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Hearty Turkey Chili Recipe

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A simple, cozy turkey chili recipe perfect for winter, packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. Quick to prepare and great for sharing or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (lean)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 14 oz (400g) canned diced tomatoes (no added salt recommended)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (black beans as substitute)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Optional garnish: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat for about 5 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper; cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess liquid if released.
  5. Mix in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
  6. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth; stir well to combine.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, lower heat, cover partially, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add drained kidney beans and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes to thicken and let beans absorb flavors.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro.

Notes

Brown the turkey well to add depth of flavor and prevent blandness. Toast spices briefly to release essential oils. Drain excess liquid from turkey to keep chili thick. Simmer gently with partial lid to retain moisture but allow thickening. Let chili rest off heat for 10 minutes before serving to intensify flavors. For gluten-free, verify broth and spices. For dairy-free garnish, use avocado or lime instead of sour cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, hearty chili, winter comfort food, easy chili recipe, healthy chili, ground turkey recipe, cozy dinner

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/hearty-turkey-chili-recipe-easy-cozy-comfort-food-for-winter/