Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey is your new go-to. It’s a crowd-pleaser packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, slow-simmered to perfection. This recipe transforms simple ingredients like ground turkey, beans, and diced tomatoes into a rich, satisfying chili that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chili is a versatile and nutritious choice. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and side dishes.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey recipe delivers consistent results every time because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that meld beautifully over slow cooking. Using a slow cooker ensures even heat distribution, allowing the flavors of the chili powder, cumin, and paprika to infuse the turkey and beans thoroughly without drying out the meat. Ground turkey is lean yet juicy with the right amount of olive oil and broth, making the chili rich without excess fat. The combination of kidney and black beans adds texture and nutrition, while the diced tomatoes provide a tangy base. It’s a straightforward recipe, perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal waiting for you, and it’s easy to tweak according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

What to Buy

• 1 pound ground turkey – Choose lean but not extra-lean for more flavor and moisture.
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans – Drained and rinsed to reduce sodium and prevent a heavy bean taste.
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans – Also drained and rinsed for the perfect bean balance.
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes – Opt for no-salt-added if available for more control over seasoning.
• 1 medium onion – Yellow or white, diced finely for a subtle sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced fresh garlic adds essential aroma and depth.
• 1 bell pepper – Any color, diced for sweetness and texture.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – The star spice for that classic chili flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds earthiness and warmth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Smoked or sweet, it enhances color and subtle smoky notes.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, balancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Provides moisture and richness; low sodium is preferred.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the turkey and vegetables.
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro.

Must-Have Equipment

• Slow cooker – Essential for gently cooking and melding flavors over several hours.
• Large skillet – For browning the ground turkey and sautéing vegetables before adding to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board and sharp knife – To dice onions, garlic, and bell pepper.
• Measuring spoons – For precise seasoning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and breaking up the meat during cooking.
• Can opener – To open canned beans and tomatoes.

Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and chopping the bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the kidney and black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canned flavor. Open the diced tomato can and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth and prevents the turkey from becoming rubbery in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the cooked turkey and vegetables into your slow cooker. Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth for extra moisture and to help the flavors meld as it cooks.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low will develop richer flavors and tenderize the ingredients perfectly.

Step 6: Final Taste and Serve

Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired. Serve hot with your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• In spring or summer, lighten up the chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of cheese and serve with a squeeze of lime.
• Add corn kernels or diced zucchini for extra vegetables and color.
• For fall and winter, top with melted cheese and serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread.
• Make it a one-pot meal by stirring in cooked quinoa or brown rice before serving.
• Try swapping ground turkey for ground chicken or use a mixture of turkey and beef for a richer flavor.
• For a twist, check out Turkey Chorizo Stuffed Peppers — another fantastic way to enjoy ground turkey with bold spices.

What Could Go Wrong

• Dry or tough turkey: Browning the turkey with olive oil prevents dryness. Avoid overcooking by sticking to recommended slow cooker times.
• Chili too watery: If your chili is too thin, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.
• Undercooked beans: Using canned beans eliminates this risk, but always rinse and drain to avoid a mushy texture.
• Flavor imbalance: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning; chili powder and salt are key to a well-rounded flavor.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey Q&A

Can I make this chili vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Skip the ground turkey and use extra beans or plant-based meat substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add some smoked paprika or chipotle powder for depth.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can make this chili on the stovetop. Brown the turkey and vegetables in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on low heat, covered, for about an hour, stirring occasionally until thick and flavorful.

How spicy is this chili?

This chili has a moderate spice level from the chili powder and paprika, but it isn’t overly spicy. Feel free to add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute. The cooking process and times remain the same, and the chili will still be flavorful and hearty.

Keep Cooking

• Try out these Turkey Burgers With Tzatziki for a fresh, flavorful twist on ground turkey.
• Looking for a colorful stuffed dish? The Turkey Chorizo Stuffed Peppers bring bold spices and turkey together beautifully.
• For a comforting soup, check out hearty lentil recipes or chicken tortilla soup for more slow cooker inspiration.
• Explore homemade spice blends to elevate your next chili or stew.

Make It Tonight

If you’re short on time but craving this Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey, you can speed things up by browning the turkey and veggies tonight, then refrigerate them. In the morning, combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours. Dinner will be ready by the time you get home. Or, if you’re in a real hurry, use the stovetop method described in the Q&A to enjoy this flavorful chili in under an hour.

With its balance of lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and bold spices, this Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Turkey is the perfect meal to keep you cozy and satisfied. It’s simple, flexible, and packed with flavor — a true weeknight hero.

Share on Pinterest