If you’re searching for a hearty, soul-pleasing meal that’s big on flavor and easy on effort, you have to try this Turkey Chili. This bowl is loaded with lean ground turkey, colorful veggies, and two kinds of beans, all simmered together in a robust tomato base that’s downright irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or meal prep sessions, it’s a cozy, protein-packed classic that effortlessly fits into many diets—without skimping on the familiar, deeply satisfying chili taste we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Turkey Chili comes together with familiar, simple ingredients — each one playing a key role in the chili’s bold taste, hearty texture, and beautiful pop of color. Here’s exactly what you’ll need, along with some tips to make every ingredient shine.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for browning the turkey and veggies, adding a subtle richness to the chili.
- Lean ground turkey: Keeps the dish light and healthy while delivering plenty of satisfying protein.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens and melds into the chili.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and a little punch; use fresh for best results.
- Red bell pepper: Offers a hint of sweetness and a pop of color that makes every bowl inviting.
- Black beans: Give a creamy, earthy bite and boost the fiber content.
- Kidney beans: Their firm texture stands up well to simmering and soaks in all those chili spices.
- Crushed tomatoes: Create a thick, robust base with rich tomato flavor.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the chili’s savory, umami foundation.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds just the right amount of body and helps all the flavors meld as it simmers.
- Chili powder: Lays down the signature smoky, spicy notes expected of any good chili.
- Ground cumin: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness that makes this Turkey Chili truly memorable.
- Dried oregano: Brings an herbal, slightly peppery note that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt: Brightens and balances every bite; adjust to suit your taste.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and complexity to the chili.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and avocado all make wonderful finishing touches—get creative!
How to Make Turkey Chili
Step 1: Brown the Turkey
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon as it sizzles, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This is a quick five to six minute process that creates the savory foundation for your Turkey Chili.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
To the cooked turkey, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Let these soften together for about four to five minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a mouthwatering aroma—the kind that has everyone asking what’s for dinner!
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for one minute. This step is small but mighty, as it deepens the chili’s savory flavor. Don’t skip it—the tomato paste really makes a difference in richness!
Step 4: Add Beans, Tomatoes & Seasonings
Pour in the drained black beans and kidney beans, followed by crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and all your spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so everything is evenly mixed and the seasonings are distributed throughout your Turkey Chili.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Increase the heat just to bring the chili to a boil, then turn it down and let it gently simmer, uncovered. Let it cook for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring now and then. This is when the flavors get cozy and meld together, making the chili thick, hearty, and utterly delicious.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
Give your Turkey Chili a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe an extra pinch of salt or black pepper, depending on your preference. Ladle into bowls while hot and serve with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Turkey Chili

Garnishes
Toppings really let you put your own spin on each bowl of Turkey Chili. Try a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese for melty richness, a dollop of sour cream for tangy coolness, sliced green onions for crunch, or creamy chunks of avocado for an extra layer of comfort. The contrast of temperatures and textures makes every spoonful that much more exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Turkey Chili with a warm, crusty piece of bread, classic cornbread, or fluffy steamed rice. All are perfect for soaking up the irresistible chili sauce. A tossed green salad on the side adds freshness and a balancing crunch, while tortilla chips bring a salty, dippable element to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun, try serving Turkey Chili in baked bell pepper bowls or over roasted sweet potatoes for a twist on tradition. It’s also fantastic spooned over hot baked potatoes or even as a topping for nachos. These playful presentations are perfect for parties or family nights, and they’re guaranteed conversation starters!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the chili cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen and taste even better the next day!
Freezing
Turkey Chili is a freezer superstar. Cool the chili completely, ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and store for up to three months. It’s ideal for those nights when you want a homemade meal without any effort—just thaw and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring every minute or so, until hot. If the chili thickens up too much in storage, just add a splash of broth or water to get it back to your perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this Turkey Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the turkey and sauté the veggies in a skillet first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for about 3 to 4 hours for equally delicious results.
How can I make this chili spicier?
Spice lovers can add a diced jalapeño (with seeds for extra heat) alongside the bell pepper, or toss in a pinch or two of cayenne pepper with the seasonings. Adjust to your preferred level of heat!
What other beans can I use?
Feel free to swap in pinto beans or cannellini beans if that’s what you have on hand. The recipe is flexible, and any hearty bean can cozily join the pot with the turkey and tomatoes.
Is Turkey Chili gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, this Turkey Chili is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as written. Just be sure to double-check the labels on your chicken broth and bean cans for hidden gluten if sensitivity is a concern.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Turkey Chili is perfect for feeding a group. Simply double all the ingredients, use a big enough pot, and add a bit more time to the simmer to ensure everything is heated through and the flavors are blended.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavor without a big fuss, this Turkey Chili has you covered. I hope you give it a try soon—it’s the kind of satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that might just become a regular star at your table!
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Turkey Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with lean ground turkey, beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a comforting meal that comes together easily in one pot. Top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a satisfying bowl of chili.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly. Add beans, crushed tomatoes, broth, spices, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30–35 minutes. Adjust seasoning, if needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- For spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or jalapeño.
- This chili freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg