This Healthy Turkey Chili recipe is easy to make in 30 minutes on the stovetop. Turkey chili is loaded with protein and veggies and bursting with flavor thanks to a homemade spice mixture. A nutritious and cozy fall meal.
Chili is one of our favorite fall and winter meals. We love beef chili, chicken chili, and of course I had to share our Turkey Chili Recipe with you!
This turkey chili is a healthy alternative to regular chili. It’s loaded with nutrient-dense veggies, protein-packed lean ground turkey and a homemade spice blend that’s flavorful and delicious. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese for a cozy fall dinner!
Turkey Chili Recipe: Ingredients & Substitutions
One of the great things about this healthy chili recipe is that it’s very customizable! Here are some notes about the ingredients and possible substitutions!
- Ground turkey. The main ingredient in this turkey chili recipe. You can substitute ground chicken if necessary.
- Minced garlic. Garlic powder can be used in place of minced garlic, just add it with the spice blend.
- Bell peppers. any color variety of bell pepper works well in this recipe. If you like to add some heat, add some spicier peppers.
- Spice mixture. I have written this recipe with the spice ratios and combination that we love the most. If you change it I cannot guarantee the results. The one thing I will say is that you can add more chili powder, or some cayenne powder to increase the heat if you wish (we like mild chili).
- Fire roasted tomatoes. I love the flavor that the fire roasted tomatoes adds to this easy turkey chili. You can substitute regular canned, diced tomatoes.
- Kidney Beans. I use one can of kidney beans because my husband does not prefer beans, so I don’t like to make our chili too “beany.” However you can add another can (2 cans total) if you love beans. You can also use any type of beans you like. My other favorites are black beans, great northern (white) beans, and garbanzo beans (chickpeas)!
- Tomato sauce. I always have canned tomato sauce on hand (to make homemade pizza sauce). But you can substitute homemade tomato sauce as well.
- Corn. Fresh and frozen corn both work well in this turkey chili.
How to make turkey chili
Like I’ve said before, this healthy turkey chili recipe is easy to make and only takes 30 minutes on the stovetop. As always, we’ll walk through the process step-by-step, and don’t forget to watch the video
Make the spice mixture
Begin this recipe by making the spice mixture. Simply mix the spices together in a small bowl and set them aside.
Cook the Turkey, Onion & Garlic
Cook ground turkey, olive oil, onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until turkey just begins to brown (7-10 minutes).
Add peppers
Next, add the bell peppers, cover and cook until peppers are soft (about 5 minutes).
Add tomatoes & spices
Once the veggies are soft, add tomatoes, tomato sauce and chilies, and the spice mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
Add corn & beans & cook
Add corn and beans and stir until combined. Cover & cook over medium heat for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, reduce heat to a simmer until ready to serve.
Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
Freeze
You can freeze this turkey chili in an airtight container for up to 2 months!
Recipe FAQs
What kind of beans go in chili?
My top three are black beans, northern (white) beans, and kidney beans.
Can you freeze turkey chili?
Absolutely. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to two months.
Should I drain kidney beans for chili?
Yes, all the beans should be drained and rinsed before using in this turkey chili recipe.
Is Chili healthy to eat?
This chili uses lean ground turkey, lots of veggies and beans making it a healthy meal loaded with protein, fiber and nutrients.
