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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Lentil and Quinoa Chili

Hearty Slow Cooker Lentil and Quinoa Chili for Busy Nights

This Slow Cooker Lentil and Quinoa Chili is a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal perfect for busy nights, providing comfort and satisfaction for everyone.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 large Onion Use yellow or white onion for sweetness
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best; adjust quantity to taste
  • 2 stalks Celery Can be omitted if not available
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers Substitute with any available peppers
  • 28 ounces Diced Tomatoes Canned works great; crushed for smoother texture
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness
  • 1 cup Water Adjust based on desired consistency
For the Protein
  • 1 cup Dried Lentils Green or brown recommended; red cooks faster
  • 1 can Pinto Beans Substitute with black or kidney beans if desired
For the Spice Blend
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust for desired heat
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin Freshly ground intensifies flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Substitute with Italian seasoning if desired
For the Thickener
  • 1 cup Quinoa Can swap with farro or omit
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste depending on broth and beans

Equipment

  • slow cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Combine chopped onion, minced garlic, diced celery, and bell peppers in the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water, then stir in lentils, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, quinoa, and kosher salt.
  2. Cover and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The chili is ready when the lentils and quinoa are tender.
  3. Remove the lid and ladle portions into bowls. Garnish with diced avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Adjust spices to taste and feel free to customize toppings for each serving.

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