This turkey chili is hearty and full of flavor! With ground turkey, beans, and tasty spices, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days!
Making this chili is super easy. Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: A lean option for chili, it’s perfect for keeping the dish lighter. If turkey isn’t available, you could substitute with ground chicken or even lean beef for more richness.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic for chili, but black beans or pinto beans can work well too. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try cauliflower instead!
Spices: Chili powder adds a deep flavor. If you need a substitute, paprika or a blend of cumin and garlic powder can provide a similar kick. Adjust the cayenne if you prefer milder heat!
Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all bring sweetness. If corn isn’t your thing, you can swap it with diced zucchini or bell pepper for added veggies.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Ground Turkey?
Getting that nice browning on your ground turkey is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it best:
- Make sure the pot is hot before adding the ground turkey. This prevents sticking and helps with browning.
- Break up the meat with a spoon easily. Let it sit in the pan for a moment before stirring again to develop those brown bits.
- Cooking at medium heat helps the turkey cook evenly without drying it out. Aim for about 6-8 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
Delicious Turkey Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
For Serving (Optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions
- Crusty bread or cornbread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey chili takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 45 minutes, you can have a delightful, hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma filling your kitchen.
3. Cook the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up while it cooks. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add Spices:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat), oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let the spices cook for about 1 minute.
5. Mix in the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth (or water), kidney beans, black beans (if using), and corn. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick! This helps thicken up the chili and meld all those lovely flavors.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. You want it to be just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chives or green onions. Don’t forget some crusty bread or cornbread to enjoy on the side!
Now, dig in and savor your rich and hearty turkey chili!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used if you prefer a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning, as beef tends to be fattier than turkey.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing some spices, you can still make the chili delicious. Use whatever spices you have on hand, like basic Italian seasoning, or just increase the chili powder to boost the flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, turkey chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Make This Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground turkey with more beans or lentils. You can also add extra vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, for additional texture and flavor!
