Turkey chili is a rich, protein-packed dish that delivers bold flavors with a lighter twist. Made with lean ground turkey, hearty beans, tomatoes, and a blend of smoky spices, this chili is thick, satisfying, and loaded with flavor.
Unlike traditional beef chili, this version keeps things leaner but just as hearty, making it a great option for a balanced meal. Whether served on its own, over rice, or topped with shredded cheese, it’s a go-to comfort dish that’s both nutritious and filling.
Why This Turkey Chili Stands Out
This recipe brings big flavor with simple ingredients, making it an ideal dish for any night of the week.
- Lean but hearty – Ground turkey keeps it lighter while still feeling indulgent.
- Smoky and well-seasoned – Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give it deep flavor.
- Perfectly thick and rich – Slow simmering allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
- Loaded with fiber and protein – Beans and tomatoes make it both nourishing and satisfying.
- Great for meal prep – Freezes and reheats well, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
This chili is a one-pot wonder that delivers the warmth and depth of classic chili without being overly heavy.
Key Ingredients That Make This Chili So Good
Each ingredient plays a role in building depth, texture, and flavor in every bite.
- Ground Turkey – A lean but hearty base that absorbs the rich chili flavors.
- Onions & Garlic – Essential aromatics that add depth and warmth.
- Tomatoes – A mix of diced tomatoes and tomato paste provides a thick, slightly tangy base.
- Beans – Black beans and kidney beans add texture, fiber, and protein.
- Chili Powder & Smoked Paprika – Deliver a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Cumin & Oregano – Enhance the warmth and earthiness of the chili.
- Chicken Broth – Helps blend all the flavors into a thick, savory sauce.
These ingredients work together to create a bold and satisfying chili with layers of flavor.
How to Cook This Turkey Chili
This chili comes together in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up.
- Brown the Turkey for Maximum Flavor – Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks until browned.
- Sauté the Aromatics for Depth – Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Build the Base with Tomatoes and Spices – Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer with Beans and Broth – Pour in chicken broth and add black beans and kidney beans. Let the chili simmer, allowing flavors to develop.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve – Taste and adjust salt and spice levels. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
This slow-simmered process ensures deep, well-balanced flavors in every bowl.
Ways to Customize Your Chili
This chili is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust it to your taste.
- Prefer a thicker chili? Reduce the broth or mash some of the beans for a thicker consistency.
- Looking for extra heat? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
- Want a smoky boost? Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes or chipotle peppers.
- Need a low-carb option? Skip the beans and add bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Want extra protein? Add cooked quinoa or lentils for a plant-based protein boost.
This recipe adapts easily, so you can make it exactly the way you like.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Chili
Pairing this chili with the right sides creates a complete and satisfying meal.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cornbread | A slightly sweet contrast to the smoky, savory chili. |
| Tortilla Chips | Adds a crunchy texture for dipping. |
| Baked Sweet Potatoes | A naturally sweet and creamy pairing. |
| Steamed Rice | Absorbs the bold, spicy flavors of the chili. |
| Avocado Slices | Brings a cool, buttery contrast to the heat. |
These pairings enhance the overall balance of textures and flavors in the meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Chili
To get the most out of your chili, follow these expert tips:
- Brown the turkey well – This builds deep, meaty flavor.
- Toast the spices – Cooking them for a minute enhances their aroma and intensity.
- Let it simmer – The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop.
- Taste and adjust seasoning – Add salt and spice as needed for balance.
- Store overnight for better flavor – Chili always tastes better the next day.
These small adjustments make a big difference in creating the richest, most flavorful chili.
Turkey Chili
Equipment
- Large pot For simmering the chili
- Wooden Spoon For stirring and mixing ingredients
- Ladle For serving the chili
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey lean, 93% preferred
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add black beans and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans while simmering.
- Add jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.