Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that practically cooks itself? This healthy, protein-packed Slow Cooker Turkey Kale Chili is your answer! It’s the perfect hearty dish to warm your family on colder days and an absolute crowd-pleaser for any game day gathering.
The Ultimate Slow Cooker Turkey Kale Chili: A Family Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a simmering chili filling your home, especially when it comes from the effortless magic of a slow cooker. As someone who appreciates both convenience and hearty, flavorful meals, I find my slow cooker to be an indispensable kitchen tool, particularly during the busy fall and winter months. Preparing a delicious meal doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and this recipe truly embodies that philosophy.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Turkey Kale Chili
Today, we’re combining two of my favorite things: the ease of slow cooking and the robust flavors of a truly satisfying chili. This Slow Cooker Turkey Kale Chili stands out as a healthy, protein-packed option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Some might raise an eyebrow at the thought of “kale in chili,” but I assure you, the kale is incredibly subtle. It blends seamlessly into the rich texture of the chili, adding a powerful nutritional boost without altering the classic chili experience. You can feel absolutely wonderful serving this big, warm bowl of goodness to your family, knowing it’s packed with wholesome ingredients. My own children, who can be quite discerning eaters, didn’t even detect the kale!
Beyond its incredible flavor and health benefits, this Turkey Kale Chili is remarkably versatile. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight dinner, providing warmth and sustenance after a long day. But where it truly shines is as the star of your next game day spread. Imagine a warm, aromatic pot of this hearty chili ready and waiting on your counter, keeping hot for hours while you enjoy the game with friends and family. I love to set up a vibrant “chili bar” with an array of garnishes, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to perfection. Think fresh cilantro, a dollop of cooling sour cream or Greek yogurt, crunchy tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of diced red onion. Having a collection of reliable chili recipes ready for the autumn and winter seasons is a true blessing. Not only is chili incredibly simple to prepare, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. I always make extra so I can portion out several containers to freeze for future quick and easy meals!
Supporting Healthy Habits with Produce for Kids and Meijer
I’m thrilled to share that this Hearty Turkey Kale Chili recipe comes to you as part of an exciting partnership with Produce for Kids and Meijer. This collaboration highlights a fantastic initiative focused on promoting healthy eating habits for families while also giving back to the community. The annual Produce for Kids campaign is a wonderful program taking place at all Meijer stores, running from September 4th to October 1st. During this period, the campaign raises crucial funds for Jump with Jill, an award-winning nutrition education program that travels to schools across the nation, empowering children to make healthier choices.
This initiative not only supports an invaluable cause but also provides Meijer shoppers with an abundance of healthy meal solutions, delicious recipes, and practical tips for nutritious living. The impact of this campaign has been significant: since 2013, Produce for Kids has generously donated $378,508 to Jump with Jill, making a tangible difference in children’s health education. Furthermore, the campaign has supported over 75 schools within the Meijer footprint since the fall of 2014, bringing vital nutrition lessons directly to students.
Residents in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin, aged 18 or older (or parents/guardians on behalf of minors), have the chance to win a $100 Meijer gift card. Simply share pictures of your family shopping for, preparing, or cooking a meal using the hashtag #FamilyFoodRockstar during the campaign period. It’s a fun way to engage with the campaign and celebrate healthy family meals!
This inspiring campaign is made possible through the support of nine participating fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers, who represent a wide array of fresh produce categories. These dedicated sponsors include:
- Dole® Packaged Salads
- Earthbound Farm® Organic Mixed Baby Kale
- Highline Mushrooms®
- SUNSET® Campari® Brand Cocktail Tomatoes
- Michigan Apples
- Pero Family Farms® Steamy Cut Vegetables
- Green Giant™ Fresh Klondike Rose® & Red Potatoes
- Lil Snappers® Bartlett Pears from Stemilt Growers
- Marzetti® Caramel Dip
For more detailed information on how you can support this impactful campaign and access additional resources, please visit www.produceforkids.com/Meijer. If you’re seeking even more delicious and healthy recipes tailored for kids and families, be sure to explore ProduceForKids.com, where you’ll find over 200 registered dietitian-approved and family-tested recipes. Stay connected and inspired by following Produce for Kids on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for continuous recipe ideas and healthy eating tips throughout the year. You can also find out how to participate in special events here! To keep up with all the program’s exciting updates and get the latest recipe tips and information, follow the hashtag #produceforkids on social media.
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Slow Cooker Turkey Kale Chili
Julia Jolliff
Save
Pin
15 minutes
6 hours
6 hours
15 minutes
8
servings
Ingredients
-
1 lb. lean ground turkey -
1 small sweet onion, diced -
1 bell pepper, seeded, diced -
4 cloves garlic, minced -
1 jalapeño, seeds removed, chopped {optional for spice} -
1 1/2 Tablespoons chili powder -
1 1/2 Tablespoons cumin -
1/2 teaspoon paprika -
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper , {optional for spice} -
2 teaspoons dried oregano -
2 Tablespoons tomato paste -
2 cans diced tomatoes, drained -
15 oz. low-sodium black beans, drained, rinsed -
15 oz. corn, drained, no salt added -
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth -
4 cups baby kale -
2 Greek yogurt (for garnish) -
Unsalted tortilla chips, crushed (for garnish) -
Cilantro (fresh, chopped, for garnish) -
Red onion, Diced (for garnish) -
Shredded Cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Brown the lean ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Transfer the browned turkey to your slow cooker. Add the diced sweet onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño (if using for a touch of spice). Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if desired), dried oregano, and tomato paste. Finally, add the drained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, drained corn, and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine. Cook on low for 5 hours. -
After 4 1/2 hours of cooking, carefully open the slow cooker and add the 4 cups of baby kale. Stir the kale into the chili until it is mostly submerged. The heat from the chili will quickly wilt the kale. Cover and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the kale is tender and fully incorporated. -
Ladle the hot chili into individual bowls. Garnish generously with your favorite toppings such as Greek yogurt (or sour cream), crushed unsalted tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and shredded cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting, healthy meal!
Notes
- Protein Options: Feel free to customize this chili with your preferred protein. Ground chicken, lean ground beef, or even a combination would work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey and add an extra can of beans or more vegetables.
- Greens Swap: If kale isn’t your favorite, or if you have other greens on hand, spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens can be substituted. Add them towards the end of the cooking process just like the kale.
- Bean Varieties: Experiment with different types of beans! Kidney beans, cannellini beans, or pinto beans would all make excellent additions or substitutions for the black beans.
- Freezing for Later: This chili freezes beautifully. Once cooled completely, transfer leftovers to airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper to control the heat level. For a milder chili, omit them entirely. For extra kick, add another jalapeño or a pinch more cayenne.
Nutrition
Calories:
237
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
34
g
,
Protein:
23
g
,
Fat:
3
g
,
Saturated Fat:
1
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Trans Fat:
0.01
g
,
Cholesterol:
31
mg
,
Sodium:
146
mg
,
Potassium:
890
mg
,
Fiber:
9
g
,
Sugar:
7
g
,
Vitamin A:
2466
IU
,
Vitamin C:
44
mg
,
Calcium:
110
mg
,
Iron:
5
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is an approximation. Values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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This recipe is graciously provided by Produce for Kids, used with their kind permission.
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A heartfelt thank you to Meijer and Produce for Kids for sponsoring this post. Please note that all opinions expressed are, as always, 100% my own.