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Turkey Chili

This lean and hearty turkey chili is packed with protein from ground turkey, kidney beans, and sweet corn. It’s a flavorful, fiber-rich meal that's easy to make, comforting, and perfect for chilly nights or game day gatherings. Whether you make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Calories: 336kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 lb extra-lean ground turkey or chicken 99% lean
  • 4 tablespoons chili powder* see notes for adjustments
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1 28 oz can diced or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
  • 2 15 oz cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 15 oz can sweet corn, rinsed and drained

Optional Toppings

  • Shredded cheese
  • Diced avocado
  • Tortilla chips
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables soften.
  • Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the turkey is browned and no longer pink.
  • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Let the spices cook for about 20 seconds to develop their flavors.
  • Add the diced or crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, kidney beans, and corn. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Lower the heat and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  • Serve hot with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro, or sour cream.

Notes

Chili Powder: If you're using a spicier brand of chili powder, you may want to reduce the amount to 2–3 tablespoons and adjust it to your taste.
Slow Cooker Option: Reduce the chicken broth to ½ cup. Brown the turkey and onions before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–7 hours.