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The Perfect Turkey Chili Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 94 reviews

This Perfect Turkey Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish made with shredded turkey, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any day, with a balanced mix of protein and fiber-rich beans, simmered to meld all the delicious flavors together.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cups shredded cooked turkey
  • 2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 heaping tablespoon light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cumin

Additional Ingredients

  • 3 cups canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Garnishes

  • Dollop of sour cream
  • Shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables and Spices: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped celery (note: celery is mentioned in the instructions though not listed in ingredients, assume 1/2 cup), red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, dried oregano, bay leaves, light brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for five minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the spices are fragrant.
  2. Add Turkey and Liquids: Stir in the shredded cooked turkey, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.
  3. Simmer Chili: Allow the chili to simmer for five minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors to meld and the turkey to fully absorb the spices.
  4. Add Kidney Beans and Continue Cooking: Mix in the drained and rinsed kidney beans, then continue to cook the chili for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
  5. Serve: Remove the bay leaves and serve the chili hot. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with shredded cheese for added richness and creaminess.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier chili, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if desired.
  • For a thicker chili, simmer longer uncovered or add a small amount of tomato paste.
  • This chili is excellent when made a day ahead as flavors deepen overnight.
  • Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

Keywords: turkey chili, healthy turkey chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, ground turkey chili, chili with beans

Find it online: https://dylangranv.com/the-perfect-turkey-chili-recipe/