Turkey Chorizo Chili Slow Cooker: A Hearty and Spicy Meal

Are you looking for a hearty and spicy meal that is easy to make? Look no further than turkey chorizo chili slow cooker! This dish is perfect for those who want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about making turkey chorizo chili in a slow cooker.

Chili is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by many for generations. The combination of beans, meat, and spices makes for a filling and satisfying meal. Turkey chorizo chili is a twist on the traditional recipe that uses ground turkey instead of beef or pork. This gives the dish a lighter and healthier feel while still packing a punch of flavor.

Making chili in a slow cooker is one of the easiest ways to prepare this dish. Simply add all of the ingredients to the pot and let it simmer for several hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and delicious sauce. Plus, using a slow cooker means that you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time to do other things.

Now, let's dive into the details of how to make turkey chorizo chili slow cooker style.

Ingredients

To make turkey chorizo chili in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 lb chorizo sausage, casing removed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the turkey to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, cook the chorizo sausage over medium heat until browned. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chorizo to the slow cooker.
3. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.

Tips for Making the Best Turkey Chorizo Chili Slow Cooker

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will give your chili the best flavor. Make sure to use fresh onions, garlic, and spices.
• Brown the meat first: Browning the turkey and chorizo before adding them to the slow cooker will give the dish a richer flavor.
• Drain and rinse the beans: This helps to remove excess salt and starch from the beans and makes them easier to digest.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth: This will help to keep the sodium content of the dish in check.
• Don't overcook the chili: Overcooking the chili can cause it to become mushy. Check the chili periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Health Benefits of Turkey Chorizo Chili Slow Cooker

Turkey chorizo chili slow cooker is not only delicious, but it also has several health benefits. Some of these benefits include:

• High in protein: The ground turkey and chorizo provide a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.
• Low in fat: Using turkey instead of beef or pork reduces the fat content of the dish, making it a healthier option.
• Rich in fiber: The beans in the chili are a great source of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals: The onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices used in the recipe provide a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations to consider:

• Swap the beans: If you don't like kidney or black beans, try using pinto beans or navy beans instead.
• Add more vegetables: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the chili for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper. If you like it hot, add more!
• Use different toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapenos.

Turkey chorizo chili slow cooker is a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for cold winter nights or busy weeknights. By following the simple instructions above, you can have a flavorful and satisfying dish in no time. Plus, with all of the health benefits of this dish, you can feel good about eating it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is chorizo and where can I find it?

A1. Chorizo is a type of sausage that originated in Spain and Portugal. It is made from ground pork, paprika, and other spices. You can find chorizo in the meat section of most grocery stores.

Q2. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

A2. Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the ground turkey if you prefer.

Q3. How long can I store leftover chili?

A3. Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q4. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

A4. Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop by following the same instructions but simmering the chili over low heat for 1-2 hours instead of using a slow cooker.

Q5. Can I omit the chicken broth?

A5. Yes, you can omit the chicken broth if you prefer. However, it may affect the overall flavor and consistency of the chili.

Q6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

A6. Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Q7. Can I add beer to the chili?

A7. Yes, you can add beer to the chili for extra flavor. Simply replace some of the chicken broth with your favorite beer.

Q8. Can I use canned tomatoes with green chilies?

A8. Yes, you can use canned tomatoes with green chilies instead of regular diced tomatoes for extra spice.

Q9. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

A9. Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for the ground turkey if you prefer.

Q10. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

A10. Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot by following the same instructions but cooking on high pressure for 20 minutes.