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Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Warm up with this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac packed with tender chicken thighs, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and rich spices for cozy comfort. This hearty dish blends the best of chili and classic macaroni, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or any time you crave a satisfying, flavorful meal that is effortlessly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Pasta

  • 2 cups small elbow macaroni (dry)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (natural)

Flavorings and Spices

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other

  • 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Chop smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and lightly crisp it in a skillet to enhance flavor. Season chicken thighs with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes (natural), chopped bell peppers, black beans, and the partially cooked smoked turkey bacon on top. Pour in apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Add Pasta and Thicken: Add dry macaroni into the slow cooker and sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the top. Gently stir to distribute ingredients, but avoid excessive stirring to maintain layering.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and flavors meld.
  5. Add Plant-Based Cheese and Finish: Once cooking is complete, shred or cut chicken pieces directly in the slow cooker. Stir in shredded plant-based cheese and allow it to melt evenly for creamy texture throughout.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact.
  • Layer ingredients thoughtfully to keep pasta from becoming mushy and chicken juicy.
  • Adjust liquids for preferred thickness or add more natural gelling agent as needed.
  • Check pasta doneness and adjust cooking time depending on your slow cooker.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes after cooking to thicken and develop flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken chili mac, comfort food, plant-based cheese, smoky turkey bacon, gluten-free, meal prep

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/slow-cooker-chicken-chili-mac/