Name: Crockpot Turkey Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491721H47M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 2 lbs Lean Ground Turkey; 1 Onion, chopped; 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped; 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped; 28 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned); 3 cups Chicken Broth; 3 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 2 tablespoons Chili Powder; 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder; ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper; Salt and Pepper, to taste; 1 Bay Leaf; 15 oz Black Beans, rinsed and drained; 15 oz Dark Red Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained; 15 oz Cannellini Beans, rinsed and drained

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As the aroma of simmering spices wafts through your kitchen, you can’t help but feel a sense of comfort and warmth. Picture a pot full of hearty taco-spiced turkey, mixed with vibrant peppers and savory beans, all bubbling gently in your trusty crockpot. This is not just any meal; it’s a pot of Crockpot Turkey Chili that invites gatherings, cozy nights on the couch, and even that last-minute game day celebration. The colors are vibrant—reds, greens, and earthy browns, giving you that cozy feeling you only get with homemade meals.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Chili
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Turkey Chili

I remember the first time I made chili. It was a crisp autumn evening, and I was about to host a little gathering for friends. The kitchen quickly became a warm sanctuary, filled with laughter and the aroma of spices. This Crockpot Turkey Chili recipe not only warmed our bellies but also our hearts as we shared stories over steaming bowls. I guarantee this chili will quickly become a staple in your home, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So, let’s get cooking and fill your home with that delicious, inviting smell!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 15 minutes to get everything in the crockpot, then let it work its magic for 6 hours!
Irresistible Flavor: Rich, hearty, and loaded with spices, each spoonful will be a delightful explosion of taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful blend of fresh veggies and beans makes for a visually stunning dish.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a cozy dinner, a game day feast, or meal prep, this chili fits right in.
Diet-Friendly Options: It’s packed with lean turkey and beans, making it a nutritious choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon to sauté the turkey, enhancing its flavor. You can also use avocado oil for a similar effect.
Lean Ground Turkey (2 lbs): This is the star of your chili, offering a lighter protein option. Feel free to substitute with ground chicken or beef if you prefer.
Onion (1, chopped): It adds sweetness and depth. You might also use shallots or green onions for a different twist.
Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives a beautiful punch of flavor. Garlic powder is a backup but won’t impart the same richness.
Red and Green Bell Peppers (1 each, chopped): Their bright colors and sweetness complement the dish perfectly. You can swap them for yellow peppers or even use jalapeños for some heat.
Diced Tomatoes (28 oz can): These create a rich base. Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an added smokiness if you’re feeling adventurous.
Chicken Broth (3 cups): It deepens the flavor. Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
Tomato Paste (3 tablespoons): This thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor. For a more robust taste, you might try using sun-dried tomato paste.
Chili Powder (2 tablespoons): Essential for that classic chili flavor. Consider using smoked chili powder for a different dimension.
Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon): Earthy and warm, it’s a must-have spice for chili. Store-bought taco seasoning could be used as a shortcut.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): It enhances the smokiness; regular paprika can substitute if you don’t have it.
Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of herbal flavor. Italian seasoning could serve in a pinch.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): For a layered garlic flavor; feel free to skip if you’re already using fresh garlic.
Cayenne Pepper (¼ teaspoon): For those who like a bit of spice, adjust this according to your heat preference.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning overall. Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice touch.
Bay Leaf (1): Infuses the chili with a subtle aroma. Just remember to remove it before serving!
Black Beans (15 oz can, rinsed and drained): Adds protein and fiber! You can use pinto beans as an alternative.
Dark Red Kidney Beans (15 oz can, rinsed and drained): These provide a hearty texture. Feel free to skip them or reuse your favorite varieties.
Cannellini Beans (15 oz can, rinsed and drained): Their creamy texture complements the other beans perfectly. You can replace them with more black or red beans if preferred.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey Chili

Sauté and Brown: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the lean ground turkey along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. You want it to be cooked through, losing its pink color without burning the garlic. Transfer this mixture to your crockpot.

Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the chopped red and green bell peppers, the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice), chicken broth, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t forget the bay leaf! Stir everything together until well mixed, allowing the spices to coat all the veggies and turkey.

Set and Forget: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This is the best part—let it simmer low and slow until the flavors meld and the vegetables are tender. The crockpot does all the work while you enjoy your day!

Add Beans: About an hour before serving, stir in the rinsed and drained black beans, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. This warm-up phase lets them soak in the chili’s delightful flavors without turning mushy, keeping that perfect texture you want in every bite.

Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls that await your favorite toppings. Perhaps a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of hot sauce? This is your moment to get creative and add that personal touch to each bowl!

Storing & Reheating

To store your Crockpot Turkey Chili, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it lasts for about 3-4 days. To freeze, transfer the chili to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn— it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot. The flavors will continue to develop, but be aware that the beans may soften slightly over time. To refresh it, stir in a splash of broth when reheating.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t rush the browning! Take your time to brown the turkey properly for deeper flavor.
For a smoother chili, mash some beans before adding them for a creamier texture.
Adjust the spiciness! Start with less cayenne if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more as you taste.
If you like a thicker chili, leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes to let it reduce and thicken.
Make it ahead! This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later.

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma and warm comfort of a bowl of this Crockpot Turkey Chili. It’s hearty, filling, and brings a sense of joy and satisfaction with every bite. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and try out different toppings for a personalized touch. Embrace the cozy season by gathering friends and family around the table for bowls of joy. You’ll soon find this comforting recipe is a staple in your home, making every gathering feel warmer and more inviting.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! Crockpot Turkey Chili is perfect for meal prep and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

What can I serve with turkey chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. Feel free to get creative with toppings—shredded cheese, jalapeños, or avocado work beautifully!

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses lean ground turkey, you can substitute it with ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is this chili spicy?

The spice level can easily be adjusted. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or skip it entirely. You can always add more spice to individual servings if desired!