Lite Turkey Chili
A flavorful and light turkey chili with tomatoes and beans, perfect for a healthy, hearty meal that suits busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, sauté ground turkey and minced onion until turkey is no longer pink.
- Add canned no-salt cut tomatoes, no-salt tomato paste, rinsed and drained beans, chili powder, and cumin.
- Stir and simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you want a heartier texture, substitute ground turkey with lean beef or use a mix of both. You can also use black beans instead of pinto or kidney beans for a different flavor. This recipe is a great base for variations like 'Lite' Chili with additional veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lite Turkey Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Migas Rancheras or can be enjoyed as a hearty filling for a Breakfast Burrito Tacito.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Turkey Chili contains roughly 644 calories, with 45g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (90% of the Daily Value), and calcium (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 731mg per serving (32% 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 chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or simply doubling the beans and adding more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition.
How can I thicken my chili?
To thicken your chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans in the chili or add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina to achieve a thicker consistency.
What can I serve with turkey chili?
Turkey chili is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with tortilla chips, a fresh green salad, or over baked potatoes. It's also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
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).