Ground Turkey Chili With Beans

Name: Ground Turkey Chili With Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Delights

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey Chili with Beans on chilly evenings! It's a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. The blend of spices enhances the flavor, while the ground turkey keeps it lean and healthy. I enjoy experimenting with different types of beans, giving it a unique twist every time I prepare this dish. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that fills my kitchen with delightful aromas. Plus, it's perfect for meal prepping and is always a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:37:37.189Z

When I first tried making chili with ground turkey, I was surprised by how flavorful it could be while still being lighter than traditional beef chili. The versatility of this dish allows me to customize each pot, adding a variety of beans or even some sweet corn. My secret tip is to let it simmer longer to deepen the flavors; the longer it cooks, the better it gets!

Over the years, I've found that garnishing with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream elevates the dish even further. It adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the chili, making every bite something to savor. This recipe is a staple in my household, and I think it will become one in yours too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling while being low in fat
Versatile - customize with your favorite beans and spices
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

Ingredient Insights

The choice of beans in this Ground Turkey Chili not only adds texture but also enhances its nutritional profile. Kidney beans contribute a robust flavor, while black beans lend a creamier texture, creating a delightful contrast that is both hearty and satisfying. For an extra kick, consider using different beans such as pinto or cannellini. They not only diversify the taste but also provide a variety of essential nutrients.

Tomatoes with green chilies introduce both acidity and heat to the dish, balancing the richness of the turkey and beans. If you're looking to adjust the spice level, you could use plain diced tomatoes and add in your preferred chili separately. This gives you more control over the heat while still maintaining the tomato base essential for a good chili.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the turkey, onion, and garlic together is crucial as it develops a rich flavor base. Make sure to cook on medium heat, stirring frequently until the turkey is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes. This step creates a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish. Don't rush past this; allowing the ingredients to mingle will make a significant difference in the final taste.

Simmering the chili for at least 20 minutes allows the spices to infuse thoroughly, melding the flavors together beautifully. You’ll want to check occasionally, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If you notice it thickening too much, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help maintain a good consistency without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious chili that warms the soul!

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, shredded cheese

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a piping hot pot of chili!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook up a delicious pot of Ground Turkey Chili!

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain both cans of beans.

Cook the Turkey

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, and garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned and the onion is translucent.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add the diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Mix in the Beans

Add the kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, serve hot with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, or shredded cheese.

Your delicious Ground Turkey Chili is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Ground Turkey Chili is an excellent make-ahead meal. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping. When reheating, add a splash of broth to help revive the chili’s texture, especially if it has thickened in the fridge.

For a quick meal, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If reheating on the stove, use low to medium heat and stir frequently until warmed through. This method also allows you to adjust the flavors by adding fresh spices or a dash of hot sauce as you warm it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This chili pairs beautifully with a range of toppings. I love to serve it with a dollop of sour cream, which adds creaminess and counters the chili’s heat. Finishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also a refreshing herbal note that brightens the entire dish. For those who enjoy a little crunch, crushed tortilla chips or diced avocado are delightful additions.

Variations on this recipe can easily cater to different dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat substitute or additional beans. To boost the flavor, adding diced bell peppers or corn can provide a sweet contrast to the spices. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to find your personal favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can brown the turkey first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder to your preference.

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more beans or vegetables.

→ How long does chili last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored, chili can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.