Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, soul-warming Turkey and Bean Chili that'll have your family begging for seconds! This isn't just another chili recipe - it's a flavor-packed, protein-rich meal that combines lean ground turkey with two types of beans, creating a nutritious and incredibly satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings. Whether you're a chili enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and has developed a light golden color, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the turkey. Stir to evenly distribute the spices and cook for another minute to bloom the spices' flavors.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili cook for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced green onions.
Tips
- For deeper flavor, consider toasting your spices in the pan for 30 seconds before adding other ingredients. This helps release their essential oils and intensifies the taste.
- Use fresh ground turkey with a slightly higher fat content (93/7 ratio) to ensure the meat stays juicy and flavorful during cooking.
- Don't rush the simmering process - low and slow cooking allows the spices to meld and develop a rich, complex flavor profile.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce and concentrate the sauce.
- Make a double batch and freeze portions for quick future meals - this chili actually tastes even better the next day!
- Experiment with toppings like diced avocado, jalapeños, or a squeeze of fresh lime to customize your chili experience.
- For added depth, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of beer or red wine after cooking the turkey to capture all those delicious browned bits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 283kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg
