Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Turkey Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 1x
  • Category: Dinner, Meal Prep
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

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

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
  3. Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until soft (about 3 minutes).

Step 2: Add the Seasonings & Liquids

  1. Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  2. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer & Develop Flavor

  1. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as needed.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Ladle chili into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
  2. 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.