Make this Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili tonight. It’s a hearty and delicious dish filled with rich flavors and a medley of spices. Perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite comfort food! This Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is not just simple—it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that transform into a satisfying meal with very little effort. You’ll love the combination of ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and a variety of beans simmering to perfection in your slow cooker. The rich tomato flavor, accompanied by a hint of spice, will warm you up on chilly evenings. Plus, it makes for easy leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day. So, let’s get started on creating a deliciously easy meal that you and your loved ones will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. neutral oil
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 1/2 lb. ground turkey
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 (28-oz.) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Shredded cheddar, for garnish
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables and Turkey
Start by heating the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and the chopped green bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until softened, which should take about 4 minutes. Next, add the ground turkey, cooking until it’s golden brown but not fully cooked through. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook this until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Transferring to the Slow Cooker
Once your turkey and vegetables are ready, transfer the entire mixture into your slow cooker. Add the chopped tomatoes, rinsed black beans, rinsed kidney beans, low-sodium chicken broth, chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Stir everything together to ensure the spices and ingredients are well distributed.
Cooking Time and Adjustments
Set your slow cooker to high and let it cook for 4 hours. After this time, check the chili’s thickness and taste. If you want a thicker consistency, you can leave the lid off and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Your chili is now ready to enjoy!
Recipe Tips
To enhance your Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili, consider these tips:
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to customize your chili, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground beef or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use a mix of beans or even lentils! Feel free to experiment with different types of beans and vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Thickening the Chili
If your chili turns out too watery, don’t worry! You can remove the lid and cook on high for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. Alternatively, mashing a few beans will naturally thicken the chili. This creates a heartier texture while adding richness to the flavor. Top with your favorite cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added creaminess!
What To Serve With Turkey Chili
This Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, which adds a subtle sweetness and great texture. Cinnamon rolls make for a delightful contrast, or you could serve it with Hawaiian roll sliders for a fun, interactive meal. Each of these pairings enhances the chili experience, creating a cozy and satisfying dinner that your family will love.
Storage Guidelines
Leftover turkey chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. You can also freeze portions for later use; it reheats wonderfully and still maintains its rich flavor.
FAQ
Do I have to brown the ground turkey before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning the ground turkey enhances the flavor but is not necessary. You can add it directly to the slow cooker if you prefer.
How long should I cook the chili on high versus low heat?
Cook the chili on high for 4 hours or on low for about 8 hours.
Can I substitute ground beef or chicken for the ground turkey?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef or chicken for the ground turkey!
Is it possible to make this chili without beans?
Absolutely! You can omit the beans or substitute them with more vegetables.
How do I thicken the chili if it turns out too watery?
To thicken the chili, remove the lid and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour or mash some of the beans.
Conclusion
Now that you have this Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights in, this chili is sure to please your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your home!
For more delightful recipes and inspiration, explore our Christmas Recipes Collection, and check out the Best Of Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili on Pinterest!
Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. neutral oil
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 1/2 lb. ground turkey
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 (28-oz.) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Shredded cheddar, for garnish
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet and cook onion and bell pepper until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in ground turkey and cook until golden.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add garlic and tomato paste, cooking until fragrant.
- Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, and spices.
- Cook on high for 4 hours until thickened and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with cheese and green onions before serving.
Notes
