This Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is hearty, flavorful, and packed with lean protein, beans, and vegetables the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights. It’s simple to prepare, healthy, and slow-cooked to perfection with warm spices that make every bite deliciously comforting.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb (450g) ground turkey (98% lean)
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth or stock
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)

Instructions

Brown the Turkey:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add the ground turkey. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Add Aromatics:
Stir in the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Add the cooked turkey and onions to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir everything well to combine.
Cook:
Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours, until the chili is thick and flavorful.
Serve:
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as green onions, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome and hearty: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and vegetables.
Effortless: Let the slow cooker do all the work — perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Easy to adjust spice levels and customize with your favorite ingredients.
Freezer-friendly: Great for meal prep and make-ahead dinners.

Tips

Brown the turkey first: This step adds more flavor and prevents the meat from clumping in the chili.
Adjust the spice level: Add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.
Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker texture, uncover the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Use low-sodium ingredients: Opt for low-sodium broth and beans to control the salt level.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the meat: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
Make it smoky: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Low-carb version: Skip the beans and corn, and add extra ground turkey or diced veggies instead.
Add grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice before serving for a heartier meal.

FAQs

Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Yes! After browning the turkey, add all ingredients to a large pot and simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes.

Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I thicken my chili?
Cook uncovered for a bit longer, or mash some of the beans with a spoon to release starch.

Is turkey chili healthy?
Yes — it’s high in protein, rich in fiber, and lower in fat than traditional beef chili.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve with warm cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.
Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Perfect for game days, cozy dinners, or meal prep lunches.