Easy Turkey Chili (That Actually Tastes Good)

This easy turkey chili recipe is a healthy one-pot meal made with ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and homemade chili seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cold-weather meals, this hearty chili is packed with protein and bold flavor. Simple to make on the stovetop and customizable with classic toppings, it’s a great alternative to traditional beef chili.

Ingredients

Chili

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 shallot or small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Turkey Chili Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chili powder (mild or hot)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheese
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Diced avocado
• Fresh or pickled jalapeños
• Chopped cilantro
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Hot sauce

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Instructions

1. Make the seasoning:
   In a small bowl, mix all the turkey chili seasoning ingredients. Set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables:
   Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper, shallot (or onion), and jalapeños. Season with salt and pepper and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Brown the turkey:
   Add the ground turkey, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Simmer the chili:
   Stir in the black beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chiles, chicken broth, and prepared seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Serve:
   Spoon the turkey chili into bowls and top as desired.

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Tips

• Let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to deepen the flavor.
• Adjust heat by using more or fewer jalapeños or hot chili powder.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking while simmering.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• Use kidney beans instead of pinto beans if preferred.
• Add corn for a slightly sweet texture.
• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze turkey chili?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Is this chili spicy?
It’s mild to medium, depending on the chili powder and jalapeños used.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips.
• Spoon over baked potatoes or rice.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty, flavorful, and filling
• Made with lean protein and pantry staples
• Easy one-pot meal
• Great for meal prep and leftovers