Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
why make this recipe
Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili is a fantastic meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with lean protein from the ground turkey, loaded with fiber from the beans, and brimming with flavor. This dish is comforting and warm, making it ideal for chilly nights. Plus, it allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time while it cooks.
how to make Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1½ lbs ground turkey (93% lean ideal)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar & green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
Sauté Magic: In a skillet, heat the oil and add chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is browned. Stir in the tomato paste for 1 minute. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
Build the Flavor: Add minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, rinsed black beans, rinsed kidney beans, chicken broth, and the spices to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine well.
Slow Simmer: Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. If you’re home, stir it halfway through the cooking time.
Taste & Tweak: Once done, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning. For a bright flavor, stir in a bit of lime juice or vinegar.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, green onions, or avocado, if you like!
how to serve Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
Serve this chili hot in a bowl, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. You can also pair it with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal. It’s great for feeding a crowd or for a cozy night in.
how to store Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
If you have leftovers, let the chili cool and then store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 3 months.
tips to make Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like corn or zucchini, to add more nutrition and flavor.
- For a spicier chili, add some chopped jalapeños or more chili powder.
- Always taste before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
variation
You can swap ground turkey for ground beef, chicken, or plant-based meat if you’d like. Also, changing the beans or adding different spices can give the chili a whole new flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this chili spicier?
Add more chili powder, fresh jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give it that extra kick.
Can I cook it overnight?
Cooking on LOW for 6–8 hours is perfect if you start it in the morning, but leaving a slow cooker on overnight is not recommended for safety reasons.
