This healthy chili is packed with colorful veggies, tender beans, and tasty spices. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for chilly days or cozy nights!
You’ll love how filling it is, and guess what? It’s easy to make in one pot! I often whip up a batch and save some for quick lunches—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey or Beef: I often use ground turkey for a lean option. If you want a heartier flavor, lean ground beef works too. You could also go meatless by using lentils or plant-based ground substitutes for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Kidney beans are a great choice, but black beans or pinto beans work well too. If you’re aiming for lower carbs, you can omit beans completely or swap them for more veggies.
Butternut Squash/Sweet Potato: This adds a nice sweetness and texture. If these aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes or even zucchini. Just adjust cooking time based on the vegetable you pick.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, and you might consider a pinch of cayenne for heat.
How Can I Get My Chili to Taste Amazing?
The secret to a delicious chili lies in layering the flavors. Here’s how:
- Sauté Aromatics: Begin by cooking onions, garlic, and peppers in olive oil. This releases aromas and flavors that form the base of your chili.
- Browning the Meat: Make sure the meat is well-browned. This creates a richer flavor profile.
- Simmering: Low and slow is the way to go. Allow the chili to simmer for 30-40 minutes to meld flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chili before serving. You may want to add a pinch more salt or spice depending on how it tastes in the last moments of cooking.
Healthy Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (no salt added if possible)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup butternut squash or sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup low sodium vegetable or chicken broth
Spices:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced red chili pepper
- Dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to cook. Total time is approximately 1 hour from start to finish. It’s simple and perfect for meal prep or serving a group!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn a nice, translucent color.
2. Cook the Meat:
Next, add the ground turkey or beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the meat is browned all over, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add More Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrot and cubed butternut squash or sweet potato, mixing everything together for about a minute.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, making sure everything is nicely mixed.
5. Season the Chili:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and then bring the chili to a simmer. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the chili to simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to blend nicely.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is your chance to make it just how you like it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious healthy chili hot, and don’t forget those optional toppings! Add diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced red chili pepper for a little kick, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to make it creamy.
Enjoy your hearty and nutritious chili! It’s perfect to warm you up and keep you satisfied.
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While lean ground turkey or beef is great, you can also use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same for meat-based versions.
Can I Prepare This Chili in Advance?
Yes, you can make this chili ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
What If I Don’t Have Some Ingredients?
No problem! You can substitute beans with lentils or skip them altogether if preferred. If butternut squash or sweet potatoes aren’t available, regular potatoes or zucchini are good alternatives—just adjust cooking times as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
