Print

Healthy Turkey Chili Recipe

4.6 from 59 reviews

This Healthy Turkey Chili is a flavorful and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food, using lean ground turkey and a colorful mix of vegetables and spices to create a hearty, low-fat meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and a blend of bold seasonings, this chili is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that warms you up without the guilt.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 lbs lean ground turkey
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 jalapeños, chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

Canned Goods and Liquids

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup low sodium beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Texas Pete recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 packet Stevia

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering to prepare for sautéing.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and jalapeños to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
  3. Add garlic and cook: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, enhancing the aromatic base.
  4. Brown the turkey: Add the 2 lbs of lean ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
  5. Add canned ingredients and broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1 cup of low sodium beef broth. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Season the chili: Add the chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and the packet of Stevia. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the chili.
  7. Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, allowing flavors to meld and chili to thicken.
  8. Add beans: Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat through and combine flavors fully.
  9. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve the chili hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, add more jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
  • To make this chili gluten-free, ensure all canned goods and spices are labeled gluten-free.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with whole grain bread or over brown rice for a complete meal.

Keywords: Healthy turkey chili, lean turkey recipe, low fat chili, ground turkey chili, hearty chili recipe, easy chili, dinner recipe, healthy comfort food