Name: Best Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey (93/7); 1 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon liquid smoke; 14-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained; 15-ounce can tomato sauce

Jump to Recipe

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is the answer for those seeking warmth and comfort in a hearty meal. This recipe combines tender turkey, vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices, creating a nourishing and fuss-free chili perfect for busy days or chilly evenings.

There isn’t much better or more comforting than a warm bowl of chili, especially when the temperatures start to drop each autumn. I love whipping up a big batch of chili and using it to meal prep for the week because it reheats and freezes so well. This easy turkey chili recipe is one of my favorite variations of chili because it’s made in the crock pot with just 15 minutes of prep time.

Why I love this recipe

When it comes to a good chili, it’s all about the seasonings (similar to our Texas Cowboy Stew). This is the best turkey chili recipe that I have tested to date. The combination of veggies with ground turkey and beans and the rich, savory sauce is just perfection.

Ingredients

Protein – ground turkey and kidney beans
Veggies – bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and tomato sauce
Seasonings – garlic, chili powder, cumin, ground chipotle, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, salt and pepper

Step by step

wooden spoon breaking up ground turkey while cooking in a skillet

ground turkey, onions, and chopped green pepper in skillet

Brown the ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
Transfer the meat and veggie mixture to the crock pot along with the remaining ingredients. Stir to mix thoroughly.
Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low 8-10 hours. Serve with your favorite toppings

Variations

use ground beef or ground chicken or even ground pork instead of the turkey
spice it up with red pepper flakes
change up the beans: pinto beans, black beans, navy beans, or white beans are all great options
only have chicken breasts? Try this white chicken chili instead!

Chili toppings

There are so many tasty and fun ways you can top your chili! You can set up a chili bar and let everyone make their own personalized bowl!

cheddar cheese
sour cream
chopped green onion
cilantro
tortilla chips, oyster crackers, or fritos
chopped jalapeño
corn
pico de gallo
sliced avocado
diced onion

white bowl with slow cooker turkey chili topped with sour cream and cheese

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding extra liquid (water or chicken broth) if needed.

Freeze in a freezer-safe container (affiliate link) or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!