Brown the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2 pounds ground turkey, 2 tbsp olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic
Transfer to crockpot: Move the turkey mixture to your crockpot. This browning step adds so much depth of flavor to your chili!
Add vegetables and beans: Toss in the diced bell peppers, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir everything together so it's evenly distributed.
1 red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, 2 cans 15 oz each kidney beans, drained and rinsed, 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
Pour in liquids: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
2 cans 14.5 oz each diced tomatoes, 1 can 6 oz tomato paste, 2 cups chicken broth
Season generously: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated throughout the chili.
3 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp cayenne pepper
Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Final adjustments: About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasonings. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips