This Easy Turkey Slow Cooker Chili is a perfect blend of tender ground turkey, hearty beans, and bold spices, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this chili is easy to prepare and makes enough to feed a hungry crowd. Whether you enjoy it with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free, making it a versatile option for different dietary needs.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked turkey mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, and chopped bell pepper to the slow cooker.
- Season with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Tips for Making the Best Turkey Slow Cooker Chili
- Use Fresh Ingredients
While canned beans and tomatoes make this dish convenient, using freshly chopped vegetables and high-quality spices can enhance the overall flavor. - Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For those who like it extra spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. - Thicken Your Chili
If you want a thicker consistency, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot and stir. - Add a Smoky Twist
Adding a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a splash of liquid smoke can give the chili a delicious smoky depth.
Perfect Pairings
- Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread perfectly complements the savory flavors of this chili.
- Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- Toppings Bar: Create a chili toppings bar with options like shredded cheese, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, and crushed tortilla chips. This can make dinner more fun, especially for families or gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This chili freezes exceptionally well! Divide it into portion-sized containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Health Benefits of Turkey Chili
- Lean Protein: Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, making this chili a healthier alternative to traditional beef-based versions.
- Rich in Fiber: The combination of black beans and kidney beans provides a hearty dose of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Low in Fat: Compared to beef chili, this recipe is lower in saturated fat, making it a great option for those watching their fat intake.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option
Swap the ground turkey for a plant-based protein, such as textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, or a medley of extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. The flavor remains hearty, and the dish becomes suitable for vegetarians or vegans. - Kid-Friendly Version
Reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to make a milder, more kid-friendly chili. Adding a touch of honey can balance out the spices and give it a slightly sweeter flavor that kids will love. - Low-Carb Adaptation
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, skip the beans and increase the amount of turkey and bell peppers. You can also add cauliflower rice for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Cornbread: A slice of freshly baked cornbread with a drizzle of honey pairs beautifully with the chili’s savory flavors.
- Taco-Style: Serve the chili over crispy tortilla chips or soft tacos, topped with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of guacamole.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the chili over a bed of steamed rice or cooked quinoa for a hearty meal.
- In Bread Bowls: Hollow out small, round bread loaves and use them as edible bowls for a fun, rustic presentation.
Nutrition Benefits
- High in Protein
Ground turkey and beans make this dish an excellent source of protein, helping to keep you feeling full for longer. - Rich in Fiber
Beans are a great source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. - Low in Saturated Fat
Compared to traditional beef chili, this recipe is lower in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy alternative. - Packed with Antioxidants
The tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices like paprika and cumin are rich in antioxidants, which support overall health and immunity.
Conclusion:
This Easy Turkey Slow Cooker Chili is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, healthy, and bursting with bold flavors. The slow cooking process not only enhances the taste but also creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or meal prepping, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
Whether served with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or enjoyed on its own, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. It’s adaptable, gluten-free, and can be customized with your preferred level of heat and favorite toppings. Once you try this easy-to-make chili, it’ll be a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. Happy cooking!