Slow Cooker Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa
I make this recipe in my Instant Pot because it has a saute function as well as a slow cooker function, so there's no need to dirty another pot or pan since it's all done in one. If you make this in a traditional slow cooker or Crockpot, use a large skillet for steps 1 and 2.
I make this recipe in my Instant Pot because it has a saute function as well as a slow cooker function, so there's no need to dirty another pot or pan since it's all done in one. If you make this in a traditional slow cooker or Crockpot, use a large skillet for steps 1 and 2.
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1 28- ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced (about 1 to 1 1/4 cup))
- 1 red bell pepper (seeded and diced (about 1 to 1 1/
- 1 cup diced sweet potato
- 1 tablespoon diced jalapeã±o pepper (plus more for garnish)
- 1 15- ounce can light kidney beans (drained and r
- 1 15- ounce can dark kidney beans (drained and ri
- chopped cilantro (lime wedges green onion, sour cream, cheese, or diced avocado for garnish)
- Carbohydrate 76.3263355093753 g
- Cholesterol 358.3379723 mg
- Fat 59.4893404703968 g
- Fiber 9.75174195165261 g
- Protein 96.1384942171114 g
- Saturated Fat 12.1933273959407 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1309g)
- Sodium 503.853393560523 mg
- Sugar 66.5745935577227 g
- Trans Fat 4.99877429449229 g
- Calories 1239 calories
Step-by-step
- Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté function or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the canola oil and heat until it shimmers, then add the ground turkey.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt and cook for about 5 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned, breaking up the turkey into smaller pieces.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the onion, red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and black pepper and cook until the vegetables soften and the spices become fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If cooking in a slow cooker, now is the time to transfer the ingredients to the slow cooker insert, or continue to cook on Sauté in the Instant Pot.
- Add the sweet potato, jalapeño, beans, crushed tomato, water, quinoa, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
- If cooking in a slow cooker, cover and set the time for 3 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. If cooking in the Instant Pot, bring to a boil on the Sauté function, then switch to the Slow Cooker function and set the time for 2 to 3 hours.
- Stir and add more water or chicken broth if the broth is too thick.
- Garnish with cilantro, a squeeze of lime or green onion, or whatever your chili-loving heart desires.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and endless to-do lists, whipping up something nutritious often takes a back seat. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for effortless, wholesome meals that don't compromise on flavor. And this Slow Cooker Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa is a prime example.
This recipe is not just convenient; it’s incredibly versatile. The hearty chili is packed with protein from the lean ground turkey and fiber-rich quinoa and sweet potatoes, making it a satisfying and healthy option for the whole family. It's also incredibly customizable. Love a little heat? Add more jalapeño. Prefer a milder chili? Go easy on the spice. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Feel free to add chopped carrots, zucchini, or corn. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how easily it transforms from a weekday supper to a weekend crowd-pleaser. On busy weeknights, I throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, a warm, comforting bowl of chili is ready to greet us. On weekends, I might even add some extra flair – a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or some avocado slices elevates the chili to a whole new level.
The combination of sweet potatoes, turkey, and warming spices creates a flavor profile that is both unique and deeply satisfying. The sweetness of the sweet potato balances perfectly with the savory turkey and the subtle spice of the chili powder and cumin. The quinoa adds a wonderful nutty texture and a boost of protein, making this chili a complete meal in itself. Plus, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a chili that is far superior to anything you could whip up in a hurry.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe aligns perfectly with my lifestyle goals. As a fitness enthusiast, I'm always looking for healthy and satisfying meals that fuel my workouts and support my overall well-being. This chili checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, packed with vegetables, and relatively low in fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence I can enjoy without sacrificing my fitness goals.
And let's not forget the convenience factor. The slow cooker does all the work for you! It's perfect for those days when you're short on time or simply don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients in, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic. This frees up valuable time in my day, allowing me to focus on other things – spending quality time with my family, tackling my to-do list, or even squeezing in a quick workout.
So, whether you’re a busy professional, a stay-at-home mom, or simply someone who appreciates delicious, healthy, and easy meals, this Slow Cooker Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa is a must-try. It's a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in yours too. The comforting warmth of the chili, the satisfying textures, and the ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering with friends and family. The adaptability of the recipe also means you can tailor it to your own taste preferences, making it a truly personalized culinary experience.
It's more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, smart cooking techniques, and a commitment to healthy living. Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of effortless, delicious, and nutritious home-cooked meals.
Beyond the recipe: This chili also makes an excellent meal prep option. Prepare a large batch on the weekend and enjoy individual servings throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and its flavor actually improves over time.
