This turkey chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly nights! Made with lean ground turkey, beans, and colorful veggies, it’s both tasty and healthy.
I love how easy this chili is to whip up in one pot. Plus, it makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy it all week long—because who doesn’t like a little extra cozy food? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Using lean ground turkey makes this chili lighter. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground chicken or beef, but lean turkey provides a nice flavor without too much fat.
Chili Powder: This spice blend adds depth and warmth. If you don’t have it, you can mix cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne to create a similar flavor.
Canned Tomatoes: I recommend using diced tomatoes for texture. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop those instead, just add a touch of salt to enhance their flavor.
Beans: Kidney or pinto beans work great in this recipe. You can use black beans for a different twist or even skip beans entirely for a low-carb version.
Toppings: Cheddar cheese and sour cream are classics, but avocado or crushed tortilla chips can add a fun twist too!
How Do You Get Maximum Flavor from Your Chili?
Building layers of flavor is key to a delicious chili. Start with sautéing onions and peppers to develop a rich base. Don’t rush adding the garlic; let it cook just until fragrant—burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Toast your spices for a minute after adding the ground turkey. This releases their oils and boosts flavor.
- Letting the chili simmer uncovered thickens it up nicely, concentrating the flavors.
- For more depth, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a spoonful of brown sugar to balance out the flavors.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, especially before serving. Sometimes a pinch of salt or squeeze of lime can elevate your dish beautifully!
How to Make Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey chili will take about 15 minutes to prepare and will need to simmer for about 30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious, hearty pot of turkey chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until they have softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. This really enhances the flavor of the dish!
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up while it cooks. Stir until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Mix in the Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the spices cook with the turkey for about 1 minute to bring out their flavors.
5. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Stir in Corn and Beans:
Next, add the corn and beans to the pot. Give it a good stir, and then bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
7. Let it Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. The chili should thicken up, and the flavors will meld beautifully!
8. Adjust the Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and garnished with sliced green onions. Enjoy your cozy meal!
This hearty turkey chili is perfect for a cozy meal and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef. Just be aware that ground beef is higher in fat, so you may want to drain some excess fat after browning to keep the chili from being too greasy.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like your chili with more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, turkey chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Turkey Chili?
This chili is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious topped with avocado slices or alongside a refreshing guacamole!
