This hearty turkey chili is packed with flavor and warmth! It’s made with lean ground turkey, kidney beans, and a mix of spices that make it super tasty and comforting.
I love how easy it is to whip up on a chilly day. Just toss everything in one pot, let it simmer, and you’ve got a meal that makes the whole house smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is your main protein. If you prefer beef or want a vegetarian option, you could use black beans or lentils instead for the same heartiness.
Beans: Kidney beans are popular here, but pinto beans or black beans work just as well if you want variety or something you have on hand.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor, but feel free to adjust the heat with cayenne or add smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. I enjoy using a bit more cumin for a warm, earthy taste.
Tomato Products: Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce make a great base. If you like a fresher taste, crushed tomatoes or even a can of fire-roasted tomatoes can add extra flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Chili Has the Perfect Flavor?
The flavor of the chili comes from not just the ingredients, but how you prepare them. Start by cooking the onions until they are soft to build a great flavor base. Toasting the spices in the oil enhances their flavor, making the chili taste richer.
- Keep the heat at medium when toasting spices to avoid burning them.
- Let the chili simmer uncovered for a while if you want it thicker; just stir occasionally.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end! A little more salt or spice can really bring everything together.
Enjoy experimenting, and make the chili your own! It’s a great dish to customize with toppings too—think avocado, cilantro, or even jalapeños for an extra kick!
Turkey Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for garnish)
Time Needed
This delicious turkey chili will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook. Total time is approximately 50 minutes, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to serve!
Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. This creates a great flavor base for your chili.
2. Add the Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Be sure to keep stirring so it doesn’t burn—nobody wants burnt garlic!
3. Cook the Turkey
Now, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Mix in the Spices
Once the turkey is cooked, it’s time to flavor things up! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, which enhances their flavors.
5. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the tomato sauce, and the chicken broth or water. Give it a good stir to combine all those delicious ingredients.
6. Stir in Beans and Corn
Dump in the kidney beans and corn, mixing them into the chili. This adds heartiness and color to your dish.
7. Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This is where you can make it just right for your taste!
9. Serve and Enjoy
It’s finally time to serve! Ladle the hot chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions. Enjoy your warm, comforting turkey chili!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for the turkey if you prefer. Just cook it until browned and drain any excess fat for a delicious alternative.
Can This Chili Be Made in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, it can! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a convenient, hands-off approach.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in freezer-safe bags or containers!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Turkey Chili?
Toppings can really enhance your chili! Besides the basic cheddar cheese and sour cream, try adding diced avocado, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or even crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
