Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crockpot Turkey Chili Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 20 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A hearty and healthy turkey chili made with lean ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and bold chili spices. Slow cooking allows the flavors to blend beautifully for a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.


Ingredients

Meat & Vegetables

  • 700 g lean ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn, optional

Beans & Tomatoes

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes

Liquids & Pastes

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Spices & Herbs

  • 1½ tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Brown the Turkey: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground turkey thoroughly, breaking it apart as it cooks for even browning and flavor development.
  2. Transfer to Crockpot: Drain any excess liquid from the cooked turkey, then transfer the turkey into the crockpot to prepare for slow cooking.
  3. Add Vegetables and Beans: Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste into the crockpot with the turkey.
  4. Add Spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients in the crockpot. Stir well to combine all ingredients uniformly.
  5. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook the chili on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
  6. Add Corn: If using corn, stir it into the crockpot during the final 30 minutes of cooking to keep its texture crisp yet tender.
  7. Finish and Serve: Give the chili a final stir, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving to add brightness and freshness.

Notes

  • Use extra-lean turkey for a lighter chili with less fat.
  • Top with avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.
  • For a lower-carb option, reduce or omit the beans and increase vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for more fiber and nutrients.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course, Soup, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex