When the days get busy and time is short, convenience becomes key in the kitchen. And what’s more convenient than a slow cooker? Today, we have a delicious and nutritious recipe for you that combines the ease of a slow cooker with the goodness of ground chicken. This Healthy Ground Chicken Slow Cooker recipe is a treasure trove of flavors and nutrients, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the details!
**Healthy Ground Chicken Slow Cooker**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ground Chicken**: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step helps to bring out the flavor of the chicken and ensures that it’s fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker.
2. **Layer the Ingredients**: In the slow cooker, layer the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and sliced zucchini. These vegetables will add color, texture, and a variety of nutrients to the dish.
3. **Add the Cooked Ground Chicken**: Once the vegetables are in place, add the cooked ground chicken on top. This will allow the flavors to meld together as the dish cooks slowly, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal.
4. **Pour in the Tomatoes and Beans**: Open the cans of crushed tomatoes and black beans, drain and rinse the beans, and add them to the slow cooker. These ingredients will form the hearty base of the dish, providing a good dose of fiber and essential vitamins.
5. **Incorporate the Corn and Spices**: Sprinkle the corn kernels over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Then, add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
6. **Cook on Low**: Cover the slow cooker and cook the Healthy Ground Chicken mixture on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the flavors to intensify and the ingredients to blend harmoniously.
7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once the cooking time is up, give the dish a final stir to mix all the components together. Serve the Healthy Ground Chicken Slow Cooker hot, directly from the slow cooker, with your choice of optional toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. Each bite will be a celebration of wholesome goodness!
Cooking with a slow cooker not only saves time but also infuses your meals with deep, comforting flavors. The Healthy Ground Chicken Slow Cooker recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delightful and nourishing dish. Give it a try, and watch as your family and friends come back for seconds!
