Name: Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, chopped cilantro

A cozy and hearty chili made with lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and a blend of warm spices — this one-pot wonder is my go-to when I want something wholesome, filling, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for cold days or anytime I crave a comforting meal with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 lb ground turkey

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced

1(14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1(15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, chopped cilantro

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then I add the chopped onions and sauté them until they’re soft, about 2–3 minutes.

Next, I add the minced garlic and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.

I stir in the diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper and let them cook for another 3–4 minutes.

Then I add the diced tomatoes, both beans, chicken broth, and all the spices. I make sure to stir well to combine everything.

I bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Before serving, I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

I serve it hot, topped with whatever I have on hand—sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories per serving: 310 kcal

Variations

I sometimes switch things up depending on what I have available. Instead of ground turkey, I use ground chicken or even leftover shredded rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian version, I skip the meat and add an extra can of beans or lentils. If I want it spicier, I add jalapeños or more cayenne. And for added depth, a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of lime juice at the end gives it a little zing.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat it, I just warm it on the stove over medium heat or microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each. This chili also freezes well—I let it cool completely, then freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs

How can I make this chili vegetarian?

I replace the ground turkey with an extra can of beans, lentils, or even plant-based crumbles to keep it hearty and filling.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the turkey and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?

If I don’t have sweet potatoes, I use butternut squash, regular potatoes, or even carrots for a similar texture and sweetness.

Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild kick from the chili powder and optional cayenne. I adjust the heat by adding or reducing the cayenne or tossing in a diced jalapeño if I want more spice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and I actually think it tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Conclusion

This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is one of my favorite recipes to warm up with. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this chili always hits the spot.

📖 Recipe:

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A cozy and hearty one-pot chili made with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, beans, and warm spices. Perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal on cold days.