Crockpot Turkey Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. With all its flavors developing beautifully over several hours in your slow cooker, this recipe not only brings warmth but also loads of nutrition in every bowl. You will love how simple it is to throw everything in the pot and let it do the work for you while you go about your day.
Why We Love This Crockpot Turkey Chili Recipe
There are endless reasons to adore this Crockpot Turkey Chili! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep work, you can get your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget it for hours. Not only is the cooking process hands-off, but it also results in a rich, flavorful dish full of wholesome ingredients. The use of ground turkey provides a lean protein option that makes this chili a healthier choice compared to traditional chili recipes. Plus, with black beans, kidney beans, corn, and tomatoes, you get an array of nutrients and fiber that keeps you full and satisfied. This dish is versatile too—perfect for cozy nights in, game days, or even potlucks. Each serving is a delightful balance of flavors, warmth, and convenience, creating a meal that is bound to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients about Crockpot Turkey Chili
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Chili Directions
Making this delicious Crockpot Turkey Chili is a straightforward process. Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. It’s always a good idea to have everything prepped before you get started. First, crumble the ground turkey directly into the crockpot. This will serve as the protein base of your chili.
Next, take the canned black beans and kidney beans. Open the cans, drain them, and rinse them to remove excess sodium before adding them to your slow cooker. Then, pour in the can of diced tomatoes without draining. This will add moisture and acidity that enhances the chili’s flavor.
If you are using frozen corn, simply add it in; if you’re using canned corn, be sure to drain it thoroughly first. Now, chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves before adding them in as well. The aromatic qualities released during cooking will elevate your chili.
Now that you have added all the main ingredients, it’s time to spice things up! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and season generously with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Pour in the chicken broth to help the ingredients merge and bubble together beautifully during the cooking process.
Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices and ingredients are well distributed. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. As you go about your day, the wonderful aromas will fill your home, preparing you for a delicious meal. Once the cooking time is up, check the consistency; if you prefer a thicker chili, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. Serve it hot!
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Chili
Serving your Crockpot Turkey Chili can be just as fun as making it! Start by ladling the delicious chili into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a mix of beans, turkey, and vegetables. You can dress up your chili however you like!
Consider offering toppings such as shredded cheese, diced green onions, sour cream, or freshly chopped cilantro. Each of these toppings adds a unique flavor and texture that can transform your chili experience. You might also want to serve it alongside crusty bread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for an extra filling meal.
For gatherings, a big pot of chili can be the star of your table, encouraging guests to help themselves and customize their bowls. Whatever way you choose to serve it, this Crockpot Turkey Chili is bound to impress both family and friends alike!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Turkey Chili
To ensure your Crockpot Turkey Chili turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips. First, choose high-quality ground turkey, preferably a mix of dark and light meat for added flavor and moisture. If you’re prone to cooking with more liquid, feel free to adjust the chicken broth slightly by starting with less and adding more later if needed.
Don’t skip on the rinsing of beans! This simple step can cut down on sodium and improve the overall healthiness of your dish. If you want your chili to have a kick, you can add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding your spices.
Another great tip is to let your chili sit for a while before serving, if possible. Allowing it to rest lets the flavors meld together more significantly, making it even tastier. Lastly, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor layer, or even add a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten everything up!
How to Store Crockpot Turkey Chili
Properly storing your Crockpot Turkey Chili can extend its shelf life and keep it fresh for you. Allow the chili to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it excellent for meal prep or leftovers.
If you’ve made a larger batch or want to keep it longer, consider freezing your chili. First, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Your chili can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Variation of Crockpot Turkey Chili
One of the best things about Chili is its versatility. You can tailor this Crockpot Turkey Chili to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a spicier chili, adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle peppers will certainly do the trick. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a milder version for kids or sensitive palates, you can simply lessen or omit the chili powder.
If you’re aiming to make it vegetarian, consider swapping out the ground turkey for a plant-based protein like lentils or extra beans. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots to the mix. For a healthier twist, you can incorporate a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for an added flavor boost.
And if you happen to have leftovers, you can transform your chili into chili-stuffed bell peppers! Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds, stuff them with leftover chili, and bake until the peppers are tender. Each variation brings a new spin on this classic dish while maintaining the comforting essence that makes Chili a beloved favorite.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Turkey Chili?
Crockpot Turkey Chili is a savory dish made with ground turkey, beans, vegetables, and an array of spices, all cooked slowly in a crockpot. This cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a hearty and nutritious meal.
How long should I cook Crockpot Turkey Chili?
You can cook Crockpot Turkey Chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. This flexibility makes it ideal for busy days when you need a meal ready at a specific time.
Can I use other meats instead of ground turkey?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or a meat substitute for a plant-based meal.
Can I freeze Crockpot Turkey Chili?
Absolutely! After cooling, you can freeze it in airtight containers or bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
How do I thicken my Crockpot Turkey Chili?
If your chili is too soupy, you can thicken it by letting it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) during the last hour of cooking.
What toppings go well with Crockpot Turkey Chili?
You can enjoy your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices. Tortilla chips or cornbread also complement it perfectly!
Crockpot Turkey Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey High-quality ground turkey is preferred.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed Rinsing removes excess sodium.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Rinsing removes excess sodium.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Don't drain; this adds moisture.
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned If using canned, drain thoroughly.
- 1 onion, chopped Add chopped onion for flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds aroma.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust for desired spiciness.
- 1 tablespoon cumin Enhances flavor.
- to taste dashes salt and pepper Season to your liking.
- 1 cup chicken broth Adds depth to the chili.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients on the countertop.
- Crumble the ground turkey directly into the crockpot.
- Drain and rinse the canned black beans and kidney beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes without draining.
- Add frozen corn directly or drain the canned corn and then add.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic before adding them to the pot.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Once cooking time is up, check consistency; if preferred thicker, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
Serving
- Ladle the chili into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of beans, turkey, and vegetables.
- Top with shredded cheese, diced green onions, sour cream, or cilantro if desired.
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