BEST Lean Turkey Chili
This lean turkey chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish packed with ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, smoky broth. It's a guilt-free comfort food that's perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. Customize it with your favorite garnishes for a chili masterpiece.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey 93% lean or leaner
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips, hot sauce
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it up with a spoon.
- Cook until the turkey is browned, making sure to crumble it well.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, corn, and chicken broth.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate all the spices.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Notes
For a richer, smokier flavor, add about 8 ounces of smoked sausage, diced, along with the ground turkey. For a touch of sweetness and added nutrients, add 1-2 cups of diced sweet potato to the chili along with the beans and tomatoes. A teaspoon or two of unsweetened cocoa powder can add a depth of flavor and richness to chili. A tablespoon of strong brewed coffee can enhance the chili's flavor. Stir in the zest of one lime just before serving for a bright, citrusy flavor. This chili can easily be made in a slow cooker. Brown the turkey as directed, then transfer all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Turkey chili freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.