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Hearty Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Recipe with Hidden Vegetables Easy and Healthy

slow cooker turkey chili - featured image

A comforting and wholesome slow cooker turkey chili packed with hidden vegetables, perfect for cozy nights and busy days. This easy recipe blends bold flavors with nutritious ingredients for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, grated
  • 1 medium zucchini, grated
  • 1 medium bell pepper (red or orange), diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey in small batches, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Transfer browned turkey to the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring often. Add to the slow cooker.
  3. Add grated carrots and zucchini to the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, and drained black beans. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to distribute spices evenly.
  6. Add 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth to keep the chili moist and flavorful.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
  8. Before serving, taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. If too thick, stir in a splash of broth or water.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro as desired.

Notes

Brown the turkey first to enhance flavor. Grate vegetables finely and squeeze out excess moisture if zucchini is watery. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking. If chili is too watery after cooking, remove lid and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey chili, healthy chili, hidden vegetables, easy chili recipe, comfort food, lean protein, slow cooker recipes