This healthy turkey chili is made with lean ground turkey, kidney beans, and corn, creating a protein-packed, fiber-rich, and flavorful dish. It’s perfectly spiced, easy to make, and ideal for weeknight dinners or game days. Plus, you can cook it on the stovetop or slow cooker for ultimate convenience.

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Why You’ll Love This Turkey Chili

• Healthy & Nutritious – Made with lean protein and fiber-rich beans
• Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and one-pot cooking
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, add veggies, or make it vegetarian

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound extra lean ground turkey or chicken (99% lean)
• 4 tablespoons chili powder (see notes for spice level adjustments)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1 (28 oz) can diced or crushed tomatoes
• 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
• 2 (15 oz) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, rinsed and drained

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheese
• Diced avocado
• Tortilla chips
• Fresh cilantro
• Sour cream

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

2. Cook the Turkey

• Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spoon.
• Cook until no longer pink.

3. Add the Spices

• Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt.
• Cook for 20 seconds to release the flavors.

4. Add Remaining Ingredients

• Pour in diced/crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, kidney beans, and corn.
• Stir well and bring to a boil.

5. Simmer & Thicken

• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty turkey chili with these delicious sides:

1. Cornbread – Sweet and soft, perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Garlic Bread – Adds a crispy, buttery texture.
3. Rice – A neutral base for a heartier meal.
4. Coleslaw – Provides a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweetness balances the spice.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Light and healthy addition.
7. Tortilla Chips and Guacamole – For dipping and extra flavor.
8. Cheese Quesadillas – A kid-friendly side.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Not Cooking the Spices

Toasting spices for 20 seconds before adding liquid enhances their flavor. Skipping this step can result in a less robust taste.

Using Too Much Liquid

Chili should be thick and hearty, not soupy. Simmer long enough to allow excess liquid to evaporate. If the chili is too thin, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Overcooking the Meat

Ground turkey can dry out quickly. Brown it just until no longer pink, then let it finish cooking in the chili as it simmers.

Forgetting Acid

A squeeze of lime juice or a splash of vinegar at the end brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the dish.

Skipping the Toppings

Toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or fresh cilantro enhance both the flavor and texture of the chili.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To Store

• Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.

To Freeze

• Place the cooled chili in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to three months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I Make This Chili in a Slow Cooker?

Yes. Reduce the chicken broth to ½ cup. Brown the turkey and onions first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on high for three to four hours or on low for six to seven hours.

How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?

Yes. Swap the turkey for lean ground beef for a richer flavor.

How Do I Make This Chili Vegetarian?

Replace the ground turkey with plant-based ground meat, or use extra beans and lentils for protein.

What Are the Best Beans for Chili?

Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans also work well.

Conclusion

This healthy turkey chili is a delicious, protein-packed, and comforting meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it delivers bold flavors and hearty textures. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl any day of the week.

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Turkey Chili

This healthy turkey chili is made with lean ground turkey, kidney beans, and corn for a flavorful, protein-packed, and fiber-rich meal. It’s perfectly spiced, easy to make, and ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or game day. Enjoy it on the stovetop or slow cooker for ultimate convenience!

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time35 minutes mins

Total Time45 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Calories: 336kcal

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
• 1 pound extra lean ground turkey or chicken 99% lean
• 4 tablespoons chili powder* see notes for adjustments
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste
• 1 28 oz can diced or crushed tomatoes
• 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
• 2 15 oz cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 15 oz can sweet corn, rinsed and drained

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheese
• Diced avocado
• Tortilla chips
• Fresh cilantro
• Sour cream

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
• Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink.
• Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for about 20 seconds to toast the spices.
• Add the diced or crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, kidney beans, and corn. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro, or sour cream.

Notes

Chili Powder: McCormick’s Chili Powder (used in this recipe) is mild. If using a spicier brand, reduce the amount to 2–3 tablespoons and adjust to taste.
Slow Cooker Instructions: Reduce the chicken broth to ½ cup. Brown the turkey and onions before adding all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–7 hours. Perfect for tailgating or football parties!