Hey y’all! Looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s both delicious and healthy? You’ve found it! This Healthy Ground Turkey Chili is perfect for game nights, family dinners, or when you just need a cozy bowl of goodness. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- This chili is packed with protein and low in fat, making it a nutritious choice.
- It’s incredibly flavorful with a delightful blend of spices.
- Perfect for meal prep, it tastes even better the next day!
- Quick and easy to make, it’s ready in just under an hour.
- Versatile enough to be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Season the Chili
Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Learn about chili spices here.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered in the last 10 minutes.
- Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavors. See why fresh produce matters.
Variations
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace turkey with extra beans or lentils.
- Spicy Turkey Chili: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sweet Potato Turkey Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
Required Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
Serve this Healthy Ground Turkey Chili with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side of cornbread. Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence!
Pro Tips
- Brown the turkey well to develop deeper flavors. Learn more about browning meat.
- Let the chili sit for a few minutes after cooking for even better flavor infusion.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to ensure balanced flavors.
FAQ
- Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
- Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute in this recipe.
- Is this chili gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, brown the turkey first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.