Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef (or a combo)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 zucchini, chopped (optional, for extra veggies)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added salt)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings (adjust points accordingly):
- Fresh cilantro
- Fat-free sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded low-fat cheese
- Sliced avocado (in moderation)
Instructions:
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground turkey or beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed, then transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
- Add the Veggies and Beans: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, bell pepper, zucchini (if using), kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
- Season the Chili: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir to ensure everything is well mixed. If you prefer a thicker chili, start with 1 cup of broth and add more if needed as it cooks.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally if you can.
- Serve: Once done, give the chili a final stir. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary. Serve hot, and garnish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro, fat-free sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
WW Points (Approximate per serving):
- Freestyle Points: About 3-4 points per serving (1 cup, based on using lean ground turkey and no toppings).
- SmartPoints: Approximately 4 points per serving, depending on ingredients used (such as lean meat, reduced-sodium broth, and no added sugar in the tomatoes).
Tips:
- Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use more beans or add in chopped mushrooms to give it more texture.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables, like carrots, corn, or spinach, for more nutrients without adding many points.
- Freezer-Friendly: This chili freezes well, so feel free to double the recipe and freeze portions for later use.
This Slow Cooker Chili is a perfect, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and is low in points—ideal for anyone on Weight Watchers (WW) or anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal! Enjoy!
