Looking for the 10 best turkey chili recipes ever? You've hit the jackpot! These delicious bowls are packed with flavors that'll make your taste buds dance. Try the classic turkey chili for a hearty meal, or spice it up with a Southwest twist! If you're feeling healthy, the turkey white bean chili is a champ. Don't forget the smoky chipotle version or the sweet potato chili for extra yum. And for some fun, throw in some pumpkin or go Mediterranean with chickpeas. Your family will be begging for seconds, and there's so much more to investigate!
Main Points
- Explore diverse turkey chili recipes including Classic, Spicy Southwest, and Turkey White Bean for various flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.
- Customize spice levels in your turkey chili by adjusting cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce to cater to personal preferences.
- Enhance flavor by incorporating ingredients like chipotle peppers, fresh herbs, or even white wine for depth and richness in your chili.
- Enjoy versatile toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado, and pair your chili with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Most turkey chili recipes refrigerate well for up to 4 days, making them ideal for meal prep or freezing for future dinners.
Classic Turkey Chili
Turkey chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili. Made with lean ground turkey, it's packed with protein while still providing all the rich flavors and spices you expect from a warm bowl of chili. This classic turkey chili recipe combines beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices to create a comforting meal that's perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings.
The beauty of this turkey chili lies in its flexibility; you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, you can increase or decrease the chili powder and jalapeños accordingly. This recipe also works great in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Let's plunge into this easy and delicious classic turkey chili recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
To prepare the chili, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot, crumbling it as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through. Once the turkey is ready, incorporate the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the mixture, stirring well to combine.
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
When making turkey chili, keep in mind that cooking time can be adjusted based on how thick or soupy you like your chili. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different beans, vegetables, or even add some corn for sweetness.
Serve with toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy your healthy, homemade classic turkey chili!
Spicy Southwest Turkey Chili
Spicy Southwest Turkey Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the bold flavors of the Southwest in a healthy, comforting bowl. This chili is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Using ground turkey as a lean protein option, combined with an array of spices, beans, and vegetables, this chili is both nutritious and satisfying. The result is a crowd-pleaser that even those who aren't typically chili fans will enjoy.
The spices in this dish really enhance the flavor profile, adding just the right amount of heat to warm you up. Pair this chili with some cornbread, tortilla chips, or a topping of fresh avocado to complete your meal. The prep is quick, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings, while the slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once you try this spicy southwest creation, it might just become a regular on your dinner rotation!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned.
Once the turkey is cooked, add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine. Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn, mixing everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
When cooking Spicy Southwest Turkey Chili, feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences; adding additional cayenne or a splash of hot sauce can ramp up the heat if desired.
Also, consider letting the chili sit for a day before serving; like many stews, it often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to develop. Finally, don't hesitate to experiment with additional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture!
Turkey White Bean Chili
Turkey White Bean Chili is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic chili recipe that features ground turkey and tender white beans. This dish combines a medley of spices, fresh vegetables, and protein-packed ingredients, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty meal prep option. The subtle creaminess of the white beans perfectly complements the lean turkey, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and light on calories.
This chili isn't only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste preferences or adding in extra vegetables. Whether you serve it on its own, over rice, or with a side of cornbread, Turkey White Bean Chili guarantees to please a crowd and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they're soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey is no longer pink. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Then, add the diced tomatoes, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is melded and heated through.
For a successful Turkey White Bean Chili experience, keep a few things in mind: feel free to adjust the spices to your liking; you can add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat. If you're looking for a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a while longer to reduce the liquids.
This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep—simply store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Serve it with your choice of toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese, for an extra touch of flavor.
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili is a delightful twist on the traditional chili that brings a subtle heat and a rich, smoky flavor to the dish. This recipe combines ground turkey, which is leaner than beef, with a variety of spices to create a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for cool evenings or football parties.
The addition of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce gives this chili its signature smoky flavor, while black beans and tomatoes provide essential texture and nutrition.
Cooking smoky chipotle turkey chili isn't just simple, it's also versatile. You can modify the heat level by adjusting the number of chipotle peppers and using mild or hot chili powder based on your preferences. This chili also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor, and don't forget some crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side for dipping.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Once the turkey is done, mix in the chili powder, smoked paprika, minced chipotle peppers, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
Stir well to combine, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
When cooking smoky chipotle turkey chili, feel free to customize the beans used; kidney or pinto beans are excellent alternatives. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot and stir them in.
For an authentic smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for future meals. Enjoy your chili with your favorite sides!
Turkey Chili With Sweet Potatoes
Turkey chili with sweet potatoes is a hearty and nutritious dish that blends the rich flavors of turkey and spices with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family, offering a comforting bowl of chili that can warm anyone's soul.
Sweet potatoes not only add a deliciously sweet and creamy texture but also enrich the dish with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthier option compared to traditional chili recipes.
This turkey chili is versatile and can easily be customized according to your taste preferences. You can adjust the spices to create a milder or spicier chili, add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even incorporate beans for added protein and texture.
As the chili simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering dish that's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Then, add the ground turkey to the pot, cooking until it's browned. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes (with their juice), black beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
For the best flavor, allow your turkey chili to sit for a while after cooking; it often tastes even better the next day as the ingredients continue to meld.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage. To elevate your chili, consider topping it with some shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish!
