High Protein Turkey Chili
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making High Protein Turkey Chili, especially during the colder months. The combination of lean turkey and a variety of beans makes for a hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrition. I experimented with different spices and found that a touch of smoked paprika and cumin really brings the chili to life. Whether I’m serving it on a Sunday afternoon or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe never disappoints and always leaves my family asking for seconds.
When I first made this High Protein Turkey Chili, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I used canned beans for ease, but chose to cook my own tomatoes to enhance the flavor. The fresh herbs added at the end made all the difference, brightening up the entire dish.
I also love that this chili is highly customizable. I’ve swapped in different beans and added vegetables like bell peppers or corn to boost the nutritional profile. It’s a great base recipe that allows for creativity!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet satisfying with a rich blend of spices
- Packed with protein to keep you full and energized
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
The Role of Beans in Chili
Beans are a crucial component of turkey chili, contributing both texture and nutrition. In this recipe, the black beans and kidney beans provide not just protein, but also fiber, helping the dish to feel hearty without being overly heavy. When selecting your beans, canned versions are convenient, but if you prefer, you can use dried beans. Just be sure to soak them overnight and adjust your cooking time accordingly, as dried beans will take longer to become tender than canned beans.
Using a mix of beans creates a variety of flavors and textures. Black beans have a creamy consistency, while kidney beans offer a firmer bite. This contrast enhances the overall mouthfeel of the chili. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other varieties like pinto or cannellini beans to see how they change the dish. Just remember to rinse and drain canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and any cooking liquid that might cloud the flavor of your chili.
Spice It Up
The spices in this turkey chili not only provide warmth but also depth of flavor. Chili powder is the star of the show, but the addition of smoked paprika and cumin elevates it to another level. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the lean turkey, while cumin lends an earthy aroma that rounds out the dish. For those who like it spicy, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix, adjusting to your heat preference.
Be mindful of your cooking process when adding spices. Allow the spices to bloom by adding them to the pot after the aromatics have sautéed. This allows the heat to release their essential oils and flavors, enriching the chili further. As you simmer, taste periodically and adjust the spice levels as needed. Sometimes, just a pinch more chili powder can bring the flavors into perfect harmony.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Shredded cheese
Instructions
Cook the Turkey
In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Remove from heat and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Make-Ahead Tips
This High Protein Turkey Chili is an ideal make-ahead meal. Cooking it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even richer taste. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without scorching the bottom.
If you anticipate having leftovers, consider freezing your chili for future meals. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This recipe also scales easily, so you can double it for larger gatherings. Just remember to adjust your pot size accordingly!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your turkey chili experience, consider an array of toppings. Shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime can elevate the dish, adding freshness that balances the richness of the chili. I love serving it with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side for a hearty meal that’s easy to share with friends and family.
If you're looking for a healthy twist, try serving it over cooked quinoa or brown rice. This adds another layer of texture, making the meal even more filling while also adding extra nutrients. Don't hesitate to venture beyond traditional toppings; jalapeños, pickled onions, or Greek yogurt can provide unique flavor profiles that breathe new life into each bowl of chili.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use something other than turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef or chicken can also work great in this recipe.
→ How long does it keep in the refrigerator?
The chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, it freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with chili?
Cornbread, rice, or a simple side salad pair well with chili.
High Protein Turkey Chili
I absolutely love making High Protein Turkey Chili, especially during the colder months. The combination of lean turkey and a variety of beans makes for a hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrition. I experimented with different spices and found that a touch of smoked paprika and cumin really brings the chili to life. Whether I’m serving it on a Sunday afternoon or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe never disappoints and always leaves my family asking for seconds.
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g