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Ground Turkey Chili Recipe

Ground Turkey Chili Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty ground turkey chili delivers bold southwestern flavors packed with lean protein and robust spices. Comfort meets nutrition in this easy one-pot meal that satisfies hunger while keeping health goals on track.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground turkey

Beans:

  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)

Tomato Base:

  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 can (8 ounces / 227 grams) tomato sauce

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Fat:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese
  • Diced avocado
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatic foundation by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Introduce diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon and cooking for 6-7 minutes until completely browned.
  4. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the turkey, stirring to distribute spices evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, and corn, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  6. Raise heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Check consistency and seasoning, allowing the chili to reduce uncovered for an additional 10 minutes if a thicker texture is desired.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld completely.
  9. Serve hot in individual bowls, garnishing with optional toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • Boost Protein Power by using lean ground turkey, which provides a healthier alternative to beef while maintaining rich, satisfying flavor.
  • Customize Spice Levels by adjusting chili powder and adding cayenne pepper for those who love extra heat, ensuring everyone’s taste preferences are met.
  • Make it Meal Prep Friendly by storing in airtight containers for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to develop and providing convenient, quick meals throughout the week.
  • Enhance Nutrition by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini, increasing fiber and vitamins without compromising the chili’s delicious taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-55 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg