This turkey chili is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Made with lean ground turkey, beans, and tomatoes, it’s a perfect dish for chilly days or game nights!
I love how easy it is to make a big pot and enjoy it all week. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the main protein in this chili. If you want a richer flavor, you can substitute it with ground beef or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a mix of chopped vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
Beans: Both kidney and black beans add protein and texture. Canned beans save time, but you can use your own cooked beans too. If beans are off the menu, consider adding corn or chickpeas for a different twist.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste. If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. You can use paprika in place of smoked paprika if you prefer a milder taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Chili Is Packed with Flavor?
Flavor building is essential in cooking chili! Start by cooking the onions and garlic in olive oil until soft – this creates a tasty base. When you add the spices, cooking them briefly helps release their full flavor. Don’t rush this step; let everything blend nicely!
- Sauté onions and garlic until soft for a sweet and aromatic base.
- Toast the spices in the mixture for a minute before adding liquids; this enhances their flavors.
- Let the chili simmer to let all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Finally, always taste before serving and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime can make all the difference!
How to Make Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chili Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
For The Beans and Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
For The Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Cornbread or tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making this turkey chili takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 30-40 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’re looking at just under an hour for a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This helps to build the flavor!
2. Add Garlic & Ground Turkey:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, toss in the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which usually takes around 6-8 minutes.
3. Season the Chili:
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Cook for just 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Mix in the Beans & Sauce:
Next, add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together so the ingredients are well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes. Give it a stir occasionally. If it becomes too thick, just add a bit more broth or water to get your desired consistency.
6. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. Serve it hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with a slice of cornbread or some tortilla chips on the side for extra fun!
This turkey chili is hearty, flavorful, and comforting—perfect for a cozy meal! Enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for the turkey for a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef to keep the chili from being greasy.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! You can use a taco seasoning packet as a substitute for the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
Can I Make This Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the turkey, transfer it to a slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. This method deepens the flavors beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover turkey chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well—just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.
