Go Back
A bowl of crockpot turkey chili without beans topped with avocado and green onions on a wooden table by a window.
Dreena Grace Burthon

Crockpot Turkey Chili (No Beans, High Protein)

A hearty, low-carb crockpot turkey chili made without beans. High in protein, rich in flavor, and perfect for diabetic or keto-friendly meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey 93% lean recommended
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes no sugar added
  • 1 cup chicken broth low sodium
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste no sugar added
  • 2 tbsp chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, adds depth
  • 1 tsp oregano dried
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust as needed

Equipment

  • 1 Crockpot or Slow Cooker 6-quart size works best
  • 1 Large Skillet For browning turkey before slow cooking
  • 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring ingredients
  • 1 Chef’s Knife For chopping vegetables
  • 1 Cutting board Use sturdy, non-slip board
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons To measure spices and liquids

Method
 

  1. Brown the turkey: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Add vegetables: Stir in chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  3. Transfer to crockpot: Move the cooked turkey and vegetables into the slow cooker.
  4. Add remaining ingredients: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cook slowly: Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor becomes.
  6. Adjust before serving: Taste and add more seasoning if needed. If the chili seems thin, let it sit uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken naturally.
  7. Serve warm: Spoon into bowls and top with avocado, green onions, or a small scoop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Notes

  • This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens overnight, making it even better the next day.
  • To freeze, let it cool completely and portion into airtight containers. It keeps for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove.
  • For a thicker texture, stir in a little riced cauliflower or let the chili sit uncovered for 10 minutes before serving.
  • If you like it spicy, add cayenne or diced jalapeño when cooking.
  • For toppings, try diced avocado, green onions, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for creaminess without added carbs.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly.