Name: Healthy Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487700H22M8S
Total time: PT-487700H22M8S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 small yellow onions, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 2 pounds ground turkey or chicken; 2 red peppers, seeded and chopped; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (use 1 for less heat); 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 2–3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 can (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1 tablespoon apple butter; 2 bay leaves; 1 can (14 ounce) white beans, drained; Cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions, and cilantro for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this chili because it’s both hearty and wholesome. Ground turkey adds lean protein, white beans provide fiber and creaminess, and the combination of spices gives the chili a rich, smoky depth. Apple butter adds a subtle sweetness that balances the heat from the chipotle peppers. Served with cheddar, avocado, green onions, and cilantro, this chili is satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements are in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 small yellow onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 pounds ground turkey or chicken
2 red peppers, seeded and chopped
2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (use 1 for less heat)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2–3 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 can (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 tablespoon apple butter
2 bay leaves
1 can (14 ounce) white beans, drained
Cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions, and cilantro for serving

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 1–2 minutes.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Transfer mixture to the slow cooker.
Add red peppers, chipotle peppers, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, apple butter, and add bay leaves. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in drained white beans and cook until heated through. Remove bay leaves.
Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheddar, sliced avocado, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
Total time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add corn or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use black beans instead of white beans for a different texture.
Spice it up by adding extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne.
Make it vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
Swap ground turkey for chicken or lean beef if desired.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. This chili freezes well for up to 3 months thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Simmer in a large pot over low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld.

How can I reduce the heat?

Use only 1 chipotle pepper or remove seeds to lower spiciness.

Can I use canned turkey or chicken instead of ground?

Ground meat works best for texture, but shredded cooked chicken or turkey can be added at the end.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just double-check canned goods for additives.

What toppings work best?

Cheddar, avocado, green onions, cilantro, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime all complement the flavors perfectly.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, chili often tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

How do I thicken my chili?

Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or mash some beans into the chili for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

Healthy Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. With smoky chipotle, warming spices, and tender turkey, it’s perfect for cozy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Top with your favorite fresh ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of wholesome, slow-cooked goodness.