Name: Crock Pot Turkey Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1 lb Ground Turkey; 1 can Canned Tomatoes; 1 can Corn; 1 can Canned Green Chilies; 1 15 oz Great Northern Beans; 1 15 oz Black Beans; 3/4 cup Water; 1 tbsp Chili Powder; 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tbsp Ground Cumin; 1 pinch Ground Black Pepper; 1 pinch Ground Allspice; 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional); to taste Garlic Salt

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There’s something about a warm bowl of Crock Pot Turkey Chili that brings the family together. I still remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my home as it slowly cooked, and I couldn’t wait to see how it turned out. It was one of those chilly winter evenings when all I wanted was something hearty and comforting. I gathered the ingredients, knowing that each one played a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors. As I stirred the pot, laughter and stories filled the kitchen, and I realized that this recipe was more than just a meal; it was a way to connect and make memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Crock Pot

Why This Crock Pot Turkey Chili Shines

Simple Yet Flavorful

One of the reasons I adore this Crock Pot Turkey Chili is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The blend of spices, beans, and turkey comes together beautifully, making it a go-to recipe for a cozy night in.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is a savior for those busy weeks. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. Having homemade chili ready for dinner saves time and ensures you have something healthy on hand, which is a win-win!

Comfort Food at Its Best

On cold winter nights, nothing beats a warm bowl of chili. The ground turkey adds a lean protein punch, while the beans provide fiber, making this dish satisfying and delicious. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat!

Customizable to Your Taste

One of my favorite aspects of this Crock Pot Turkey Chili is how easily it can be customized. Want it spicier? Add extra chili flakes. Prefer a milder flavor? Cut back on the spices. You can make it your own each time you whip it up, which keeps things exciting.

Great for Gatherings

This chili is not only a delicious meal for the family but also perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s a game day or a cozy dinner party, serving Crock Pot Turkey Chili will impress your guests. Set out toppings like cheese, avocado, or sour cream, and let everyone build their perfect bowl.

A Recipe to Share

Finally, this dish is all about sharing love and warmth. I often make it when friends come over, and it never fails to spark conversation and laughter around the table. It’s more than just food; it’s an experience that brings people together.

Key Ingredients for Crock Pot Turkey Chili

The ingredients in this Crock Pot Turkey Chili come together to create a dish that’s not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrition. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor, from the savory ground turkey to the vibrant canned tomatoes and beans. The spices add depth, while the vegetables provide essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal.

1 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the turkey, this oil helps to infuse flavor right from the start.
1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that adds heartiness to the chili without excess fat.
1 can canned tomatoes: This forms the base of the chili, providing moisture and a rich, tomatoey flavor.
1 can corn: Sweet and crunchy, it adds texture and a pop of color to the dish.
1 can canned green chilies: These add a mild heat and depth of flavor, perfect for chili.
1 (15 oz) can great northern beans: High in fiber, these beans contribute creaminess and heartiness.
1 (15 oz) can black beans: Another fiber-rich ingredient, black beans enhance the taste and texture.
3/4 cup water: This helps to create the right consistency for the chili.
1 tbsp chili powder: The star spice that brings warmth and a deep flavor to the dish.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky flavor without overpowering the dish.
1/2 tbsp ground cumin: This spice offers an earthy flavor that complements the chili beautifully.
1 pinch ground black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 pinch ground allspice: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
1 tsp red pepper flakes: Optional for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
garlic salt (with parsley flakes): Used as a seasoning to enhance the overall taste of the chili.

Step by Step Instructions for Crock Pot Turkey Chili

Cooking the Crock Pot Turkey Chili is a breeze, especially with the slow cooker doing most of the work. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add vegetable oil and let it warm up for a minute. This will help to sauté the ground turkey effectively.
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s evenly browned. Look for a nice golden color, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds flavor.
After the turkey is browned, drain any excess oil from the skillet. You want to keep your chili lean, so let the oil drain into a bowl.
Now it’s time to prepare your slow cooker. Spray the inside with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will ensure your chili comes out easily when it’s done.
Transfer the browned turkey into the crock pot. You can just dump it in, but be sure to scrape any leftover bits from the skillet, as they carry lots of flavors.
Add the canned tomatoes, canned corn, and canned green chilies to the crock pot. Each of these ingredients adds moisture and flavor that contribute to the overall dish.
Next, toss in the great northern beans and black beans. Be sure to drain both cans before adding them, as you want the chili to maintain a good consistency.
Now pour in 3/4 cup of water. This will help the chili cook down and blend all the flavors beautifully.
It’s time to season your chili! Add chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, ground black pepper, and ground allspice. Be sure to stir everything well to mix the spices evenly throughout the chili.
If you like it spicy, this is the moment to add red pepper flakes. Just a teaspoon will do if you want a mild heat. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more!
Lastly, sprinkle in some garlic salt to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavors to match your preference.
Cover the crock pot and cook the chili. You have two options: set it on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours. Either way, your house will smell amazing while it cooks!
Once it’s done, give the chili a good stir before serving. This helps to redistribute the flavors that have melded together beautifully.

Things Worth Knowing

Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chili to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to settle.
Adjust thickness: If your chili is too thick, add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Flavor development: Chili often tastes better the next day. Consider making it ahead of time and letting it sit in the fridge.
Spice level: Remember that the spice can intensify as it sits. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your heat preference as you taste.

Variations to Try

While the Crock Pot Turkey Chili is fantastic as is, there are so many variations to explore. Here are some tips to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

Add more veggies: Want a more nutritious chili? Add in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for an extra veggie boost.
Beans: Feel free to mix and match beans! Try adding kidney beans or pinto beans for a different flavor.
Top it off: Experiment with toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro to enhance each bowl.
Make it a stew: For a heartier option, use less water and serve it over rice or quinoa.
Slow cooker alternatives: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this chili on the stovetop. Just simmer it for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Spicy kick: If you’re a heat lover, try adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it that extra zing.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual portions for quick meals. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with cornbread or over a baked potato for a delicious twist.

Serving This Crock Pot Turkey Chili

When it comes to serving Crock Pot Turkey Chili, there are endless possibilities that can elevate your meal experience. Here are some ideas:

Perfect for game day: Set up a chili bar with various toppings for friends to create their unique bowls.
Cozy family dinners: A big bowl of chili is perfect for a casual family dinner, paired with crusty bread or rice.
Meal prep: This dish makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day. Pack it in containers with toppings for a satisfying meal.
Seasonal events: Great for winter gatherings, potlucks, or as a comforting dish during the holiday season.
Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about five days in the fridge.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this Crock Pot Turkey Chili features ground turkey, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken or even lean ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose. The key is to ensure that whatever meat you use is browned before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.

The spice level of your Crock Pot Turkey Chili is entirely customizable. The recipe calls for red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your liking. If you enjoy spicy food, feel free to add more, or consider incorporating jalapeños for an extra kick. On the other hand, if you prefer milder flavors, you can simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely. Taste as you go, and you’ll create a chili that fits your palate perfectly!

Yes, one of the best things about Crock Pot Turkey Chili is how well it holds up over time. You can make it a day or two ahead of your event or meal and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. In fact, many people find that chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready for you when you need it.

When serving Crock Pot Turkey Chili, there are numerous delicious options to complement it. Consider pairing it with some crusty bread, cornbread, or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. You can also set up a toppings bar with items like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. This allows everyone to customize their bowl, making it not just a meal but an enjoyable culinary experience!

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Turkey Chili is a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for those chilly evenings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. I encourage you to try making it tonight; you’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also create lasting memories around the dinner table.