Description
Crock Pot Turkey Chili is a hearty and healthy variation of the classic chili recipe. Instead of using higher-fat meats like ground beef, this recipe uses lean ground turkey to create a lighter yet equally flavorful version. By using the slow cooker (Crock Pot), the ingredients have time to meld together, creating a depth of flavor that you simply can’t rush. This chili is packed with nutritious ingredients like beans, vegetables, and spices, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days, as it cooks itself while you go about your routine.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean ground turkey
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Canned Goods:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Spices & Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
- 1 square dark chocolate (for richness)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Cornbread or crusty bread
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Prep the Turkey (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the ground turkey in batches, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes until no longer pink.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Transfer mixture to your crock pot.
Note: You can skip this step and add raw turkey directly to the crock pot, but browning adds extra flavor.
Assemble in Crock Pot:
- Add all remaining ingredients to the crock pot: crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, all beans, green chiles, chicken broth, and all spices.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add tomato paste and mix thoroughly.
Cook:
- High heat: 3-4 hours
- Low heat: 6-8 hours
Final Steps:
- Taste and adjust seasoning about 30 minutes before serving.
- Add corn (if using) in the last 30 minutes.
- Stir in chocolate (if using) in the last 15 minutes for added richness.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Bowl: Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions
- Chili Mac: Serve over cooked macaroni or rice
- Loaded Baked Potato: Spoon over baked sweet potatoes
- Chili Dogs: Use as a topping for hot dogs
- Nachos: Pour over tortilla chips with cheese
Storage & Meal Prep:
- Refrigerator: Keeps for 4-5 days
- Freezer: Stores for up to 3 months
- Portion control: Freeze in individual containers for easy meals
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth if chili becomes too thick
Notes
This hearty turkey chili is perfect for make-ahead meals—just store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for an easy reheat later. Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3 hours (on high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow-Cooked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Crock Pot Turkey Chili Recipe