Turkey Chili

There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Turkey Chili, especially when the weather starts to turn cool in the fall. Every year, as autumn rolls in, I find myself craving this hearty dish, filled with robust flavors and a warmth that wraps around you like a favorite sweater. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, often shared with family and friends during cozy gatherings or game days. I remember the first time I made Turkey Chili—the aroma wafting through the kitchen, the laughter around the table as we eagerly dug in, and the satisfied smiles after each hearty spoonful. It’s a recipe that many of us return to, and for good reason. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes every bite a celebration of fall flavors.

Recipe Ingredients for Turkey Chili

The ingredients for Turkey Chili are a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s savory, hearty, and downright delightful. From the lean protein of the ground turkey to the vibrant spices like chili powder and cumin, these ingredients work in harmony to develop a complex flavor profile. The addition of tomato sauce and kidney beans not only enhances the taste but also makes the chili filling and nutritious.

• 1 pound ground turkey – A lean protein that forms the base of this chili, providing a hearty texture without the extra fat.
• ½ tablespoon sugar – A small amount of sweetness that helps balance the spices and acidity in the tomatoes.
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in chili.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Brings a robust garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder – The key spice that gives chili its classic flavor and warmth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt – Adds saltiness and a hint of garlic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Introduces a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
• Pepper to taste – Freshly ground black pepper adds a needed kick.
• 28-ounce can tomato sauce – Provides a rich, saucy base that ties everything together.
• 15.5-ounce can red kidney beans, drained – Adds protein and texture, making the chili hearty.
• 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes – Contributes freshness and acidity, balancing flavors.
• 1½ cups chicken broth – Adds depth and moisture to the chili.
• Toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, avocado – These toppings add creaminess and freshness, making each bowl even more delicious.

The Process for Making Turkey Chili

Making Turkey Chili is not only easy but also a fun experience! You’ll find that each step brings the dish closer to life and fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Let’s dive into the process of creating this hearty meal.

1. In a large pot, heat over medium heat and add the ground turkey. Cook the turkey, stirring often to break it up, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it loses its pink color and begins to develop a nice golden-brown hue.
2. Once the ground turkey is cooked, drain any excess fat. This step is important as it helps keep the chili from being greasy.
3. Add ½ tablespoon sugar, 2 tablespoons ground cumin, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, ½ teaspoon paprika, and pepper to taste to the pot. Stir well to combine these spices. You’ll start to notice that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as the spices heat up.
4. Now, it’s time to add in the wet ingredients. Pour in the 28-ounce can of tomato sauce, the drained 15.5-ounce can of kidney beans, the 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, and 1½ cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing it to cook uncovered. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Let the chili simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the consistency. You want it to thicken nicely but still remain saucy.
7. As it cooks, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more garlic salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicy!
8. Once it’s cooked through and delicious, remove it from the heat. You can add any desired toppings at this point, such as a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or avocado. Each topping enhances the flavors and adds a wonderful texture.
9. Serve your Turkey Chili in bowls, and don’t forget to enjoy it with some cornbread or tortilla chips!

Substitutions and Tips

As you embark on making this Turkey Chili, here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze Turkey Chili for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Variations: Consider adding other beans like black beans or pinto beans for a different texture.
• Serving suggestions: It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even over baked potatoes for a twist.
• Nutrition boost: Add in some vegetables like chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Ideas for Turkey Chili

When it comes to serving Turkey Chili, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• With Cornbread: Serve your chili alongside warm cornbread for a classic pairing that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Over Rice: Spoon the chili over a bed of rice for a filling and hearty meal.
• With Tortilla Chips: Serve it as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Game Day: This dish is ideal for gatherings, especially during football season. Just set up a chili bar with toppings!
• Seasonal Serving: Enjoy this warm dish on chilly autumn nights or during winter gatherings. It brings a cozy feel to any occasion.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They make for a great next-day lunch!

FAQ

Conclusion

This Turkey Chili is a true comfort food that combines warmth, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. It’s not just a meal but a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; you won’t regret the deliciousness it brings. Enjoy every bowlful, crafted with love and shared with those you cherish.

Turkey Chili

Craving a hearty meal? This Turkey Chili is the ultimate comfort food, packed with lean protein and vibrant spices. It's an easy weeknight dinner that warms you up from the inside out. Make it tonight for a satisfying dish that everyone will love!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground turkey
• ½ tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• pepper to taste
• 28 ounce tomato sauce
• 15.5 ounce red kidney beans drained
• 14.5 ounce diced tomatoes
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• toppings sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, avocado

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Saucepan

Method

 

1. In a large pot, cook ground turkey over medium heat, stirring to break up meat, until browned and cooked through. Drain fat.
2. Add sugar, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, garlic salt, paprika and pepper and stir to mix.
3. Add tomato sauce, kidney beans, tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes.
4. Season with more garlic salt and pepper, if desired, and add any desired toppings before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Tip 2: You can freeze Turkey Chili for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Tip 3: Consider adding other beans like black beans or pinto beans for a different texture.
• Tip 4: Serve it as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist.
• Tip 5: Add in some vegetables like chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.