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There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili on a chilly day, and this Hearty Slow Cooker Chili with a Healthy Twist is a perfect way to satisfy those comfort food cravings without sacrificing your health goals. Packed with protein, fiber, and an array of colorful vegetables, this recipe not only warms you up but also nourishes you from the inside out.

Hearty Slow Cooker Chili with a Healthy Twist

Warm up on chilly days with this Hearty Slow Cooker Chili with a Healthy Twist! This nutritious dish is loaded with lean ground turkey (or a plant-based alternative), colorful veggies, and a mix of beans for a fiber-rich meal that satisfies your comfort food cravings. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, this chili is easy to make and allows flavors to develop beautifully. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a delicious family favorite that nourishes and delights.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb lean ground turkey (or a plant-based meat alternative)

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 bell pepper (any variety), chopped

2 medium-sized carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)

2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup corn (can be frozen or fresh)

Optional toppings: slices of avocado, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheese

Instructions
 

In a frying pan set over medium heat, cook the ground turkey (or meat alternative) until completely browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any surplus fat and set aside.

    In your slow cooker, combine the cooked turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Mix everything together.

      Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and your choice of vegetable or chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are blended.

        Incorporate the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Modify the seasonings according to taste.

          Secure the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and meld.

            About 30 minutes before you're ready to serve, mix in the corn kernels, allowing them to warm up and enhance the dish's sweetness.

              When finished, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and a bit of shredded cheese if you choose.

                Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 7-8 hours | Servings: 6