RecipeCastle

Crockpot Chili

Crockpot Chili

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbsground turkey: This is the star of the dish. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef (providing a similar texture while being lower in fat and calories.)
  • 1large sweet onion (chopped: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the chili, balancing the spices.)
  • 2 clovesgarlic (minced: Garlic enhances the flavor profile, adding a fragrant, savory note.)
  • 3 cupslow-sodium chicken broth: This serves as the base liquid (adding rich flavor without excessive sodium.)
  • 6 oztomato paste: Tomato paste thickens the chili (intensifying its overall flavor.)
  • 20 ozdiced tomatoes with green chilies: These canned tomatoes bring acidity and a mild heat to the dish (enriching the texture.)
  • 14.5 ozfire-roasted diced tomatoes: Fire-roasting adds a smoky flavor (perfect for chili.)
  • 15.5 ozdark red kidney beans (rinsed: Beans provide a hearty component, adding fiber and protein.)
  • 15.5 ozpinto beans (rinsed: Similar to kidney beans, pinto beans add creaminess and substance.)
  • 3 tbspchili powder: A blend of spices that forms the backbone of chili's flavor (providing warmth and depth.)
  • 2 tspground cumin: Cumin contributes earthy tones that enhance the dish.
  • 1 tspsmoked paprika: Paprika adds a smoky sweetness (elevating the dish's complexity.)
  • 1 tbspbrown sugar: A hint of sweetness balances the tomato acidity and spices.
  • —Red pepper flakes & cayenne to taste: These spices allow for customization in heat levels (ideal for various palates.)
  • —Salt & pepper to taste: Basic seasoning is crucial for enhancing all the other flavors.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Brown the Turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1.5 lbs ground turkey. Cook until it's browned, about 5 minutes. Add 1 large sweet onion, chopped halfway through the process, stirring until both the turkey and onion are soft. Lastly, stir in 2 cloves minced garlic for another minute until fragrant. Drain any excess grease and transfer the mixture to your crockpot.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Broth Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 6 oz tomato paste. After combining, pour this mixture over the turkey and onion mix in the crockpot.

  3. 3

    Add Tomatoes and Beans: Next, add 20 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies, 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 15.5 oz dark red kidney beans, rinsed, and 15.5 oz pinto beans, rinsed into the crockpot. Stir to combine evenly.

  4. 4

    Season the Chili: Add 3 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tbsp brown sugar to the mix. Season with red pepper flakes & cayenne to taste, as well as salt & pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

  5. 5

    Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is ready when it's thick and the flavors are rich and developed. Stir occasionally if possible.