Name: Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h 30 min
Total time: 6 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 86 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than the Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe. This vibrant chili combines tender shredded chicken, hearty quinoa, and smoky barbecue sauce to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for busy days or relaxed weekends. Its unique twist on classic chili delivers a delightful balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy notes, layered with textures that keep every bite interesting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two views of a black slow cooker on a white marbled surface. In the first view, there are three raw, pale pink chicken pieces placed evenly inside the cooker. In the second view, the cooker is filled with several layers of ingredients: in the top right corner, light tan sesame seeds float on dark brown sauce; below it, a large group of small black beans and to the left, bright yellow corn kernels are placed. On the bottom left side, white chopped onions are next to bright red diced tomatoes, with light brown ground spices sprinkled on top. The ingredients sit in a light brown broth filling the cooker halfway. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe calls for a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Each component contributes something special—from the smoky barbecue sauce adding depth, to quinoa bringing protein and texture, and fresh vegetables enhancing color and freshness.

Chicken breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
Quinoa: Adds a nutritious, slightly nutty texture that rounds out the chili beautifully.
Barbecue sauce: The star ingredient that introduces a rich, smoky sweetness.
Black beans and kidney beans: Provide heartiness and fiber, making this chili truly filling.
Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and vibrant color for a balanced flavor.
Onion and garlic: Build the aromatic base that infuses the chili with savory goodness.
Bell peppers: Add sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
Chili powder and cumin: Spice things up with classic chili seasoning.
Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and helps meld the flavors together.

How to Make Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. Meanwhile, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped at the beginning makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Layer Flavors in the Slow Cooker

Add the chicken breasts to the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers over the chicken. Then, pour in the rinsed quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. This layering lets the ingredients meld beautifully as the chili cooks low and slow.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Sprinkle the chili powder and cumin evenly across the ingredients, then pour in the chicken broth and barbecue sauce. The barbecue sauce is the magic touch here, infusing every bit with rich, smoky sweetness. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the seasonings with the liquids but don’t mix too vigorously — you want that layering effect to stay intact as it cooks.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for about 4 hours. The slow cooking tenderizes the chicken so much that it falls apart easily. Once done, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. Stir gently to distribute the shredded chicken evenly through the chili.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with thick chili, layered with shredded brownish-orange meat, dark red kidney beans, and yellow corn kernels in a rich dark reddish-brown sauce. On top, there is a smooth white cream layer, sprinkled with bright yellow shredded cheese, small pieces of chopped red onion, and green cilantro leaves. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially mixing the layers. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a light grey cloth napkin nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this chili even further, load it up with your favorite garnishes. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances the spice. Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions provide a bright, fresh lift, while shredded cheddar cheese melts luxuriously on top. For added texture, sprinkle on crushed tortilla chips or a squeeze of lime juice to make each spoonful pop.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with classic sides that complement its smoky and hearty flavors. Serve alongside warm cornbread for a touch of sweetness or a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. If you want to add extra comfort, cheesy garlic bread or steamed rice are excellent options to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this chili into a chili bowl by layering it over baked sweet potatoes or inside crispy tortilla shells. You can also use it as a filling for burritos or stuffed bell peppers, offering a creative way to enjoy your Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe and impress your guests with both flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. Before reheating, give it a good stir to redistribute the ingredients evenly.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later cravings or busy days, this chili freezes remarkably well. Cool the chili completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing that delicious smoky barbecue flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use a gentle defrost setting if microwaving. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick, ensuring your chili stays perfectly saucy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier during slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure they are tender and easy to shred.

Is quinoa necessary in this chili?

While quinoa adds a unique texture and boosts nutrition, you can omit it if preferred or replaced it with another grain like brown rice or barley, though it will change the overall consistency slightly.

How spicy is this chili?

This recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and barbecue sauce. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or including chopped jalapeños.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for the aromatics, then pressure cooking on high for about 15 minutes. Be sure to use the natural release to keep the quinoa from sticking.

What if I’m gluten-free?

This entire Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check that your barbecue sauce and broth are labeled gluten-free to be safe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to put together, and truly comforting, the Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Quinoa Chili Recipe is calling your name. It’s perfect for fueling your busy days or gathering friends around a steaming bowl of goodness. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again because it’s not just chili—it’s a celebration of smoky, hearty, wholesome deliciousness!