios »An Easy Slow Cooker Chili Recipe For Hectic Weeknights
Let’s be honest: life can get crazy. Between juggling work deadlines, shuttling kids to activities, and trying to find a moment to breathe, dinner often ends up as an afterthought. But what if I told you there’s a way to have a hearty, flavorful meal waiting for you at the end of the day with minimal effort? Enter our slow cooker chili—a game-changer for those hectic weeknights when you need something comforting without the fuss.
This easy slow cooker chili recipe isn’t just good; it’s phenomenal. We’re talking about a great chili that’s rich, robust, and bursting with layers of flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it, forget it, and come home to the best chili recipe that’s ever graced your dinner table.
Why Make Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Why the slow cooker, you ask? Well, slow cooking is like having a personal chef at home during the day who works while you’re out conquering the world. It transforms simple ingredients into delicious flavors over low, steady heat. The spices meld, the beans soften, and the aromas fill your home—it’s the ultimate comfort food experience.
The California Connection: Beans Grown in the Golden State
Do beans grow in California? You bet they do! California farmers grow over 400 different crops, including a wide variety of beans. From black beans to pinto beans and dark red kidney beans, the state’s agricultural diversity shines.
Where do beans grow in California? They’re cultivated in the fertile soils of the Sacramento and Northern San Joaquin valleys. The Mediterranean climate and rich earth create the perfect conditions for these humble legumes to thrive. So when you’re enjoying this homemade chili, you’re likely savoring the bounty of CA GROWN beans.
What Makes This the Best Crockpot Chili Recipe Out There?
1. A Trio of Beans for Depth and Texture
We’re not skimping on the beans here. This flavorful chili features black beans, pinto beans, and dark red kidney beans. The combination provides a rich texture and a hearty bite that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Using canned beans is convenient without sacrificing quality—especially when they’re CA GROWN.
2. A Spice Blend That Packs a Punch
The magic lies in the spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a hint of cinnamon. Yes, cinnamon. It might sound unconventional, but trust me—it adds a warmth and complexity that elevates this chili from good to downright irresistible. The spices meld together over hours of slow cooking, creating layers of flavor that can’t be beat.
3. Effortless Cooking for Your Busy Life
This easy slow cooker chili recipe is designed for the busy individual who still craves a homemade meal. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. No babysitting a pot over the stove, no constant stirring—just set it and forget it. By dinner time, you’ll have a pot of the best slow cooker chili waiting to be devoured.
Other Chili Recipes You’ll Love
If this slow cooker chili has ignited your craving for chili recipes, you’re in luck. There’s a whole wide world of different chili recipes out there that cater to every taste and dietary preference. Here are some you should definitely check out:
- The Ultimate Chili Round Up: A curated collection celebrating California’s finest ingredients.
- Deliciously Cheesy Black Bean Chili by Britney Breaks Bread: For those who believe everything’s better with cheese.
- Fire-Roasted Slow Cooker Chili by This Mess Is Ours: A smoky, vegan-friendly option that’s packed with flavor.
- Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili by Salt & Wind: A sweet and savory twist on the classic.
- Chickpea and White Bean Chili by This Mess Is Ours: A protein-packed chili that’s both gluten-free and vegan.
- Black Bean Turkey Chili: A leaner option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Nigella’s Homemade Chili by G-Free Foodie: A hearty, comforting chili with a secret ingredient.
- White Bean, Poblano, and Chicken Chili by Salt & Wind: A flavorful chili with a spicy kick from poblano peppers.
Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or just looking to spice up your meal rotation, these recipes are worth exploring.
How to Serve This Flavorful Chili
Chili is versatile, and serving it is half the fun. Here are some ideas to elevate your chili experience:
- Favorite Toppings: Load it up with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or avocado slices. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the heat.
- Add Some Crunch: Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side bring a delightful texture.
- Spice It Up: A dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for those who like it fiery.
- Make It a Meal: Serve over rice or quinoa to stretch the servings and add some grains to the mix.
Customizing Your Chili: Make It Your Own
One of the beauties of chili is its adaptability. Here’s how you can tweak this great chili to suit your preferences:
- Meat Lovers: Add browned ground beef or turkey for a heartier version.
- Vegetable Boost: Throw in some diced zucchini, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Bean Swap: Not a fan of a certain bean? Substitute with white beans or chickpeas.
- Leftover Chili Magic: Use leftover chili to make chili dogs, nachos, or even chili-stuffed baked potatoes.
Storage Tips: Enjoying Chili the Next Day
Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Store it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. A splash of broth can help revive the consistency if it has thickened in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. When you’re short on time, this makes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Make This Slow Cooker Chili Tonight!
So, what are you waiting for? With this easy slow-cooker chili recipe, dinner is one less thing to worry about. It’s a flavorful chili that’s simple to make, nourishing, and sure to please the whole family.
NEED A PLAYLIST FOR THE CHILLY NIGHTS AHEAD? CHECK OUT THIS CALIFORNIA GROWN SPOTIFY PLAYLIST:
We’d love to see how your chili turns out. Share your mouthwatering bowls on social media using #CAGROWN. Who knows? Your take on this slow cooker chili might just inspire someone else to embrace the joys of slow cooking.
Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients
For the chili:
- 1 jalapeno seeded, finely diced
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 2 15 oz can black beans, without liquid
- 1 15 oz can kidney beans, with liquid
- 1 15 oz can pinto beans, with liquid
- 1 TBSP chili powder
- 1 TBSP cumin
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ -½ cup vegetable broth if needed.
Instructions
To make the chili:
- Dice the jalapeño, onion, red bell pepper, and mince the cloves of garlic.
- Put the diced veggies, minced garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes (with liquid), black beans (drained), kidney beans (with liquid), and pinto beans (with liquid) into the slow cooker.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. If the liquid in the cans of beans is low or the chili looks like it needs a tad more liquid you can add anywhere from ¼-½ cup vegetable broth at this point.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Notes
Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.