Slow Cooker Chili Using Leftover Turkey

Why You'll Love Making This

This recipe is a great way to transform leftover turkey into a warm and comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and fills your home with inviting aromas. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld perfectly, making each bite rich and satisfying.

Step 1

Soak the beans in a large bowl, covering them with plenty of cool water. Let them sit for at least 8 hours or overnight to soften. While the beans soak, heat some butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic, and cook until everything is nice and tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2

Once the beans are drained, add them to your slow cooker along with the turkey carcass, sautéed veggies, chicken broth, chili powder, and bay leaves. Set it to cook on low for about 8 hours so all those flavors can meld together.

Step 3

After the long cook, fish out the turkey bones and discard them. Then stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, masa, hot sauce, and your favorite spices like chili powder, white pepper, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt to taste. Let the chili simmer on low for another half hour to thicken up and bring everything together. Enjoy!

Serving Ideas For Family Meals

Serve with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess. Pair with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions can add a nice pop of color and freshness.

How To Refrigerate This Dish

Let the chili cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried?

Yes, but reduce the initial cooking time since canned beans are already soft. Add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?

Soaking helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time, but if short on time, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 1-2 minutes then letting them sit for an hour.

Can I use turkey meat instead of the carcass?

Yes, you can add leftover turkey meat for a chunkier chili, but the carcass adds more flavor to the broth during slow cooking.

What can I substitute for masa if I don’t have any?

Cornmeal or finely ground corn flour can be used as a substitute to help thicken the chili.

How spicy will this chili be?

It has a moderate spice level from jalapeño, chili powder, and hot sauce, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less of these ingredients.

Can I prepare this recipe in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beans and turkey carcass in a large pot on low heat for about 2-3 hours, then add remaining ingredients and simmer until thickened.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the chili cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I add other vegetables to this chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like carrots, zucchini, or celery to customize the flavor and texture.