Ground Turkey Chili
Ground Turkey Chili is a simple chili recipe that is perfect for game day, a family get together, or warm dinner on a chilly day. Enjoy lean ground turkey, your favorite can of beans, and the best chili toppings in this version of the classic recipe.
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The best thing about this hearty turkey chili recipe is that it can be made in just an hour. A lot of chili recipes require a multi-hour ordeal in the crockpot, but this simple stove top dinner makes cooking chili quick and effective! Being able to make this, even on a busy weeknight, proves this to be one of our favorite chili recipes.
Using ground turkey gives you a leaner option as well as providing a slightly different flavor compared to beef chili. You can pick and choose the kinds of beans that fit your taste the best, but we’ve found that kidney and black beans are a simple and reliable option. You can use white beans or pinto beans, too. This healthy turkey chili recipe can benefit by adding some extra veggies like carrots, corn, or even zucchini, too.
Chili is one of the best dinners to have if you need leftovers. Easy to reheat, chili is one of those meals that tastes just as good next time if not better than the first time you have it! Don’t be afraid to make a big pot of chili, store leftovers in the fridge for later in the week, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Hearty and wholesome: Packed with lean protein, beans, and vegetables for a balanced meal.
One-pot recipe: Everything cooks together for easy prep and cleanup.
Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels or add your favorite beans and veggies.
Comfort food made healthy: All the flavor of classic chili with lighter ingredients.
Ingredients to Make Ground Turkey Chili:
- olive oil. Adds richness and helps brown the turkey evenly.
- ground turkey. A lean alternative to ground beef that still delivers hearty flavor, choose 93% lean for the best texture.
- onion and green pepper. Build the aromatic base of the chili with natural sweetness and crunch.
- garlic cloves. Adds bold flavor and depth, freshly minced works best.
- beans. Provide protein, fiber, and texture, use canned for convenience or cooked from dry if preferred.
- diced tomatoes. Bring acidity and freshness to balance the richness of the chili.
- tomato sauce. Thickens the chili and gives it that signature saucy consistency.
- chili seasoning. A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and spices, store-bought or homemade both work great.
How to Make Ground Turkey Chili:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
- Stir in onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like green onions, shredded cheese, diced avocado, or sour cream.
Recommended Equipment
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Brown the turkey well: Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring to develop rich flavor.
- Use quality chili seasoning: A good blend makes all the difference, adjust heat by adding cayenne or extra chili powder.
- Simmer uncovered: This allows the chili to thicken and the flavors to deepen.
- Add more veggies: Try corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
- Adjust consistency: If too thick, add ½ cup water or broth. For thicker chili, simmer longer.
- Make it smoky: Stir in a little smoked paprika or chipotle powder for added depth.
- Topping ideas: Garnish with shredded cheese, diced onions, cilantro, or lime juice for brightness.
- Leftovers tip: Chili flavor intensifies overnight, perfect for next-day lunches or freezing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Avocado Tomato Cucumber Salad
- Gluten-Free Sourdough Bread
- Loaded Cheese Fries
- Cucumber Onion Salad
- Roasted Zucchini and Tomatoes
How to Store:
Refrigerator: Store cooled chili in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
FAQs:
Yes, brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Definitely. Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or even ground chicken, just drain excess grease after browning.
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Ground Turkey Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup green pepper, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 2 cans tomato sauce
- ¼ cup chili seasoning
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
- Stir in onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like green onions, shredded cheese, diced avocado, or sour cream.
Nutrition
Notes
- Brown the turkey well: Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring to develop rich flavor.
- Use quality chili seasoning: A good blend makes all the difference, adjust heat by adding cayenne or extra chili powder.
- Simmer uncovered: This allows the chili to thicken and the flavors to deepen.
- Add more veggies: Try corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
- Adjust consistency: If too thick, add ½ cup water or broth. For thicker chili, simmer longer.
- Make it smoky: Stir in a little smoked paprika or chipotle powder for added depth.
- Topping ideas: Garnish with shredded cheese, diced onions, cilantro, or lime juice for brightness.
- Leftovers tip: Chili flavor intensifies overnight, perfect for next-day lunches or freezing.
Nutrition Facts:
These nutrition facts are estimated and can vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. Always consult product labels or a nutrition professional for precise information.Calories: ~320
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 8g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g
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