Many families striving to live a simpler life find themselves needing help to balance their budgets and precious time. Instead of resorting to expensive takeout or eating out, the solution may be as simple as pulling out your slow cooker, a.k.a. the Crockpot. This versatile kitchen appliance is a game-changer for creating budget-friendly, healthy, and delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen after a busy day. In the quest for a simple life, the Crockpot is the best tool for balancing convenience, savings, and healthy meals.
Start this eight-hour slow cooker recipe in the morning for a creamy and flavorful white chicken chili when you get home.
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 can corn, undrained
- 1 can Ro-Tel, undrained
- 1 package ranch dressing mix
- 1 8oz package of cream cheese
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp pepper
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat oil and cook onions for eight minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for one minute.
- Set CrockPot on low and add chicken, onions, garlic, corn, black beans, Ro-Tel, ranch mix, spices and water. Stir.
- Add cream cheese on top, cover and cook for 6-8 hours.
- Before serving, shred the chicken using two forks.
Serving suggestions
Fresh sourdough bread or dinner rolls go great with the chili! One of my daughters scoops hers with tortilla chips. If you want to get creative with it, you could also wrap it inside a tortilla shell and add cheese or add it to a hotdog for a chili dog. It has a little spice but incredible flavor!
How your slow cooker saves you time and money
Your slow cooker is your secret weapon for living a simpler life. This versatile kitchen appliance can transform budget-friendly ingredients into delicious dishes that not only satisfy your family but also stretch your dollars, making it an excellent choice. Here are five ways your Crockpot helps you save time and money:
1. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
One of the key advantages of Crockpot cooking is that it can transform budget-friendly ingredients into tasty dishes. Tough cuts of meat, beans, and seasonal vegetables can be your best friends when trying to stretch your grocery budget. You can feed your family hearty, nutritious meals without breaking the bank.
2. Minimal Energy Consumption
Crockpots are designed to be energy efficient. They use less electricity compared to traditional stovetop cooking or oven baking. So, not only are you saving money on ingredients, but you’re also reducing your energy bills.
3. Batch Cooking
Crockpots are ideal for cooking in large quantities. You can prepare a substantial amount of food in one go and have leftovers for additional meals. This eliminates the need for frequent takeout or dining out, saving money, and reducing food waste.
4. Time-Saving Convenience
Crockpot cooking is a time-saving miracle. All it takes is some quick preparation in the morning, and you can forget about it for the rest of the day. You can go to work, run errands, or spend quality time with your family. Say goodbye to the stress of last-minute meal planning and the hassle of cooking after a long day.
5. Healthy Meals
You don’t have to sacrifice health for convenience and savings. Slow cooking at lower temperatures can retain more nutrients in your ingredients. You can create wholesome, nutrient-rich meals that your family will love.
By embracing Crockpot cooking, you can enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals that keep your family’s well-being at the forefront. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your meal prep!
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