Name: Turkey Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485571H21M27S
Total time: PT-485571H21M27S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped; 1 pound extra-lean ground turkey (99%); 4 tablespoons mild chili powder; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes; 1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 (15-ounce) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, rinsed and drained; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro, sour cream

Jump to Recipe

Turkey chili is a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table without being overly heavy. Perfect for chilly nights, game days, or casual get-togethers, this dish combines lean ground turkey with a medley of beans, vegetables, and spices to create a deeply flavorful and nutritious meal. Unlike traditional beef chili, turkey chili is a lighter option, yet it delivers all the rich, bold taste you’d expect from a classic chili. It’s also incredibly easy to customize depending on what you have in your pantry or how spicy you like your food.

Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting friends, turkey chili is a go-to option that never disappoints. It’s freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying bowl. Best of all, it gets better with time—the flavors deepen after a day or two, making leftovers just as appealing as the first serving. In this article, we’ll walk you through why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation, how to make it, and all the ways you can adapt, store, and serve it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative – Made with lean ground turkey, this chili is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional beef chili.
One-Pot Convenience – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and meal prep super simple.
Incredibly Flavorful – Packed with spices, beans, and veggies, this chili doesn’t skimp on bold, savory taste.
Customizable – Easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry—make it spicier, milder, vegetarian, or even keto-friendly.
Meal Prep Friendly – Freezes well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking and leftovers.

Ingredients

Ground turkey
Onion
Garlic
Bell pepper
Tomatoes
Tomato paste
Kidney beans
Black beans
Chicken broth
Olive oil
Chili powder
Cumin
Paprika
Oregano
Salt
Pepper

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap the turkey for lentils or extra beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
Low-Carb: Omit the beans and add chopped zucchini, cauliflower, or mushrooms for texture and volume.
Slow Cooker Method: Brown the turkey and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Kid-Friendly: Reduce the spice levels and add a touch of honey or a sprinkle of cheese on top.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the turkey and vegetables with the spices.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, drained beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a wooden spoon to break up the turkey evenly while browning.
Sauté the spices for a minute before adding liquids to enhance their aroma.
Let the chili simmer uncovered to allow it to thicken naturally.
Add a splash of lime juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.

How to Serve

Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, or chopped cilantro.
Serve over rice, baked potatoes, or with a side of cornbread.
Add tortilla chips or crackers for crunch.
Use leftovers to make chili nachos or stuffed bell peppers.
Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute for turkey in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is dairy-free. Just avoid dairy-based toppings like cheese or sour cream.

3. Can I make this in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Use the sauté function for steps 1–3, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes and allow a natural release.

4. What beans work best in turkey chili?

Kidney beans and black beans are traditional, but you can use pinto or cannellini beans as well.

5. How can I thicken my chili?

Simmer uncovered to let excess liquid evaporate, or mash some of the beans for a thicker consistency.

6. Is turkey chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (like broth and seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, corn, carrots, or spinach make great additions.

8. How do I make this chili less spicy?

Use mild chili powder and skip hot ingredients like jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

9. Can I cook this ahead of time for a party?

Definitely—make it a day in advance; it tastes even better the next day.

10. What toppings go well with turkey chili?

Cheddar cheese, avocado, cilantro, sour cream, green onions, and hot sauce are all great options.

Conclusion

Turkey chili is a flavorful, healthy twist on a classic comfort food. It’s easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners. With endless variations and a taste that only improves over time, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer with ready-to-go meals, turkey chili delivers on all fronts—flavor, convenience, and comfort.