Skillet Turkey Chili
A hearty, flavorful skillet chili combining tender turkey, smoky bacon, and spicy tomatoes, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for family or friends. Bold flavors with a comforting touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp.
- Remove and drain the skillet.
- Add chopped onion and crushed garlic to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Add cooked turkey and chili powder; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Mexican-style stewed tomatoes and bring to a boil.
- Stir in bacon pieces and beans.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 or more minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or cumin alongside the chili powder. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or omit it entirely. You can also replace the kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas, depending on your preference. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for spiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skillet turkey chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with Ham And Swiss Dinner Rolls for a hearty meal. For a fresh contrast, consider a side salad or some tortilla chips. This dish also makes a great filling for burritos or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. If the chili thickens, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Turkey Chili contains roughly 888 calories, with 26g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1472mg per serving (64% 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 use fresh turkey instead of cooked turkey?
Yes, you can use fresh turkey, but you'll need to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the chili. Dice it into bite-sized pieces and sauté it until fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This skillet turkey chili is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it out for the week. Just store it in individual containers and reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and turkey. You can add more beans or include chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for heartiness. Adjust the spices to enhance the flavor without the meat.
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).