Go Back
Bowl of kid-friendly crock pot turkey chili topped with sour cream and cilantro on a rustic wooden table

Kid-Friendly Crockpot Turkey Chili

This kid-friendly crock pot turkey chili is a quick and healthy dinner solution perfect for busy families. With only 15 minutes of prep time, this easy turkey chili slow cooker recipe delivers delicious, hearty flavors without the hassle of long cooking times.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.3 lbs 99% lean ground turkey
  • 1 teaspoon oil
  • 1 medium onion, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced fine
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels
  • 10 oz can Rotel Mild Tomatoes
  • 8 oz small can plain tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 bay leaf
  • *Optional Toppings:* diced avocado, reduced-fat sour cream, shredded cheese, baked tortilla chips

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, season with salt, and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
  2. Add oil to the skillet and sauté the minced onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Transfer the turkey and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Stir in the frozen corn, Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and additional salt.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and add a bay leaf. Mix everything together.
  5. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on HIGH for 4 hours, or set to LOW for 6 hours for a slower simmer.
  6. Once done, remove the bay leaf and stir. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Double the Batch: Freezes beautifully for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Customize the Spice: Add a pinch more chili powder or paprika if you're cooking for adults who like a little heat. Pre-Minced Garlic Hack: Save time by using jarred minced garlic—it works just as well. Freeze Leftovers in Portions: Use freezer-safe containers for individual servings. Toppings Make It Fun: Let kids pick their own toppings—it makes dinnertime interactive.