Description
This Turkey Chili is hearty, flavorful, and packed with lean protein and bold spices! Made with ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and smoky seasonings, this one-pot comfort food is easy to make and perfect for meal prep, game day, or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chili:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean for best texture!)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green!)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor!)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water for a thicker chili!)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (adds richness!)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth!)
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika!)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat!)
For Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped cilantro or green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Turkey & Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
- Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until soft (about 3 minutes).
Step 2: Add the Seasonings & Liquids
- Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Simmer & Develop Flavor
- Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle chili into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
- Serve warm with cornbread, rice, or a side salad!
Serving Suggestions
- With Cornbread: The ultimate chili combo!
- Over Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal.
- As Chili Dogs: Spoon over grilled hot dogs and top with cheese!
Notes
- Make it Thicker: Let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans for a richer texture.
- Spicier? Add more cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Want it smoky? Stir in ½ tsp chipotle powder or a dash of liquid smoke.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown turkey first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.