Easy Slow Cooker Fajita Turkey Chili Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sauté the onions and peppers in a pan with a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is entirely optional. This step adds a layer of caramelized sweetness to the vegetables that complements the smokiness of the fire-roasted tomatoes perfectly if you have the extra time to spare.

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can remove the lid for the last thirty minutes of cooking, which allows some of the excess moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during the final minutes of cooking to help the sauce bind and thicken into a richer, heartier consistency.

Variations

• Black Bean Fajita Chili: Add a 15-ounce can of rinsed black beans during the last hour of cooking to introduce extra fiber and a heartier texture to the dish without changing the flavor profile.
• Spicy Fajita Chili: Incorporate two finely diced jalapeño peppers with the onions and bell peppers to add a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the fire-roasted tomatoes.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the chili is steaming hot and reaches 165°F (74°C).

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them into airtight containers. Proper storage in the refrigerator helps maintain the quality and safety of the food.

If you have a large batch, divide it into smaller, portion-sized containers so that they cool faster and are easier to grab for quick meals later in the week.

This chili is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight.

You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply take it out, place it into the slow cooker housing, and start the cooking process as directed.

Serving ideas

Serve the hot chili in individual bowls. It pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or sliced avocado.

If you want to add some crunch, consider serving it with a side of tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas to scoop up every bit of the delicious tomato and meat mixture.

For a complete meal, serve the chili alongside a simple green salad or some steamed rice. The versatility of this dish makes it great for game day gatherings or casual family dinners.

Adjust the toppings to suit individual preferences, allowing everyone to customize their bowl for a personalized dining experience that highlights the smoky, vibrant flavors of the fajita seasoning.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Slow Cooker Fajita Turkey Chili

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups bell pepper strips
• 1 cup sliced onion
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
• 28 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place the raw ground turkey into the bottom of the slow cooker, breaking it into smaller crumbles with a spoon to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Layer the bell pepper strips and sliced onions directly over the turkey. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning evenly across the vegetables and meat, ensuring everything is well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Pour the fire-roasted diced tomatoes over the seasoned vegetables. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Ensure the ground turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

15 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

4 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.