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Turkey Chili

This healthy turkey chili is a flavorful, protein-packed meal made with lean ground turkey, kidney beans, and sweet corn. Spiced just right, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or game day. Whether made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it’s a convenient and hearty option that everyone will love!
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

Sauté the Vegetables

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper.
  • Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.

Brown the Turkey

  • Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it apart with a spoon.
  • Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink.

Add Spices

  • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  • Cook for about 20 seconds to toast the spices.

Add Liquid and Beans

  • Pour in the diced or crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, kidney beans, and corn.
  • Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Chili

  • Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld.
  • Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serve

  • Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, or sour cream.

Notes

Chili Powder: McCormick's Chili Powder (used in this recipe) is mild. If using a spicier brand, reduce the amount to 2–3 tablespoons and adjust to taste.
Slow Cooker Instructions: Reduce the chicken broth to ½ cup. Brown the turkey and onions before adding all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–7 hours.