Go Back
Hearty turkey chili recipe topped with avocado, cheddar cheese, and cilantro in a white bowl

Turkey Chili Recipe

Ella
A hearty, healthy one-pot turkey chili packed with bold flavor, lean protein, and easy comfort for weeknights or meal prep.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Protein:

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey preferably 93% lean
  • Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (red or green)
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • Optional 1 jalapeño, diced (for heat)

Tomato Base:

  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Beans:

  • 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Spices & Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Liquids & Cooking Oil:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

For Topping:

  • avocado, sour cream, cilantro, cheese, tortilla chips.

Instructions
 

Sauté the aromatics:

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Cook the garlic and turkey:

  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the ground turkey and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink.

Season everything:

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

Add tomato base:

  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix until fully combined.

Stir in beans and broth:

  • Add the black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth (or water). Stir everything together and bring to a light boil.

Simmer:

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you want a thicker consistency, remove the lid during the last 5–10 minutes.

Final taste & serve:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 320 kcal
Total Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 2g
Protein 28g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fiber 8g
Sugars 6g
Sodium 650mg
Approximate values based on standard ingredients.
Keyword Turkey Chili Recipe