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Turkey Chili: The Ultimate Guide to a Healthy and Delicious Meal


  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

Hearty, flavorful turkey chili with beans, corn, and spices. Easy one-pot meal for weeknights or gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, chicken broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or an extra can of beans.
  • Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  • Instant Pot: Sauté vegetables and turkey, then add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
  • Add Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or celery.
  • Thickening the Chili: Mash some of the beans or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
  • Freezing: Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare a day or two in advance and store in the refrigerator.
  • Toppings Galore: Get creative with toppings like pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled tortilla chips.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes