Easy Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili for Cozy Nights

Katherine

Honoring generations of culinary artistry.

There’s something wonderfully comforting about the slow simmer of a crockpot, especially when it’s filled with hearty turkey, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices that instantly warms your soul. I stumbled upon this Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili one autumn evening when I wanted a nutritious, cozy meal without fussing in the kitchen. The sweetness of tender potatoes perfectly balances the savory turkey, creating a chili that’s as flavorful as it is wholesome. Whether you’re craving a satisfying dinner after a long day or looking to impress family and friends with a twist on classic chili, this recipe has quickly become my go-to for effortless, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Why love Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili?

Simplicity at its finest—just toss ingredients in your crockpot and let it work its magic. Nutritious blend of lean turkey and sweet potatoes offers a wholesome, comforting meal. Flavorful warmth from a perfect mix of spices makes every bite cozy. Time-saving convenience means less prep, more relaxing. Versatile dish that pleases family and friends alike with its unique sweet-savory balance.

Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili Ingredients

For the Chili Base

Ground turkey – choose lean for a healthy, protein-rich foundation that keeps the chili light.
Sweet potatoes – peeled and cubed; their natural sweetness complements the savory turkey perfectly.
Onion – diced; adds depth and a subtle sweetness when slow-cooked.
Garlic cloves – minced; for that aromatic, mouthwatering flavor boost.
Canned diced tomatoes – with juices; bring acidity and richness to balance the chili’s flavors.
Low-sodium chicken broth – ensures the chili stays moist without overpowering the other ingredients.

For the Spice Blend

Chili powder – the backbone of classic chili flavor that warms every bite.
Ground cumin – adds earthy undertones that deepen the spice profile.
Smoked paprika – brings a subtle smoky twist that elevates the dish beautifully.
Oregano – dried; for a hint of herbal brightness that refreshes the palate.
Salt and pepper – to taste; enhance and balance the layers of flavor.

Optional Additions & Garnishes

Black beans or kidney beans – canned and rinsed; add fiber and heartiness if you like a chunkier chili.
Fresh cilantro – chopped; a fresh finishing touch that brightens each spoonful.
Greek yogurt or sour cream – for a creamy topping that contrasts the chili’s warmth.

This carefully selected lineup of ingredients creates the heart and soul of your Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili, turning simple pantry staples into a dish that comforts and delights with every bite.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili

Brown turkey: In a skillet over medium-high heat cook ground turkey until no longer pink and lightly crisped (about 6 minutes), seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine ingredients: Transfer browned turkey to crockpot with cubed sweet potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic, layering for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Stir in liquids: Pour canned diced tomatoes with juices and chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is submerged in rich, savory liquid.

For the Spice Blend:

Add spices: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the chili base. Stir gently to coat ingredients evenly.
Cook low and slow: Cover crockpot and set to Low; simmer for 6–8 hours until sweet potatoes are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt, pepper, or a pinch more chili powder if you prefer extra warmth and depth.
Serve warm: Ladle chili into bowls, garnishing each with chopped cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt for creamy contrast.

Optional: Garnish with avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili?

Warm up your dining table with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich and hearty flavors of this scrumptious chili.

Creamy Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread contrasts beautifully with the savory chili, creating a comforting pairing that warms your heart.
Zesty Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a bright, crisp contrast that refreshes the palate after each spoonful.
Baked Avocado: Half an avocado drizzled with lemon juice lends a creamy, buttery richness that enhances the chili’s flavors while adding a healthy twist.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crunchy, cheesy bread brings a satisfying texture that’s perfect for dipping into the chili, making every bite irresistible.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish offers a subtle zing and pairs beautifully with the chili’s robust flavors, creating a harmonious experience.
Chilled Melon Salad: A refreshing medley of sweet melon cubes helps cleanse the palate, making it an ideal light accompaniment to the hearty chili.
Margaritas: A classic margarita, with its zesty lime flavor, pairs wonderfully with chili, making your meal feel festive and fun.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this rich mousse provides a creamy finish that complements the chili’s warmth and rounds out your meal beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground turkey and chop the sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can combine all ingredients (excluding the broth and spices) in the crockpot, refrigerate overnight, and just pour in the broth and sprinkle the spices when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply add the broth and spices, cover, and let it simmer while you enjoy a few quiet moments. This way, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort after a busy day!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili

Brown the turkey well: Browning ground turkey adds rich flavor and prevents it from becoming rubbery during slow cooking. Don’t skip this step!
Cut sweet potatoes evenly: Uniform cubes ensure they cook through simultaneously and maintain a pleasant texture without turning mushy.
Use low heat for best results: Cooking on Low for 6–8 hours allows spices to meld deeply and sweet potatoes to soften perfectly without disintegrating.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Always taste your Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili near the end to balance salt and spice levels for your preferred warmth.
Add beans last if desired: If using canned beans, stir them in during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking and preserve their texture.
Garnish creatively: Fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, or avocado slices add freshness and creaminess, enhancing the cozy comfort of your chili.

Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this chili to match your taste – it’s all about those delightful flavor twists!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra punch. This will elevate the warmth while keeping the chili delicious.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the ground turkey with textured vegetable protein or lentils to create a hearty plant-based version that everyone will love.
Sweeten the Deal: Toss in a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness and balance against the spices with a touch of caramel richness.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a cup of coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy, dreamy texture that adds a tropical flair to the chili.
Herbaceous Flair: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, added in the last hour of cooking, for a fragrant twist on the classic chili flavor.
Chunky Style: For a more rustic chili, mix in chopped bell peppers or zucchini. These veggies not only add texture but also boost the nutritional value.
Citrusy Brightness: A squeeze of lime just before serving can refresh the entire dish, giving each bowl a zesty lift that complements the warmth of the spices.
Cheesy Goodness: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or crumbled feta as a finishing touch to add creaminess and depth, creating a comforting, satisfying meal.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili

Fridge: Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze chili in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave. Stir well and heat until piping hot for the best flavor.

Tip: If you expect leftovers, save some garnishes like cilantro and yogurt separately to maintain their freshness and texture in the Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili.

Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this chili?
Choose firm sweet potatoes without dark spots or bruises. Look for ones with smooth skin and a vibrant orange color—the fresher and firmer, the better they’ll hold up during the long slow cook.

How long can I store leftover Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili in the fridge?
You can safely store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool the chili to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve its flavors and prevent bacterial growth.

Can I freeze Crockpot Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze the chili in portion-sized airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Let it cool completely first, then label with the date. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

My chili turned out too watery—how can I fix that?
No worries! If your chili is watery, you can remove the lid and cook it on High for 15–30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it up without altering the flavor much.

Is this chili safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe contains ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices that are generally safe for most people but not suitable for pets, especially dogs or cats. For allergies, check for sensitivities to ingredients like garlic or cumin. You can customize the spice blend or omit allergenic ingredients to suit dietary needs.