Cozy Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, then this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac recipe is just what you need. Packed with tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and rich spices, this dish brings together the heartiness of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese, all in the effortless magic of a slow cooker. Whether it’s a cold night or a busy day, this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac delivers easy satisfaction that sticks to your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort Food: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax or take care of other tasks.
• Ultimate Flavor Fusion: Smoky turkey bacon and vibrant spices create a bold chili flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy plant-based cheese.
• Family-Friendly: Mildly spicy and deeply satisfying, it’s a great choice for both kids and adults looking for a comforting meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Combining protein, carbs, and veggies in a single dish keeps cleanup easy and mealtime stress-free.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adjust the heat or swap ingredients to match your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac is carefully selected for simplicity and maximum flavor impact. Each element adds texture, richness, or a punch of smoky goodness that turns this dish into a full-bodied experience.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that soaks up the chili spices and stays juicy throughout slow cooking.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky depth that enhances the chili profile without overpowering other flavors.
• Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and chili spices.
• Plant-based cheese (shredded): Melts smoothly to create a rich, velvety texture throughout the mac.
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Infuse the dish with a bright, smoky sweetness essential for chili.
• Red kidney beans: Add heartiness and fiber, making each bite satisfyingly substantial.
• Chili powder and cumin (natural seasoning): Bring warmth and a hint of earthiness to every spoonful.
• Garlic and onion powders (natural seasoning): Foundational flavors that enhance the overall depth without needing fresh chopping.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds complexity and umami, balancing the spices and acidity.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): A touch of tanginess to brighten the slow-cooked flavors and soften richness.
• Natural gelling agent: Used to achieve smooth, luscious creaminess without relying on animal products.
• Vegetable broth: The liquid base that ties all the flavors together and keeps the mac perfectly saucy.

Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to tweak the recipe depending on your pantry staples, dietary needs, or flavor cravings it is built to adapt.

• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeño or chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy kick that wakes up the palate.
• Veggie boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra color and nutrients.
• Swap the pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies like zucchini for a lighter version.
• Plant-based protein twist: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas to keep it vegetarian.
• Cheese blend: Mix in different plant-based cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda (plant-based) for unique layers of flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Start by layering the bottom of your slow cooker with the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently to combine the spices evenly into the sauce base.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Place the chicken breasts on top of the sauce mixture. Then add chopped smoked turkey bacon scattered evenly to infuse the dish with its smoky flavor while cooking.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about 5-6 hours. This low and slow process allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the beautiful chili flavors.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it in for full flavor integration.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Natural Gelling Agent

Mix the elbow macaroni and a small amount of natural gelling agent into the slow cooker. Stir well and cook for another 20-30 minutes on high until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency.

Step 6: Stir in Plant-Based Cheese

Turn off the heat and fold in shredded plant-based cheese until it melts into a creamy layer that blankets every bite with cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

• Pre-cook smoked turkey bacon: For extra crispiness, cook the bacon slightly before adding it adds a better smokiness.
• Use fresh spices: Fresh chili powder and cumin give a fresher, bolder taste than older, stale spices.
• Don’t skip the vinegar: The apple cider vinegar balances richness and brightens flavors beautifully.
• Even pasta cooking: Add pasta later in the process to prevent it from becoming mushy during the long slow cooking.
• Stir gently: Use a gentle hand when mixing in shredded chicken and pasta to keep textures intact.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac

Garnishes

Top your Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of plant-based sour cream, or sliced green onions to add fresh bursts of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp mixed greens salad or garlic bread made with plant-based butter to complement and round out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners, serve the chili mac in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra plant-based cheese on top, or turn it into a layered casserole topped with crushed smoked turkey bacon bits for texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer them into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ready for a quick reheat on busy days.

Freezing

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac freezes well freeze in portioned freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture and fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a slightly richer flavor and staying tender during slow cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to give it more heat according to your taste.

What plant-based cheese works best?

Semi-soft melting cheeses like plant-based cheddar or mozzarella-style shreds melt smoothly and create the perfect creamy texture for this chili mac.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the chicken separately, then combine all ingredients in a large pot, simmering until pasta is tender and flavors meld nicely.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply use plant-based cheese and plant-based sour cream for garnishing, keeping the entire dish free from dairy products.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac is a true crowd-pleaser that wraps comfort, convenience, and bold flavors into one enticing dish. Whether you’re feeding family or craving a cozy solo meal, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So set your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of warmth and smoky, cheesy goodness.

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