Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

There’s nothing quite like the comforting, hearty goodness of a warm bowl of chili on a chilly day. This Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is the perfect balance of rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and ease of preparation. Using lean ground turkey keeps the dish light without sacrificing protein or taste. Plus, cooking it low and slow in a crockpot allows all the spices and ingredients to meld beautifully, giving you a chili that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is your new go-to.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re on the hunt for a chili recipe that’s both nutritious and incredibly flavorful, this Slow Cooker Turkey Chili delivers on all fronts. It’s packed with protein and fiber from lean turkey and beans, while the combination of spices brings warmth and depth without overwhelming the palate. Using a slow cooker means minimal hands-on time — just prep your ingredients, set it, and forget it until dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you want something comforting without the hassle. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey, 98% lean
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 14.5-oz can tomato sauce
• 1 14.5-oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth or stock (ensure it’s free from non-permissible ingredients)
• 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 15-oz can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned

How To Make Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Turkey

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the turkey is no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika, stirring well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.

Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Once the turkey mixture is cooked through and seasoned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients well.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken naturally.

Step 4: Final Taste and Serve

Before serving, give the chili a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños, if you like.

Expert Tips

• For extra depth of flavor, brown the turkey and sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate.
• Make sure to rinse and drain canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
• Use fresh garlic and good quality spices for the best taste; spices lose potency over time.
• Feel free to double the recipe for easy meal prep or feeding a crowd, just adjust cooking times slightly if needed.
• To keep the dish gluten-free, verify that your chicken broth and canned tomato products are free from gluten-containing additives.

Variations and Customizations

• Spice Level: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your chili with some heat.
• Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
• Beans: Swap out kidney or black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas based on preference.
• Meat Alternative: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if desired.
• Vegan Version: Replace turkey with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, with crusty bread, or topped with avocado slices for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers

This chili keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout. You can also freeze leftover chili for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, label with the date, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this chili in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the turkey and sauté the onions and garlic. Then add all ingredients to the pot, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening.

Is ground turkey a healthy choice for chili?

Yes, ground turkey is a lean source of protein that’s lower in fat compared to beef. Using 98% lean turkey helps keep the chili light while still providing a satisfying meaty texture.

Can I omit the beans if I don’t like them?

You can, but beans add great texture, fiber, and nutrition to chili. If you skip them, consider adding extra vegetables or a bit more turkey to keep it hearty.

What toppings go well with this turkey chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice. Choose whatever suits your taste and dietary preferences.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is a delicious, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With wholesome ingredients, bold spices, and the convenience of slow cooking, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this chili offers a satisfying bowl of comfort and nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor!