Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili –🍲🦃 Warm up your kitchen with a hearty and healthy Crockpot Turkey White Bean Chili!
This recipe offers a lighter take on traditional chili, combining lean ground turkey with creamy white beans, simmered in a flavorful broth brimming with spices.
It’s a perfect blend of nourishing ingredients and robust flavors, making it an ideal meal for chilly evenings or when you crave something comforting yet wholesome.
Our Turkey White Bean Chili is delicious and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Each spoonful is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring a satisfying and balanced meal that will keep you full and energized.
Whether feeding a crowd, looking for a new family favorite, or adding a healthier chili recipe, this Turkey White Bean Chili will surely hit the spot. Prepare for a delightful culinary experience that is nourishing and flavorful. Stay tuned for the full recipe with step-by-step instructions to create this delicious and comforting dish!
The Best Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili Recipe
🌶️🦃 Welcome to the ultimate culinary delight – The Best Turkey White Bean Chili Recipe! Prepare to be amazed by this comforting and flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. Combining lean ground turkey with creamy white beans, this chili is a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili and a treasure trove of taste and nutrition.
Perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or when you need a warming and satisfying meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and wholesome. Packed with protein-rich turkey, fiber-filled beans, and a blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds, each bite is a delightful experience.
This Turkey White Bean Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of easy flavors to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, ensuring delicious results every time. So, prepare to simmer, savor, and enjoy – the best Turkey White Bean Chili awaits you!
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
You’re going to love this Turkey White Bean Chili recipe for several compelling reasons:
- Healthy and Nutritious: This chili is a healthier alternative to traditional beef versions. It’s packed with lean protein from the turkey and fiber from the white beans, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Rich and Flavorful: Despite being a healthier option, there’s no compromise on flavor. Combining spices, herbs, and the natural flavors of turkey and beans creates a rich, satisfying taste experience.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated cooking techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of chili. It’s the perfect dish for cooler weather, cozy evenings, or a comforting meal.
- Versatile: This chili can be easily customized. Adjust the spices to suit your taste, add more vegetables, or make it spicier.
- Great for Meal Prep: This chili holds up well in the fridge and tastes better the next day as the flavors meld, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
- Diet-Friendly: It’s an excellent recipe for those on specific diets like low-fat or high-protein. It can also be suitable for gluten- and dairy-free diets with a few adjustments.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit, whether you’re cooking for your family or a larger gathering. It’s filling, flavorful, and has a broad appeal.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze some for later. It freezes and reheats beautifully, ensuring a delicious meal is ready whenever needed.
Ingredients Needed For Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili
Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient for Turkey White Bean Chili, highlighting their role in the recipe:
Each ingredient in Turkey White Bean Chili is vital in creating a rich, flavorful, and hearty dish perfect for a comforting meal.
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the garlic and onion, providing a flavorful base and ensuring that the ingredients don’t stick to the pan.
- Minced Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that is foundational in many savory dishes, including this chili.
- Yellow Onion: Onion brings a slightly sweet and savory depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the chili.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, rich flavor and a bit of texture to the chili, complementing the turkey and beans.
- White Beans: White beans are a key ingredient, providing heartiness, texture and a great source of protein and fiber.
- Corn Kernels: Corn adds a sweet crunch and a pop of color, contrasting texture and flavor.
- Leftover Turkey: Using leftover turkey makes this dish an excellent option for repurposing holiday leftovers, adding turkey breast, a lean protein, and a meaty texture.
- Mexican Green Sauce: This sauce provides a unique, tangy flavor and a little heat, enhancing the Mexican-inspired profile of the chili.
- Chicken Broth or Turkey Broth: The broth forms the liquid base of the chili, adding depth and bringing all the flavors together.
- Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper introduces a spicy kick, which can be adjusted according to your heat preference.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a sweet, smoky flavor and a vibrant color to the chili.
- Oregano: Oregano contributes an earthy, slightly bitter flavor characteristic of many Mexican and Mediterranean dishes.
- Thyme: Thyme offers a subtle, slightly minty flavor, complementing the other herbs and spices in the chili.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These seasoning staples enhance and balance all the flavors in the chili.
- Favorite Toppings: Sour Cream, salsa verde, or lime juice
How To Make Crockpot Turkey White Bean Chilli
Making Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is a convenient and flavorful way to create a comforting meal with minimal effort. Here’s a simple recipe:
Brown the Turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it’s no longer pink. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to the slow cooker.
Add Vegetables: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper.
Include Beans and Tomatoes: Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the mixture.
Stir in Tomato Paste and Spices: Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or turkey broth and stir. The liquid should cover the ingredients. If it seems too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
Slow Cook the Chili: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is done when the vegetables are tender, and the flavors are well combined.
