If you’re craving comfort food without the guilt, this turkey slow cooker chili is your perfect go-to recipe. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with lean protein from ground turkey and fiber-rich beans. The best part? Your slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Slow Cooker Chili
There’s something wonderful about coming home to a warm pot of chili simmering in the slow cooker. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of chili spices with tender ground turkey and creamy beans for a meal that’s both healthy and comforting.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Effortless cooking — toss everything in and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
- Healthy & filling — made with lean turkey and nutrient-packed beans.
- Perfect for meal prep — it reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners.
- Family-friendly flavor — mild spice that can be easily adjusted.
- Customizable — make it vegetarian, spicy, or even low-carb.
Ingredients for Turkey Slow Cooker Chili
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Turkey: Use 93% lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. Ground chicken also works.
- Beans: Mix it up with pinto or white beans for a different texture.
- Broth: Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Spices: Want more heat? Add a diced jalapeño or ½ teaspoon cayenne.
- No alcohol needed: This chili uses broth instead of beer or wine, keeping it family-safe and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Brown the Turkey
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until it starts to brown, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 2 – Add Vegetables
Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
Step 3 – Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked turkey mixture to your slow cooker.
Step 4 – Add Remaining Ingredients
Add crushed tomatoes, both types of beans, broth, and all seasonings. Stir to combine well.
Step 5 – Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours, until the chili thickens and flavors blend beautifully.
Step 6 – Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Success
- Brown your turkey first — it locks in flavor and prevents a mushy texture.
- Don’t skip the beans rinse — it removes excess sodium.
- Layer your spices — adding some early and some just before serving brightens flavor.
- Use the right slow cooker size — a 5- to 6-quart model works best.
- Let it rest — chili tastes even better after sitting for 15 minutes.
- Freeze leftovers in single portions for quick lunches.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace turkey with lentils, mushrooms, or tofu crumbles.
- Spicy Southwest: Add corn, jalapeños, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- White Turkey Chili: Use white beans, green chiles, and a creamy base instead of tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the beans and add more bell peppers and zucchini.
- Smoky BBQ Chili: Add 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or brown rice.
- Top with shredded cheese, cilantro, or sliced avocado for color and flavor.
- Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For game day, set out a “chili bar” with bowls of toppings so everyone can customize.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove or in the microwave.
- Chili often tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 640mg |
(Nutrition values are approximate and based on 1 of 6 servings.)
FAQ About Turkey Slow Cooker Chili
How do I make this chili thicker?
If your chili turns out thinner than you’d like, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let extra liquid evaporate. You can also stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste or mashed beans.
Can I make it on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Brown the turkey and veggies as usual, then add all ingredients to a pot. Simmer over low heat for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I use frozen ground turkey?
You can, but be sure to thaw it first. Cooking frozen turkey directly may result in uneven texture.
Is this chili spicy?
This version is mild, but you can easily increase heat by adding jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
What can I serve with turkey chili?
It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a side salad.
Final Thoughts
This turkey slow cooker chili is a crowd-pleasing, nutritious dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe guarantees cozy comfort in every bite — with none of the hassle.
Print
Easy Turkey Slow Cooker Chili – Healthy & Delicious
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty, healthy turkey slow cooker chili made with lean turkey, beans, and bold spices — easy, delicious, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground turkey
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Brown the turkey in olive oil until lightly cooked.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until soft.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, beans, broth, and spices; stir well.
5. Cover and cook on low 6 hours or high 3 hours.
6. Serve with toppings of choice.
Notes
For vegetarian chili, substitute turkey with lentils or mushrooms. Use low-sodium beans and broth for a heart-healthy version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Dish, Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
