Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili Recipe

This Slow Cooker Turkey and Bean Chili will quickly become a favorite. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or game-day gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe

This turkey chili is effortless and forgiving. Brown the meat and onions in the morning, add everything to the slow cooker, then let it simmer all day so you come home to a warm, satisfying meal. Using lean ground turkey keeps the dish lighter while still delivering protein and fiber.

It’s a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili and pairs beautifully with simple sides like cornbread or tortilla chips.

Ingredients

Notes on key ingredients for this turkey and bean chili:

• Olive oil: For sautéing the turkey and onions.
• Ground turkey: Use 93% lean for the best texture; beef can be substituted if preferred.
• Onion and peppers: One large yellow onion and a green bell pepper, diced. Add jalapeños for heat; remove seeds for milder flavor.
• Celery: Two stalks, sliced for extra crunch and depth.
• Beans: Canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed. Low- or no-salt varieties work well. Pinto or black beans are fine substitutes.
• Diced tomatoes: A can of petite diced tomatoes adds texture.
• Tomato juice: Forms the liquid base and keeps the chili saucy.
• Seasonings: Chili powder, garlic powder, celery salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper and salt to taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the turkey and onion. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and diced onion, season lightly with salt, and cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Combine in the slow cooker. Transfer the cooked turkey and onions to the slow cooker. Add bell pepper, jalapeños, celery, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato juice and seasonings. Stir gently to combine.
3. Slow-cook. Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 7–8 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
4. Serve. Ladle into bowls and offer toppings so everyone can customize their chili.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

• For best flavor and texture, cook on low for 7–8 hours, though high for 3–4 hours works in a pinch.
• Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, a simple salad, or crusty bread.
• Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Leftovers are great transformed — try them over fries, on nachos, or stuffed into baked potatoes.

The Best Chili Toppings

Offer a variety of toppings so each person can build a bowl they love. Popular choices include:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Diced red onion
• Sliced green onion
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeño
• Chopped avocado
• Lime wedges for squeezing

More Cozy Recipes

If you enjoy this chili, try other hearty soups and chilis for chilly nights or comfort meals.

• Butternut Squash Turkey Chili
• Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
• Italian Wedding Soup with Turkey Meatballs
• Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
• Vegetable Soup with Orzo and White Beans

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Slow Cooker Turkey and Bean Chili

5 from 1 review

• Author: Nicole | Fresh Apron
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American