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High Protein Chili {Kid-friendly, Slow Cooker}

  • Author: ChefEmma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This kid-friendly High Protein Chili is a hearty and nutritious slow cooker meal packed with lean meat, beans, and vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s flavorful without being too spicy for little ones.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey or beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (mild)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth


Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey or beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Transfer the cooked meat to a slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, corn, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
  3. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add water or broth and stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Stir well before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve warm with kid-friendly toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Notes

  • For picky eaters, you can blend part of the chili for a smoother texture.
  • This chili freezes well for up to 3 months—perfect for batch cooking.
  • Use low-sodium canned ingredients to better control the salt content.