Nothing warms you up quite like a hearty bowl of turkey chili. 

Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for game day, this slow cooker turkey chili is a must-have in your recipe repertoire. 

Simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and wonderfully filling, it’s the perfect meal to cozy up with during the colder months.

Why Slow Cooker Chili?

Slow cookers are a game-changer for making chili. 

The “low and slow” cooking method allows flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of taste that’s hard to beat. 

Plus, using a slow cooker makes the process virtually hands-free. Just set it, forget it, and come back to a delicious meal.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

This turkey chili is packed with nutritious and flavorful ingredients:

Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative to beef, providing a lighter taste without sacrificing heartiness.

Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These add a subtle smoky sweetness that elevates the chili’s flavor.

Corn: Brightens the dish with a sweet pop that balances the spices.

Black Beans and Kidney Beans: They contribute a creamy texture and are excellent sources of protein and fiber.

Preparation Tips

For the best chili, start by browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables. This step adds a layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Heat the Oil: Use a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the Veggies: Add a chopped yellow onion and a red bell pepper. Cook until they’re tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Brown the Turkey: Add 2 pounds of ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until it’s no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes.

Add Flavor: Stir in 3 chopped garlic cloves and 1/4 cup of tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Slow Cooking Process

Transfer the cooked mixture to your slow cooker and add:

2 cans (14.5 oz each) of fire-roasted tomatoes, with juices

1 can (15 oz) each of black beans and kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup of frozen corn kernels

1 1/2 cups of chicken broth

2 teaspoons of chili powder

1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon each of salt and ground black pepper

Stir everything together, cover, and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. 

Once done, reduce the heat to warm and serve straight from the slow cooker.

Serving Suggestions

Top your chili with shredded pepper jack cheese, diced avocado, and crunchy corn chips for an extra layer of deliciousness. 

Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for a Super Bowl party, these garnishes take the dish to the next level.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chili is perfect for meal prep. Prepare everything up to the slow cooker step and store the mixture in the refrigerator overnight. 

In the morning, just plug in the slow cooker and go about your day. Cooked chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. 

When ready to eat, simply reheat and enjoy.

Nutritional Information

This turkey chili isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious too. 

Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied.

Yield: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Conclusion

This slow cooker turkey chili is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. 

Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, it’s the ultimate winter comfort food. Give it a try and let it warm up your winter nights!

Ready to enjoy the coziest meal of the season? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!