Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili simmering away in the slow cooker, filling the kitchen with its rich, savory aroma. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Beans is a lighter twist on the classic beef chili, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. Made with lean ground turkey, hearty beans, tomatoes, and a medley of spices, this chili is both wholesome and satisfying.

The slow cooker does all the work here, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. It’s the kind of recipe you can set in the morning and return to at dinner time with a comforting, home-cooked meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or cozy weekends, this dish is hearty enough to feed a crowd and healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition. The lean turkey keeps it lighter than traditional beef chili, while the beans provide heartiness and plant-based protein. The slow cooker makes it so simple no babysitting the pot, just toss in the ingredients, and let time work its magic.

It’s also incredibly versatile: you can make it mild or spicy, add extra veggies, or top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips. Every spoonful is warming, filling, and packed with flavor, making it a dish I love to come back to again and again.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it offers big flavor with minimal effort. If you love chili but want a healthier version, this is the one. The ground turkey makes it lighter, yet the beans, spices, and tomatoes ensure it’s still hearty and satisfying.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or serving a group of friends, everyone will find something to love. It freezes well, reheats beautifully, and is budget-friendly. If you’re looking for a go-to chili recipe that delivers every time, this one is a must.

Recipe Information

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American (Southern-inspired)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (on low) or 3–4 hours (on high)
• Total Time: 6–8 hours, 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~320 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (lean, 93/7 preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz) cans beans (kidney, black, or pinto – or a mix), drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Optional Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla chips or cornbread

Directions & Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Veggies

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 5–6 minutes).
3. Stir in onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer turkey mixture to the slow cooker.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, and broth.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Slow Cook

• On Low: 6–8 hours
• On High: 3–4 hours

Stir occasionally if possible. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.

Step 4: Taste & Adjust

Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings—add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.

How to Serve

• Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes: cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
• Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• For a healthier option, serve over brown rice or quinoa.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, corn, or carrots for more nutrients.
• Bean-Free Option: Skip beans and add extra turkey or veggies.
• Thicker Chili: Stir in an extra spoonful of tomato paste or let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Meal Prep Tip: Freeze in single-serve portions for easy grab-and-reheat lunches.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (for browning turkey and veggies)
• 6-quart slow cooker
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle for serving

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this with ground beef or chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground beef or chicken works well—adjust fat content to your preference.

Q2: Do I need to cook the turkey before adding to the slow cooker?
Yes, browning it first develops better flavor and prevents a mushy texture.

Q3: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the turkey and add more beans and vegetables, using vegetable broth.

Q4: How can I thicken my chili?
Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Q5: What beans work best?
Kidney, black, or pinto beans are classic choices—but you can mix and match.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Beans is the perfect balance of hearty, healthy, and comforting. With lean turkey, fiber-packed beans, and a rich tomato base, it delivers big flavor while keeping things wholesome. The slow cooker makes it effortless, freeing up your time while it develops those deep, cozy flavors.

Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding your family, or hosting friends, this chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s nourishing, customizable, and downright delicious a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation all year long.