Ground Turkey Chili With Beans

Name: Ground Turkey Chili With Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions

Highlighted under: Soulful Meals

When I first experimented with Ground Turkey Chili With Beans, I was looking for a comforting meal that didn’t compromise on flavor. The surprising combination of lean turkey and hearty beans immediately captivated my taste buds. As I slowly simmered the spices and ingredients, the aroma filled my kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory goodness and a hint of spice, perfect for cozy nights or meal prep for the week ahead. I promise, this chili is a satisfying dish that you’ll want to keep on repeat!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T06:17:34.853Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and creating this Ground Turkey Chili was an adventure that taught me the value of layering flavors. By starting with sautéing onions and garlic, I laid a robust foundation before adding in the turkey, which I seasoned generously. It’s amazing how the right spices can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary!

One of the best tips I’ve learned over the years is to let the chili simmer for a bit after everything is combined. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving depth to your dish. When I serve this chili, there's nothing like seeing friends and family enjoy it — the smiles say it all!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lean turkey for a healthier twist on chili
Rich and hearty flavor packed with spices
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Perfecting the Chili Texture

Achieving the ideal chili texture is vital for the ultimate comfort food experience. As the mixture simmers for 20 minutes, the liquid will reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it; if it seems too watery, let it simmer a bit longer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, particularly after the addition of beans and tomatoes, which can contribute to a thicker consistency.

To enhance the chili’s mouthfeel, ensure that the ground turkey is cooked thoroughly and crumbled well. Aim for small, bite-sized pieces—this will help integrate the turkey seamlessly with the beans and spices. If you prefer a heartier chili, you could opt to add an additional can of beans or even corn for added texture.

Versatile Ingredient Substitutions

One of the beauties of chili is its adaptability. If you're in need of a quick substitution, ground turkey can easily be replaced with lean ground beef or even lentils for a plant-based option. This keeps the recipe both delicious and accommodating for various dietary preferences. Additionally, if you only have one type of beans or tomatoes on hand, feel free to adjust according to what you have; just remember to maintain the same overall volume.

For those looking to add extra flavor dimensions, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or even jalapeños for heat. These can be sautéed alongside the onions and garlic in the first step. Alternatively, if you're cooking for kids or prefer milder flavors, cutting back on chili powder can still yield a deliciously seasoned dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Ground Turkey Chili:

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).

Brown the Turkey

Add ground turkey to the pot, cooking until browned and no longer pink (about 7-8 minutes). Break it up as it cooks.

Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything well.

Season and Simmer

Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.

Serve

Once the chili has thickened, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite optional toppings.

Enjoy your homemade chili!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper when cooking the turkey. For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer without the lid.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Ground Turkey Chili is an excellent candidate for meal prep! It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container, allowing flavors to deepen over time. Just make sure to cool the chili completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors and affect texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to label them with the date; they can be enjoyed for up to 3 months! When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your chili, think beyond the bowl! This recipe pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. If you're feeling adventurous, try it as a topping on baked potatoes for a comforting twist.

Don't forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or sliced green onions can elevate your chili experience. For a touch of freshness, add a handful of chopped cilantro right before serving. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors can transform your bowl into a personalized masterpiece!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the turkey and sauté the onions in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with chili?

Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also enjoy it on its own!