Best Ever Turkey Chili
A hearty and flavorful turkey chili with tomatoes, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large nonstick skillet, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring and breaking up the turkey as it cooks.
- Add chopped celery, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, and cumin. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the tomatoes.
- Add drained red kidney beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn. You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef or chicken if preferred. If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess. Pair it with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this turkey chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s also delicious with a side of chips for dipping. Explore other comforting dishes like Macaroni And Cheese With Piggies to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turkey chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Turkey Chili contains roughly 877 calories, with 50g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (130% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this turkey chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili is perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. Prepare it a day or two in advance, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop before serving for optimal taste.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or paprika. Alternatively, add diced fresh jalapeños for more heat. For a milder version, consider omitting the chili powder entirely or using a mild variety. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
What can I serve with turkey chili?
Turkey chili is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Try serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For added texture, top it with avocado slices or shredded cheese. It also works great as a filling for tacos or burritos, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).