Save A hearty, flavorful chili made with lean ground turkey, beans, and vegetables, slow-cooked for maximum depth and comfort Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or game day gathering
This chili has become a staple in my household during colder months It’s easy to prepare and always brings everyone together around the table
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey: 1 1/2 lbs (680 g)
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Green bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional)
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Diced tomatoes: 2 (14.5 oz / 410 g) cans, with juices
- Tomato sauce: 1 (8 oz / 227 g) can
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp (optional for heat)
- Salt: 1 1/2 tsp or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks Drain excess fat if needed
- Step 2:
- Transfer the cooked turkey to the slow cooker
- Step 3:
- Add onion, bell peppers, garlic, and jalapeño to the slow cooker
- Step 4:
- Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper
- Step 5:
- Pour in chicken broth and mix well until all ingredients are combined
- Step 6:
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or shredded cheese (if not dairy-free)
Save This recipe has created many warm family moments from casual dinners to game days where everyone enjoys a bowl together
Notes
For a spicier chili, add more cayenne or keep the jalapeño seeds Substitute ground chicken for turkey if desired Serve with cornbread or over rice for a heartier meal
Required Tools
Large skillet Slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity) Cutting board and knife Wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens Beans are naturally gluten-free, but check all canned goods and broth labels for possible gluten or allergen cross-contamination
Save This chili gets better the next day and freezes well for convenient future meals
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or include jalapeño seeds for added heat.
- → What can I substitute for ground turkey?
Ground chicken works well as a substitute, maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → How long should I cook this in a slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours to ensure tender vegetables and melded flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all primary ingredients are gluten-free; just be sure to verify canned goods and broth labels.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve garnished with chopped cilantro, avocado, or shredded cheese, alongside cornbread or rice.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh diced tomatoes can be used but may alter cooking time and flavor concentration slightly.