Final Seasoning and Serve: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
This Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is a hearty, flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weekdays, game days, or a cozy night. It’s also great for meal prep as it stores and reheats well. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Recipe Variations White Chili Recipe
Experimenting with Turkey White Bean Chili recipe variations can bring new flavors and dimensions to this comforting dish. Here are some creative ideas to try:
- Spicy Chipotle Turkey Chili: Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor. This gives the chili a nice kick and a unique depth.
- Sweet Potato Turkey Chili: Include diced sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory contrast. They add a lovely texture and are a great way to incorporate more vegetables.
- Creamy Turkey Chili: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream towards the end of cooking for a creamier texture and a slight tang.
- Green Turkey Chili: Use tomatillos instead of regular tomatoes and add green chilies for a ‘verde’ version of the chili. This variation offers a tangier and slightly milder flavor.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Turkey Chili: Incorporate ingredients like olives, capers, and a dash of cinnamon for a Mediterranean twist. Serve it with feta cheese on top for added richness.
- Pumpkin Turkey Chili: Adding canned pumpkin puree gives the chili an autumnal flavor and a creamy consistency, making it perfect for fall.
- Kale and Turkey Chili: Stir in chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Corn and Black Bean Turkey Chili: Include corn kernels and black beans for a Southwestern flair and extra fiber.
- Asian-Inspired Turkey Chili: For an unconventional twist, add coconut milk, curry paste, and a touch of fish sauce for an Asian-inspired version.
- Hearty Turkey and Quinoa Chili: Add cooked quinoa near the end of cooking for extra protein and heartiness, making it a more filling meal.
Each variation adds a unique spin to the classic Turkey White Bean Chili, allowing you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences while keeping the dish exciting and flavorful.
Pro Tips
Creating an exceptional Turkey White Bean Chili involves more than just following a recipe; it’s about technique and personal touches. Here are some pro tips to enhance your chili:
- Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality ground turkey. Opt for organic or free-range turkey for the best flavor if you can. Similarly, choose good-quality beans and fresh produce.
- Browning Turkey: Don’t cook it until it’s no longer pink; brown it well. This adds depth to its flavor and enriches the overall taste of the chili. Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is an excellent choice for this white turkey chili recipe!
- Layering Flavors: Sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatics until fragrant and golden. This foundational flavor layer sets the tone for the entire dish.
- Spices: Toast your spices (like cumin, chili powder, etc.) for a minute in the pot before adding the liquids. This step helps to unlock their full flavor potential.
- Deglazing: After browning the turkey and sautéing the aromatics, use a bit of broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This technique ensures all the savory flavors are incorporated into the chili.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the chili to simmer gently. Rushing this process can result in less-developed flavors.
- Thickness: If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken. If it’s too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings toward the end of cooking. Sometimes, spices need a little boost after they’ve melded with the other ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs: Finish the chili with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness and color.
- Resting Time: Let the chili rest for a bit after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
- Serving: Offer a variety of toppings like grated cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado. This allows everyone to customize their bowl.
- Leftovers: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time.
These tips will help you make a Turkey White Bean Chili that’s hearty and delicious and reflects your culinary skills and personal taste preferences.
Faq’s Turkey White Bean Chili Recipe
Can I use canned white beans instead of dry? Absolutely. Canned white beans, cannellini beans, or navy beans are convenient options. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the chili.
What type of turkey should I use? Ground turkey is most commonly used for this recipe. Depending on your fat content and flavor preference, you can choose between lean or dark ground turkey meat. You can also use ground chicken, chicken breasts, or ground beef.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too watery? Let the chili simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans to create a thicker texture.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What can I use if I don’t have Mexican green sauce? You can substitute it with salsa verde or a combination of diced green chilies and tomatillos.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, Turkey White Bean Chili freezes very well. Cool it completely and store it in freezer-safe containers.
How long does this chili last in the refrigerator? Stored in an airtight container, it can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add vegetables to this chili? Of course! Bell peppers, corn, carrots, and zucchini are great additions to add more nutrients and flavors.
How can I make this Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili spicier? Increase the cayenne pepper, add diced jalapeños, or include a spicy chili powder blend to enhance the heat.
What are some good toppings for Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili? Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, ground cumin, Monterey Jack cheese, hot sauce,
More Recipes
Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large onion, yellow onion, red onion, or white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 28 ounces tomatoes, diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons chili powder, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional, for heat
- 1 teaspoon Salt , to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Brown the Turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it’s no longer pink. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper.
- Include Beans and Tomatoes: Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the mixture.
- Stir in Tomato Paste and Spices: Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or turkey broth and stir. The liquid should just cover the ingredients. If it seems too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
- Slow Cook the Chili: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is done when the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Equipment
- Crockpot, any slow cooker will work
Nutrition
Share this recipe
We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!