Easy Slow Cooker Turkey and Lentil Chili Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin to the chili seasoning. These spices complement the turkey and lentils beautifully.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be added to the mix before the slow cooker is turned on, allowing the spice to permeate the entire batch.

If you find the chili is too thick after cooking, add a little bit of chicken broth or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Stir well after each addition. Conversely, if you prefer a thicker chili, you can leave the lid off for the final 20 minutes of cooking to allow some of the excess moisture to evaporate.

Variations

• Vegetable-Packed Chili: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the turkey and lentils. These vegetables add extra texture and sweetness, and they cook perfectly alongside the other ingredients without requiring any extra steps.
• Spicy Turkey Chili: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the mix. This variation provides a pleasant kick of heat that pairs exceptionally well with the earthy flavor of the lentils and the savory turkey.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chili has cooled to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking before placing it into the fridge to prevent bacterial growth. For longer storage, the chili can be portioned into freezer-safe bags or containers and kept for up to 3 months.

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 bowl the night before, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and simply place the bowl in the slow cooker base and turn it on in the morning for a stress-free dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve this chili hot in deep bowls, perhaps accompanied by a slice of crusty bread or a side of cornbread. The warmth of the chili makes it a fantastic meal for colder days. You might consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to add a creamy contrast to the savory turkey and lentil base.

For a fresh finish, garnish the bowls with chopped fresh cilantro or diced green onions just before serving. These additions provide a pop of color and a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the chili.

If serving for a larger group, set up a small station with different toppings so guests can customize their bowls to their own liking.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Slow Cooker Turkey and Lentil Chili

Prep 5 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 5 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup dry red lentils
• 2 tbsp chili seasoning
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the raw ground turkey into the bottom of the slow cooker, breaking it up slightly into smaller crumbles with a spoon to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the dry red lentils over the turkey. Sprinkle the chili seasoning evenly across the top, then pour the crushed tomatoes and the chicken broth over the entire mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Ensure the ground turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28.5 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

6.5 g

Fiber

12 g

Sugar

4.5 g

Sodium

750 mg

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