If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and downright cozy meal, this Ground Turkey Chili Recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite! It’s brimming with lean ground turkey, two kinds of beans, colorful bell peppers, and a medley of spices that work together to create an absolutely irresistible bowl of comfort. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this chili delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and comes together in under an hour. Get ready to dig in and discover why this is one of my most-requested dishes—trust me, you’ll want to make extra!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Ground Turkey Chili Recipe plays an important role, from the robust beans to the aromatic spices. These pantry staples and fresh picks come together effortlessly, creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this chili truly special.
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the vegetables for maximum flavor.
- Ground turkey: Lean, protein-packed, and absorbs all those wonderful spices beautifully.
- Onion (chopped): Brings sweetness and depth to the chili base.
- Garlic (minced): Offers that unmistakable savory kick we all love in chili.
- Bell pepper (chopped): Adds color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness.
- Black beans (drained and rinsed): Provide a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- Kidney beans (drained and rinsed): Bring heartiness and beautiful color contrast.
- Diced tomatoes with juice: Add tang, moisture, and a vibrant tomato base.
- Tomato sauce: Thickens the chili and deepens the tomato flavor.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the richness and gives body to the sauce.
- Chili powder: Delivers classic chili warmth and a gentle kick.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a smoky undertone.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky flavor that elevates every bite.
- Dried oregano: Lends a Mediterranean touch and herby freshness.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Adds a light, peppery heat.
- Chicken broth or water: Loosens the chili just enough for the perfect consistency.
How to Make Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. This simple step builds the savory backbone of your chili, and you’ll notice the kitchen starting to smell amazing already!
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it—just long enough to release its delicious aroma without burning. This is where the flavor really starts to deepen.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, making sure it’s evenly crumbled so every bite has a bit of turkey. This step is crucial for building flavor and texture in the Ground Turkey Chili Recipe.
Step 4: Season Everything
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and veggies in all those wonderful spices. This is the secret to a deeply flavorful chili—let the spices toast briefly for an extra boost.
Step 5: Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste, mixing until it’s fully incorporated and coats the turkey and vegetables. This helps deepen the tomato flavor and gives your chili a rich, velvety base.
Step 6: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, chicken broth or water, black beans, and kidney beans. Give everything a big stir, making sure all the ingredients are evenly combined. The beans bring creaminess and heartiness, while the tomatoes add tang and moisture.
Step 7: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and let those flavors meld together—the sauce will thicken, the beans will soak up the spices, and your whole kitchen will be filled with the most comforting aroma.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give the chili a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like it spicier. Then, ladle the Ground Turkey Chili Recipe into bowls and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The right toppings can transform your bowl from tasty to unforgettable! I love to offer shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You can also add sliced jalapeños for heat or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Let everyone customize their chili for a truly personal touch.
Side Dishes
This Ground Turkey Chili Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but it’s even better with a few simple sides. Classic cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad all pair beautifully. If you want a cozy meal, serve it with a warm baked potato or steamed rice to soak up every drop of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve chili in bread bowls for a fun twist, or use it as a topping for baked sweet potatoes. It’s also fantastic spooned over nachos, inside a burrito, or even as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. The possibilities with this Ground Turkey Chili Recipe are practically endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of my favorite things about chili is how well it keeps. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors develop even more overnight, so your next-day lunch might be even tastier than dinner!
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space for expansion. You can freeze the Ground Turkey Chili Recipe for up to three months—perfect for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheating is a breeze: simply warm your chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For a quick single serving, the microwave works well, too. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño with the bell pepper or sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices. You can also offer hot sauce at the table for those who like to dial up the spice.
Is this Ground Turkey Chili Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your canned goods and spices for hidden gluten. It’s a wonderful option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Definitely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef both work well in this recipe. Just swap the turkey for your protein of choice and follow the same instructions.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
It’s easy to make this chili vegetarian—just skip the turkey and add an extra can of beans or some diced mushrooms for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.
Can I make Ground Turkey Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the veggies and turkey as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours for an effortless, hands-off meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a soul-satisfying meal that’s easy, healthy, and loaded with flavor, this Ground Turkey Chili Recipe is a must-try. I can’t wait for you to experience how delicious and versatile it is—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new staple in your kitchen, too!
Print
Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This flavorful Ground Turkey Chili is a healthy and hearty dish perfect for any meal. Made with lean ground turkey, beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a delicious, gluten-free, and dairy-free chili option that is both easy to prepare and satisfying. This recipe simmers tender vegetables and protein-rich ingredients to create a comforting bowl of chili that can be enjoyed immediately or saved for later.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Spices and Liquids
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they become softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant to enhance the flavor base.
- Cook ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, which takes about 6–8 minutes.
- Season meat and veggies: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add tomato paste: Incorporate the tomato paste and stir well to combine, intensifying the rich tomato flavor throughout the chili.
- Add remaining ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, chicken broth (or water), black beans, and kidney beans. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Simmer chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.
- This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- It freezes well for up to 3 months, making meal prep easy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
