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Cozy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Roasted Corn

slow cooker turkey chili - featured image

A hearty and flavorful slow cooker turkey chili featuring charred roasted corn, lean ground turkey, and black beans. This easy weeknight dinner is kid-approved, gluten-free adaptable, and packed with warm spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 34 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% or 99% lean)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 12 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss corn kernels with 1 teaspoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until charred and tender.
  2. While corn roasts, heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break up with a wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
  5. Transfer the turkey and spice mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add roasted corn, diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, and broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  7. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If too thin, cook uncovered on high for 30 minutes. If too thick, add a splash of broth.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Roasting the corn is crucial for developing a smoky, caramelized flavor. Browning the turkey before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth via the Maillard reaction. The chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. For a thicker consistency, mash some beans against the side of the pot before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey chili, roasted corn chili, healthy weeknight dinner, gluten-free chili, easy chili recipe, family friendly meals