Turkey chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms you up on chilly days. It combines lean ground turkey with a mix of spices, beans, and tomatoes. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthier twist on traditional chili. By using turkey instead of beef, you cut down on fat while still enjoying a filling meal.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to love turkey chili. First, it’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients that you might already have at home. Second, turkey is a leaner meat option, making this chili a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. Lastly, it’s a versatile dish; you can serve it up on its own or pair it with your favorite toppings like cheese and sour cream. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
How to make Turkey Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 pounds ground turkey
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chopped onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 Tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 20 ounces Rotel Original diced tomatoes & green chilies
- 16 ounces tomato sauce
- 16 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- Shredded Colby jack or cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
- Tortilla chips to serve on the side
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Sprinkle in the flour, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and oregano, mixing well.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and black beans; stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on top, alongside tortilla chips.
How to serve Turkey Chili
Turkey chili is best served hot. Ladle it into bowls and top it with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle some chopped green onions or chives for added flavor. You can serve it alongside tortilla chips for a nice crunch. It also pairs well with cornbread or rice for a heartier meal.
How to store Turkey Chili
To store leftover turkey chili, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Place the cooled chili in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for about 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to make Turkey Chili
- For added heat, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili.
- You can customize the beans; try using kidney or pinto beans if you prefer.
- To enhance the flavor, let the chili simmer longer on low heat; it will deepen in taste.
- If you like a thicker chili, add more flour or let it cook uncovered for a while.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground turkey with a mix of lentils and mushrooms. You can also use different types of beans to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor, but keep in mind that it will be higher in fat.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the turkey and onion first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is turkey chili healthy?
Turkey chili is a healthier option compared to beef chili due to lean protein and added beans and vegetables, making it nutritious and filling.
Turkey Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 pounds ground turkey Lean meat option for lower fat content.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 1.5 cups chopped onion Adds flavor and texture.
- 2 cloves minced garlic Enhances the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For thickening the chili.
- 3 tablespoons chili powder Provides heat and depth.
- 2 teaspoons cumin Adds an earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt For seasoning.
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground pepper For seasoning.
- 0.25 teaspoon dried oregano For added flavor.
- 20 ounces Rotel Original diced tomatoes & green chilies Key ingredient for the chili base.
- 16 ounces tomato sauce Enhances the chili consistency.
- 16 ounces black beans Drained and rinsed.
Toppings
- Shredded Colby jack or cheddar cheese For serving.
- Sour cream For serving.
- Chopped green onions or chives For garnish.
- Tortilla chips To serve on the side.
Instructions
Cooking Process
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Sprinkle in the flour, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and oregano, mixing well.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and black beans; stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on top, alongside tortilla chips.