High Protein Turkey Chili

Name: High Protein Turkey Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this High Protein Turkey Chili, especially on cool evenings when I need something hearty and satisfying. The combination of lean turkey, beans, and vegetables creates a fulfilling dish packed with protein that warms me right up. It’s rich in flavor yet surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether I'm enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this chili never fails to impress. Plus, knowing how nutritious it is makes every bite feel even better.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:05:09.288Z

While experimenting with my chili recipes, I decided to switch things up by using ground turkey instead of beef. This choice not only lowered the fat content but also allowed the spices and flavors to truly shine. I discovered that incorporating ingredients like bell peppers and kidney beans enhances the texture and gives the chili a delightful depth.

One significant tip I've picked up along the way is to let the chili simmer longer. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bowl a delight. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess while keeping it healthy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High protein content to fuel your day
Rich and satisfying flavors with a hint of spice
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Choosing the Right Turkey

When making High Protein Turkey Chili, opting for lean ground turkey is essential to keep the dish healthy without sacrificing flavor. Look for turkey labeled as 93% lean or higher to minimize fat while ensuring plenty of protein. Ground turkey absorbs spices and flavors remarkably well, becoming tender as it cooks. However, if you prefer a richer taste, you can go for a blend of lean turkey and a small amount of darker meat, around 8% fat, to maintain moisture and enhance depth.

If ground turkey isn’t available or you're seeking variety, consider substituting with ground chicken or even lean beef. Keep in mind, though, that these alternatives may alter the flavor profile, requiring slight adjustments in spices or cook times. For a vegetarian version, chickpeas or lentils can take the place of turkey, maintaining the protein content while creating a heartier, plant-based option.

Perfecting the Chili Texture

Achieving the perfect chili texture is all about balancing the liquid ingredients and solids. Start with the recommended amounts, but be prepared to adjust if you prefer your chili thicker or more soupy. If it becomes too thick while simmering, simply add a little extra chicken broth in small increments until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate, thickening the chili beautifully.

Additionally, the timing of your simmer is crucial. The longer you allow the chili to simmer, the more the flavors meld together. A minimum of 30 minutes is good, but for an even richer taste, consider simmering for an hour to deepen the flavor. During this time, stirring periodically helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious chili.

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chili.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.

Mix in the Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Stir occasionally.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with Greek yogurt or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your homemade chili with crusty bread or over rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to this chili recipe. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch for easy meals later.

Serving Suggestions

High Protein Turkey Chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. I love to top mine with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream; it adds creaminess without the extra calories. You can also sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a fresh burst. For those who like a kick, sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce elevates the chili nicely.

Consider serving the chili with cornbread or warm tortillas on the side for a comforting meal. Both pair wonderfully, soaking up the delicious sauce. If you're looking to make it a complete meal, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.

Storing and Reheating

This chili is excellent for meal prep and freezes wonderfully. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor. When reheating, a gentle simmer on the stovetop works best to ensure it heats evenly and maintains its texture. If it’s too thick after freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or water as you heat it up.

For quick reheating, the microwave is a convenient option too. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be sure to check that it's heated all the way through to avoid cold spots. Adding fresh toppings right before serving can revive the flavors and make the dish feel freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

Use veggie ground meat and additional beans or lentils for protein.

→ Can I prepare this chili in advance?

Absolutely! It's even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

→ What are some good toppings for chili?

Try avocado, cilantro, cheese, or sour cream for a tasty finish!