Tex-Mex Turkey Chili
Tex-Mex Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the best of Tex-Mex cuisine into a comforting bowl of chili. This recipe isn't only packed with protein thanks to the ground turkey, but it also incorporates a range of spices, beans, and vegetables that create a rich and satisfying meal.
Whether you're cooking for a crowd or simply seeking leftovers for the week, this turkey chili can easily be modified to suit your taste and dietary needs. Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or simply on its own for a delicious weeknight dinner.
This chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili recipes, combining the spiciness of Tex-Mex flavors with the lean goodness of turkey. The combination of fresh ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and garlic gives each bite a punch of flavor, while the beans add heartiness.
Customize your chili by adjusting the spice levels or adding in other veggies like zucchini or corn. This dish is sure to warm you up and is perfect for game days or cozy family meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado
To make the Tex-Mex Turkey Chili, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 4-5 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute, then add the ground turkey. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and fully cooked.
Next, add in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer, allowing the chili to cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
When preparing your Tex-Mex Turkey Chili, consider letting it simmer longer to develop deeper flavors—up to an hour if you have the time. Additionally, this chili freezes wonderfully, so you can store leftovers for a quick meal later on.
If you're looking for extra heat, add in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Don't hesitate to personalize the recipe by introducing other beans or veggies you enjoy. Enjoy this delicious, nutritious dish alone or with your favorite accompaniments!
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Slow cooker turkey chili is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends. This recipe combines ground turkey with a medley of spices, beans, and vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. The slow cooker method guarantees that the turkey stays moist and tender, making every bite delicious and satisfying.
One of the greatest advantages of making turkey chili in a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. Simply toss in the ingredients in the morning and let your slow cooker do all the work. The aromatic blend of spices fills your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it hard to resist the final dish.
Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak in some veggies and maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup chicken broth
To prepare the slow cooker turkey chili, start by browning the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the cooked turkey to the slow cooker.
Next, add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to mix well.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the flavors have melded and the vegetables are tender.
For the best flavor, consider letting your chili sit in the slow cooker for an additional hour after cooking time is complete. This allows the spices to deepen and intensify, resulting in an even more robust taste.
You can also customize the heat level of your chili by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce to individual servings. Serve your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, and enjoy the delicious balance of flavors that a slow cooker brings to this warm dish!
Quinoa and Turkey Chili
Quinoa and Turkey Chili is a hearty and nutritious twist on traditional chili that brings together lean ground turkey, protein-packed quinoa, and a medley of fresh vegetables. This dish isn't only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
The quinoa adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor, while the spices and vegetables create a rich and satisfying chili base. As you simmer everything together, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting and filling meal that's perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family.
Serve it with cornbread or over a bed of rice, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. This nutritious chili is also highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite beans or vegetables to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Stir in the quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the chili has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
Extra Tips: To improve the flavor of your quinoa and turkey chili, consider browning the turkey with some spices before adding the vegetables. This will raise the overall taste of the dish.
Additionally, feel free to top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado to add creaminess and richness. For a spicier kick, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Enjoy customizing this dish to suit your taste preferences!
Turkey Chili With Pumpkin
Turkey chili with pumpkin is a hearty and delicious dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Combining lean ground turkey with the seasonal flavors of pumpkin, this twist on traditional chili isn't only healthy but also bursting with flavor. The smoothness of the pumpkin purée adds natural sweetness and a unique texture, while spices improve the comprehensive taste, creating a culinary experience that's perfect for chilly evenings.
This dish is versatile and can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an inviting meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting a game day gathering, this turkey chili with pumpkin is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro
To prepare the turkey chili with pumpkin, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, incorporate the ground turkey into the pot, cooking until it's no longer pink. Stir in the pumpkin purée, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well, bring the chili to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
For a successful turkey chili with pumpkin, consider using fresh pumpkin instead of canned for a more authentic flavor; just be sure to roast it and purée it before adding it to the pot. Additionally, feel free to customize the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
This chili can also be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for a quick meal later.
Mediterranean Turkey Chili
Mediterranean Turkey Chili is a delightful twist on the classic chili, infusing the rich and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into a hearty dish that's both nourishing and satisfying. By using ground turkey as the base, this recipe offers a lean protein option while still being incredibly flavorful. Featuring ingredients such as chickpeas, olives, sundried tomatoes, and a balance of Mediterranean spices, this turkey chili is a unique blend that will tantalize your taste buds.
Cooking this Mediterranean-inspired chili is quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a social gathering with friends. The process involves sautéing aromatic vegetables and seasoning them to build a flavor base, followed by adding the turkey, spices, and other essential ingredients. After simmering, the dish comes together beautifully, showcasing vibrant colors and robust flavors that will impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced (Kalamata or green)
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, then sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in the ground turkey and cook until it's browned.
Next, add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, olives, sundried tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the chili thickens. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
For an even more flavorful dish, consider browning the turkey with a splash of white wine before adding the other ingredients; this adds depth to the chili. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt, for an invigorating touch.
Additionally, if you're looking to meal prep, this chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, or you can freeze it for future meals—just be sure to cool it completely before sealing it in air-tight containers. Enjoy your Mediterranean Turkey Chili!