Looking for a hearty, flavor-packed meal to spice up your dinner routine? This Turkey Chili Verde is a delicious, protein-rich dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. With tender turkey, vibrant spices, and a creamy, tangy base, every spoonful delivers comfort in a bowl.
Chili has been a staple comfort food since the early 19th century, evolving from frontier cookery into countless regional variations. While traditional Texas chili famously skips the beans, our version fully embraces them for extra nutrition and texture.
So, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this Turkey Chili Verde recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!
What Is Turkey Chili?
Have you ever wondered why this dish is called “chili”? The name comes from the Spanish word chile, referring to the spicy peppers used in the recipe. But here’s a fun fact: chili as we know it today wasn’t invented until settlers combined Old World ingredients like meat and beans with New World staples like tomatoes and chilies. Over time, chili evolved into countless variations, each region putting its own spin on the classic dish.
Why do we call it turkey chili? Instead of using beef or chicken, this version swaps in lean ground turkey for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor. Plus, who can resist the allure of a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down? Whether you’re trying to cut back on red meat or simply want to switch things up, turkey chili is here to save the day.
As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” This chili will win over anyone lucky enough to taste it!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Chili
Here are three reasons why this recipe stands out from the crowd:
1. Unique and Memorable Flavor Profile
This chili isn’t your average can-of-soup substitute. With a blend of smoky chili powder, earthy cumin, zesty cayenne, and even a hint of cocoa powder for depth, every bite bursts with complexity. Pro tip: Don’t skip the cocoa—it adds richness without making the dish sweet.
2. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Making chili at home saves you big bucks compared to ordering takeout or buying pre-made meals. Ground turkey, canned beans, and pantry staples like onions and garlic come together for a meal that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
3. Versatile Toppings Galore
From creamy avocado slices to gooey shredded cheese and tangy sour cream, the possibilities for toppings are endless. Customize your bowl to suit your mood or dietary preferences. Need more heat? Add a dollop of salsa or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Love hearty Southwestern meals but want something lighter? This turkey chili delivers all the bold flavors of our popular Beef Enchilada Casserole but with a leaner twist. Keep reading for the full step-by-step guide!
How to Make Turkey Chili
Quick Overview
This recipe is as easy as it gets. Start by sautéing aromatic veggies, then brown the ground turkey before adding spices, canned tomatoes, and beans. Let everything simmer together for 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, and you have a pot of pure comfort waiting to be devoured.
With only 10 minutes of prep time and an hour of hands-off cooking, this chili checks all the boxes for convenience. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and enjoy leftovers for days.
Key Ingredients for Turkey Chili
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients:
- Olive Oil: For sautéing vegetables.
- Onion & Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall aroma.
- Ground Turkey: Choose darker cuts for better flavor and juiciness.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper create the foundation of the dish.
- Diced Tomatoes: Provides acidity and liquid base.
- Red Kidney Beans: Adds fiber and protein; feel free to swap with black or pinto beans if preferred.
- Chicken Broth: Thins out the mixture for desired consistency.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
Optional extras:
- Cocoa Powder: For deeper umami notes.
- Celery: Adds subtle crunch and freshness.
- Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow along with these straightforward steps to create your own batch of turkey chili:
- Heat the Oil
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. - Cook the Turkey
Increase the heat slightly and add 1 pound of ground turkey. Use the back of a spoon to break it into small chunks, ensuring even browning. Cook until no pink remains. - Season the Mixture
Stir in 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toast the spices briefly to release their aromas. - Add Liquids and Beans
Pour in two cans of diced tomatoes, two cans of red kidney beans (rinsed and drained), 1½ cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Mix well, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze any browned bits. - Simmer Slowly
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover partially and let simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken. - Adjust Consistency
For a thicker chili, continue simmering uncovered. Alternatively, stir in cornstarch slurry or serve as-is for a soupy consistency.
What to Serve With Turkey Chili
No chili experience is complete without some killer sides. Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, it pairs perfectly with the savory chili.
- Tortilla Chips: Crush them on top for added crunch.
- Rice: A bed of fluffy white or brown rice makes the dish go further.
- Salad: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette.
For drinks, consider serving cold lemonade, icy margaritas, or a glass of red wine for adults.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Turkey Chili
Ready to take your chili game to the next level? Follow these expert tips:
- Customize Spices: Experiment with different types of chili powder or add chipotle powder for smokiness.
- Prep Ahead: Chop veggies ahead of time to save time during cooking.
- Store Smartly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze portions for up to three months.
- Reheat Properly: Gently reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures your chili stays fresh and flavorful. Here’s what you need to know:
- Refrigeration: Cool the chili completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should last three to four days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Divide the chili into individual servings and freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date for easy reference.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently. Add broth or water if the chili seems too thick after refrigeration.
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Turkey Chili
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Description
A comforting one-pot meal featuring ground turkey, kidney beans, and a fragrant blend of spices. Perfect for meal prep or game-day feasting!
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground turkey
3 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp black pepper
2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cans (15.5 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1½ cups chicken broth
1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
-
Sauté Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes. -
Cook Ground Turkey
Increase the heat slightly if needed, then add 1 pound of ground turkey to the pot. Use the back of a spoon to break the meat into small chunks as it cooks. Continue cooking until the turkey is no longer pink and is fully browned, approximately 5–7 minutes. -
Add Spices
Stir in 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toast the spices for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. -
Combine Ingredients
Pour in two 14.5-ounce cans of diced tomatoes (undrained), two 15.5-ounce cans of red kidney beans (rinsed and drained), 1½ cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Mix everything together thoroughly, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. -
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover partially and let the chili simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. -
Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions. Enjoy immediately while hot!
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 1 Hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 409 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 36 g
