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Turkey Chili

A lighter version of traditional chili using lean ground turkey that creates a bowl of comfort with rich, satisfying warmth from simple pantry ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • pounds ground turkey (93/7 lean)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and look slightly translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. The turkey should develop some golden-brown bits.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until it darkens slightly. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until the spices smell toasted and aromatic.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and brown sugar. Add kidney beans, black beans, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for 30 minutes.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The chili should be thick enough to coat a spoon but not dry. If too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Notes

Perfect for meal prep and doubles easily. Freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Can be made in slow cooker by browning turkey and vegetables first, then cooking on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours. Ground chicken works as substitute for turkey. Don't skip browning the turkey properly for flavor. Avoid adding beans too early to prevent mushiness. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.