Hearty Turkey Chili

Embrace the warmth of a comforting bowl of Turkey Chili, a lighter yet equally satisfying take on a beloved classic. This recipe combines lean ground turkey with hearty beans, vibrant vegetables, and a smoky blend of spices, all simmered to perfection. It's an easy-to-make, high-protein meal perfect for any night of the week, delivering robust flavor in every spoonful.

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The secret to this chili's deep flavor lies in building layers of taste. Sautéing the aromatics, browning the turkey, and blooming the spices in the pot before adding the liquids ensures that every ingredient contributes to a rich, cohesive, and delicious final dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (14.5 oz/410 g each) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 can (6 oz/170 g) tomato paste
• 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the turkey and vegetables.

Step 5

Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 6

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 9

Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a thicker chili with a more concentrated flavor, simply let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of the cooking time. This allows some of the excess liquid to evaporate.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. You can substitute ground chicken for turkey or use different beans like pinto or cannellini. To make it spicier, feel free to add more jalapeño or increase the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this chili hot with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Offer a variety of toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and fresh lime wedges to let everyone customize their bowl.

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This hearty turkey chili is a fantastic dish for meal prepping, as its flavors become even more delicious the next day. Enjoy this simple, flavorful, and comforting meal any time you need a little warmth.

Recipe FAQs

→ Is turkey chili healthier than beef chili?

Turkey chili typically contains less saturated fat and fewer calories than traditional beef versions while still providing plenty of protein. The lean ground turkey keeps things lighter without sacrificing heartiness or satisfaction.

→ How can I make this chili thicker?

Simmer uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes of cooking time to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot to release starches that naturally thicken the chili.

→ What toppings work best with turkey chili?

Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of lime add brightness. Shredded cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt provide creamy contrast. For crunch, try crushed tortilla chips or saltines on top.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Brown the turkey and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The flavors develop beautifully with the longer cooking time.

→ How long does turkey chili keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, turkey chili will keep for 4–5 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after a day or two, making it excellent for meal prep. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely. Start with less cayenne and jalapeño if you prefer mild chili, or increase both for more heat. You can always add hot sauce or red pepper flakes at the end to taste without affecting the overall balance.