Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili Recipe – Easy & Delicious!

Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili is the no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner you need in your life. With just 10 minutes of prep and only one pot to clean, this recipe makes weeknight meals a breeze. Plus, it’s loaded with protein-rich beans, lean turkey, and bold spices, delivering hearty, comforting goodness every single time.

Let’s face it, traditional chili recipes can be an all-day cooking event, but not this one. The slow cooker or Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting while you focus on everything else in your busy day. Trust me, this is the easy 3-bean turkey chili recipe you’ll keep coming back to!

Why This Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili Is a Game-Changer

• Set-it-and-forget-it cooking: Toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you tackle your to-do list.
• Ready for leftovers: This recipe makes 10 servings, meaning dinner tonight and lunch the next day are covered. Bonus: It tastes even better on day two.
• Hands-off meal prep: Brown the turkey, mix the ingredients, and walk away. No babysitting required!
• Customizable: Easily swap beans, adjust the spice levels, or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a batch, freeze individual portions, and enjoy delicious chili whenever you want without any extra work.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili

Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

• Slow cooker: A 6-quart model works perfectly for this recipe. If you’re on a budget, models like the Crock-Pot brand are affordable and reliable.
• Medium skillet: You’ll use this to brown the turkey and onions before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Instant Pot (optional): If you’re short on time, this recipe works just as well in a pressure cooker with the sauté and high-pressure settings.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping your onion and garnishes like cilantro and red onion.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili

Every ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to save time and pack a punch of flavor. Here are a few standouts:

• 99% lean ground turkey: This low-fat turkey chili recipe keeps things light without sacrificing flavor. Brown it to lock in moisture before adding it to the pot.
• Canned beans: Chickpeas, black beans, and small red beans add variety in texture and taste. Drained and rinsed, these are a total time-saver.
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes: Canned versions deliver rich tomato flavor without any extra work. Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes to avoid watery chili.
• Spice mix: Chili powder and cumin are the stars of the show, delivering just the right kick. Adjust to taste if you like it spicier!

Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili Recipe Details

• Servings: 10 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1.3 lb (20 oz) 99% lean ground turkey breast
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 (16 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (4.5 oz) can chopped chilies
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained
• 1 (15.5 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (15.5 oz) can small red beans, drained
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion for topping
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro for topping
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, avocado, sour cream, etc.

How to Make Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of chili ready in no time:

1. Brown the turkey: In a medium skillet, cook the ground turkey and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
2. Combine ingredients: Transfer the turkey and onion to your slow cooker. Add the beans, chilies, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
3. Set it and cook: Choose your cooking setting: on high for 6–8 hours or on low for 10–12 hours. Walk away and let the slow cooker work its magic.
4. Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, and top with red onion, cilantro, and your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar or avocado. Serve warm!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili

• Use pre-chopped onions: Save time on prep by grabbing pre-chopped onion from the grocery store (fresh or frozen works).
• Make it spicier: Add fresh jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Batch cook: Double the recipe, and freeze individual portions in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners later.
• Let it rest: Chili always tastes better when the flavors have time to meld. If you can, make it the day before for peak flavor.
• Reheat the right way: Reheat portions on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

Easy Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili Variations

• Vegetarian option: Skip the turkey, and add extra beans like kidney or pinto instead.
• Extra veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen corn for added nutrition.
• Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give the chili a smoky depth of flavor.
• Protein switch-up: Swap turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for variety.

Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili FAQs

Can I make this chili in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the turkey and onion, then add the remaining ingredients. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 25 minutes. Let it natural release before serving.

How do I store leftover chili?

Store chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook the beans first, as this recipe relies on canned beans for their quick-cook convenience.

What toppings go best with this chili?

Classic options like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and chopped avocado pair wonderfully, but get creative with pickled jalapeños or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch!

How do I thicken my chili if it’s too watery?

If your chili turns out thinner than expected, let it simmer uncovered on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

This Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili is proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean time-consuming. What’s your go-to weeknight recipe? Let me know in the comments below!