This spicy, flavorful chili is perfect for cozy nights when you want something hearty without the fuss. Just set it and forget it in the slow cooker, then enjoy a rich, smoky meal with a fiery kick.
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned—this should take about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked turkey to your slow cooker, and drain any excess oil from the skillet.
Next, add the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet and heat it over medium-high. Toss in the red pepper and garlic, cooking them until they soften, about 3 minutes. Then, add this mixture to the slow cooker with the turkey.
Now, stir in the kidney beans, black beans, black-eyed peas, tomato sauce, and the habanero pepper. Give everything a good mix, cover, and set your slow cooker to High for 3 hours or Low for 7 hours.
About an hour before it’s done, add the corn, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, basil, and sage. Stir it all together and let it cook for that last hour. When it’s ready, taste and add salt if needed.
- Remove the seeds from the habaneros if you want to reduce the heat without losing flavor.
- Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker for extra depth of flavor.
- Stir occasionally if your slow cooker tends to cook unevenly to prevent sticking.
This chili packs a bold, spicy punch thanks to the habanero peppers, balanced by rich, slow-cooked flavors. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and want a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool down the spice. Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and warm cornbread or tortilla chips make great accompaniments to balance the heat and add texture.
Allow the chili to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors.
