Easy Turkey Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This quick and easy turkey chili is perfect for any chili lover. Ground turkey provides a lean alternative to traditional chili meats, while still delivering on flavor. With a flavorful seasoning blend and pantry staples like kidney beans and Rotel tomatoes, it’s a convenient and customizable dish. Plus, this chili is not only quick but makes amazing leftovers for lunches or another dinner. It’s versatile too — adjust the heat level based on your preferences!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ medium onion, chopped

• 1 pound ground turkey

• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)

• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained

• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies with juices

• ½ cup water or chicken broth

• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

2. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.

3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

4. Add the beans, Rotel, and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar, stirring occasionally.

5. While the chili is simmering, prepare your toppings.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot with your preferred toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Beans: Feel free to swap out kidney beans for black beans, navy beans, or any beans you prefer.

• Protein: If you prefer, use ground beef or ground chicken instead of ground turkey for a different flavor profile.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or use mild Rotel if you prefer a less spicy chili.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

• Freezing: The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave. For a fresh touch, prep toppings just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this turkey chili spicier?

Yes, you can add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier variety of Rotel to increase the heat.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! You can swap the ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes, but Rotel adds both flavor and a bit of heat due to the green chilies.

How long will this chili last in the fridge?

The chili will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze turkey chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the turkey and onions first, then add the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Is this chili healthy?

Yes! Ground turkey is lean, and this chili is packed with fiber from the beans, making it a healthier option than traditional beef chili.

How can I make this chili thicker?

If you want a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth or simmer the chili uncovered for a bit longer to allow it to thicken.

What should I serve with this chili?

Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the portion size?

Yes, you can easily double or halve the recipe depending on how many people you’re serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Turkey Chili is a delicious and simple meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for a warm, comforting dish. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a flavorful chili ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy rainy days!

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