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Hearty Turkey Chili

This comforting turkey chili is made by sautéing onions and garlic, browning ground turkey, and simmering with diced tomatoes, beans, and spices until thick and flavorful. The final dish has a rich, chunky texture with a vibrant, spicy aroma, perfect for warming up on a cold day or as a wholesome weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey lean
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder optional, for heat
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes fresh or canned
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste richness and depth
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth to enhance flavor
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers colorful addition
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots adds sweetness
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen or fresh
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed

Instructions
 

  • Heat your large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it releases a warm, aromatic smell.
  • Push the sautéed onions and garlic to the sides of the pot, then add the ground turkey. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until it browns evenly, about 5-7 minutes, until no pink remains.
  • Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey and release the spices' fragrant aroma.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the tomato paste, stirring to combine everything into a thick, bubbling mixture.
  • Pour in the broth and stir again, loosening any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
  • Add the chopped bell peppers, diced carrots, and corn kernels, mixing them into the chili base.
  • Stir in the drained kidney beans, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the mixture.
  • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the chili simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
  • Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed—add a squeeze of lime or fresh cilantro for brightness if desired.
  • Serve the hearty turkey chili hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.