Name: Turkey Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (optional); 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey chili is easy to make, incredibly filling, and ideal for feeding a crowd or storing as leftovers. It’s lower in fat than traditional chili but still rich in taste and texture. It’s also highly customizable—whether you like it spicy, smoky, chunky, or loaded with toppings. Plus, it all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground turkey
Olive oil
Onion (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Bell peppers (chopped)
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Chicken or vegetable broth
Canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
Corn (optional)
Chili powder
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Oregano
Salt and pepper
Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (optional, for heat)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine.
Add beans and corn (if using). Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust seasoning and spice level as desired.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy chili: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or extra red pepper flakes.
Chunky version: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
No-bean option: Omit beans for a low-carb version.
Slow cooker: Brown turkey and sauté vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Vegetarian version: Replace turkey with lentils, quinoa, or extra beans.
Kid-friendly: Use mild chili powder and skip the hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store turkey chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and works just as well in this recipe.

What kind of beans are best for turkey chili?

Kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans all work well. Use your favorite or a mix.

How can I thicken my chili?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or mash some beans into the chili for natural thickening.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, turkey chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It’s perfect for meal prep.

Is this chili spicy?

It has mild heat by default, but you can adjust it by adding or omitting spicy ingredients.

What toppings go well with turkey chili?

Try shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, tortilla chips, or jalapeños.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function to brown the turkey and veggies, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and quick release.

What’s the best type of turkey to use?

Lean ground turkey (93/7) offers the best balance of flavor and texture without being too dry.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily—just use a large enough pot or slow cooker.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Absolutely. Portion it into freezer containers, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Turkey Chili is a warm, satisfying, and wholesome meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, or stocking your freezer, this easy one-pot recipe checks all the boxes. Top it your way and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort that’s sure to become a go-to favorite.

Turkey Chili