Your favorite crockpot turkey chili just got a delicious upgrade! This recipe transforms the classic comfort food into a hearty, flavorful dish that not only warms the soul but is also incredibly easy to prepare. Imagine coming home to the inviting aroma of spices mingling with tender turkey and fresh vegetables, all bubbling away in your slow cooker. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.
What sets this crockpot turkey chili apart is its wonderful blend of flavors and textures. By using lean turkey, a medley of beans, and a variety of spices, this dish is not only satisfying but also healthier than traditional beef chili. Plus, with its hands-off cooking method, you can enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious crockpot turkey chili: lean ground turkey canned beans
- 1 pound lean ground turkey – a healthier alternative to beef that still offers great flavor
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – adds protein and fiber
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – for a hearty texture
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – forms the base of the chili
- 1 medium onion, chopped – for sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances flavor significantly
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green) – adds color and sweetness
- 2 tablespoons chili powder – the key spice for authentic chili flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – adds warmth and earthiness
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – gives a subtle smokiness
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for balancing flavors
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth – for moisture and richness
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado – for added flavor and texture
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to create this comforting dish: Nutritious Mashed Potatoes
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to the crockpot.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado.
What else can I add to this crockpot turkey chili?
You can absolutely play around with the ingredients while keeping the chili vibe intact. Here are some delicious variations:
- Add corn for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Stir in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrients.
- Use different types of beans, such as pinto or cannellini, for varied textures.
- Experiment with different spices, like cayenne pepper for added heat or oregano for an Italian twist.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your crockpot turkey chili turns out perfectly: chili variations Biscuit Pot Pie
- Tip: For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth slightly or cook it uncovered for the last hour.
- Tip: Using fresh ingredients, especially spices, can significantly enhance the flavor.
- Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip browning the turkey; just add it directly to the crockpot. It will break apart while cooking.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze crockpot turkey chili?
A: Yes, this chili freezes well! Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: The spice level depends on the chili powder and any additional spices you choose to add. For a milder version, use less chili powder and omit any hot peppers.
Q: How long does it take to cook?
A: Cooking on low takes about 6-8 hours, while cooking on high will take 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
This crockpot turkey chili is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly. It’s perfect for meal prep, game days, or cozy family dinners. Every bite offers warmth and satisfaction, ensuring you’ll want to make it again and again. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy the comforting aroma of this delicious dish filling your home!
Crockpot Turkey Chili
A delicious and upgraded version of classic comfort food, this crockpot turkey chili is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. It's a wholesome meal perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
-
1 pound lean ground turkey
-
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
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Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado
Directions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to the crockpot.
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Add the black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
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Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
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Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado.
