Description
This hearty turkey chili is a protein-packed, lighter twist on classic chili made with lean ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or game day.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with desired toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.
Notes
Swap kidney beans for pinto beans if preferred.
Add corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra veggies.
Adjust cayenne or add jalapeño for more heat.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Stir in Greek yogurt or cream cheese for creaminess.
Chili thickens as it sits; add broth to loosen if reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
