Ground Turkey Chili
Ground turkey is great because it’s incredibly lean. It’s also fairly inexpensive and perfectly festive for Winter! However, turkey’s got a bad rep for, well, being pretty bland. And I won’t stand here and tell you there’s not some truth to that. BUT, it’s not a lost cause. There’s many-a-way to spruce up turkey. And this chili, in my opinion, is the ultimate way. Here’s how we’re going to bring out the best in the turkey:
Brown – The first thing you can do to add flavour is brown the turkey before slow cooking. And that doesn’t mean just fry, but really make sure you see the turkey caramelize in the pan and start to brown. Seasoning – This chili is absolutely loaded with flavour, which the turkey takes on beautifully. Don’t skimp out on the essentials either, turkey sucks up salt & pepper into oblivion, so ensure you season both when frying AND when slow cooking. Slow – Cooking low ‘n’ slow is best, to really make sure the flavour makes its way into the meat.
Process shots: add ground turkey to pan with oil (photo 1), brown, season, then add to slow cooker (photo 2), add red pepper, onion & garlic to pan (photo 3), fry then add to slow cooker (photo 4).
How to Slow Cook Turkey Chili
Alongside browning the turkey, I like to brown the onion, garlic and red pepper for the same reason. The caramelization with the pan adds an extra layer of flavour. You could add those 3 straight in the slow cooker, but you’ll lose out on a touch of flavour. In my opinion it’s worth the extra few mins, especially because you’ve already got the pan out 🤪
How long to slow cook turkey chili?
I’ve cooked this recipe on both high and low settings before, and found the sweet spot hits 3.5-4 hours on high, or 6-7hours on low. The difference between the two is minimal.
Can I make this on the stove?
You could, but I’d still recommend simmering with the lid on for at least 1 hour 30mins. It’s really important to cook this recipe low ‘n’ slow to inject flavour into the turkey and tenderize it. Process shots: add chili ingredients into slow cooker (photo 1), stir to combine (photo 2), pop the lid on and slow cook (photo 3).
Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?
Ground beef is obviously perfect for a chili. This version does have a slightly different flavour profile, so check out my Chilli Con Carne for a beef version!
Can you put raw ground turkey in a slow cooker?
Technically speaking it would cook through, but I highly recommend browning first. This will not only ensure the turkey doesn’t clump together, but also ensures you don’t miss out on the added flavour from frying.
How do I thicken Turkey Chili?
I’ve created this recipe so it already comes fairly thick. I’m not a fan of watery chilis. But, if you want to thicken it further just flick the settings to ‘warm’ and leave the lid off for 20mins or so.
Can you freeze Turkey Chili?
Perfect for leftovers! Just allow to completely cool then portion and tightly seal in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge and reheat until piping hot!
Serving Turkey Chili
Serve with tortilla chips then can add your fave toppings! Here’s what I usually go for:
Cheddar Sour Cream Coriander/Cilantro
For another delicious ground turkey recipe check out my Ground Turkey Gnocchi! For more chili recipes check out my Chili Mac, Chilli Con Carne and Veggie Chilli! Alrighty, let’s tuck into the full recipe for this slow cooker turkey chili shall we?!
How to make Slow Cooker Turkey Chili (Full Recipe & Video)
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