One Pot Wonder- Easy Chili with Turkey Recipe (2024)

Your heart leaps and your taste buds cheer as you think about warming up that cup of easy chili with turkey when you get home from work. To have something super delicious waiting in the fridge, or to come home and make it hot-off-the-grill (or hot-off-the-pot, but grill sounded better- LOL), for dinner is a huge bonus these days in the hustle and bustle of life. It can make meal prep a lot less stressful when you have quick and easy options that are healthy.

I’m excited to share the chili recipe that has been a family favorite of ours, over the years. I’m confident yours will enjoy it as well. And, after you make it, feel free to let me know what you think about the dish in the comments.

This post is all about an easy chili with turkey recipe.

One Pot Wonder- Easy Chili with Turkey Recipe (1)

Printable Chili Recipe

How to Make Turkey with Chili

Making easy chili with turkey is exactly that! Easy, no matter how you cook it! You can prepare it in a pot, via stovetop, like I did or even use an Instant Pot. Just brown the meat, add the rest of the ingredients, cover with a lid, and cook. It doesn’t take long to see this one-pot-wonder come together. It’s the perfect dish to serve on a cold fall or winter day. You can find the detailed recipe, below.

Turkey Chili Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon Grapeseed or Olive Oil
  • 1 Cup Diced Yellow Onion
  • 1 Tablespoon Crushed Garlic
  • 1/4 Cup Diced Yellow Pepper
  • 1 Medium Size Diced Sweet Potato
  • 1/2 Cup Frozen Corn
  • 1 Pound Ground Turkey
  • 1- 28 Ounce Can Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1- 16 Ounce Can Red Kidney Beans- Rinse and Drain
  • 2 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth- Low Sodium
  • 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder
  • 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tablespoon Sugar (I use Monk Fruit Sweetener)
  • 1 1/2 Teaspoons Pink Sea Salt or Regular Sea Salt
  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Basil
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Dried Oregano

Instructions

Start by browning the ground turkey with the oil and onions. Add minced garlic, yellow pepper, corn, and beans, once the meat is cooked. Next, add the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Finally, add the chili powder, sugar, garlic powder, sea salt, dried basil and oregano. Cook with the lid on for about one hour or until the chili is thoroughly heated and the flavors are well blended. Enjoy!

How to Make Diary Free and Gluten Free Turkey Chili

The good news is that this recipe is naturally diary and gluten-free. The toppings you add will help you fully incorporate the FREES. Opt to use dairy-free cheeses and sour cream, and gluten-free crackers and breads. The shredded cheese you see in my bowl are a dairy-free version.

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Can You Cook Turkey Chili in a Slow Cooker

Absolutely, yes! Chili is one of those pots of deliciousness that is super versatile and able to be cooked in multiple ways to suit your lifestyle. Sometimes you just need a set-it-and-forget-it method. The slow cooker offers busy moms and full time employees the ability to have a hot and ready meal waiting for them. To make cooking go even faster, try using the Instant Pot.

If you prefer to cook your chili using the crock pot method, set it on low and cook for about 6-7 hours, or on high and cook for about 3-4 hours. Then, bon appetite!

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Chili Topping Ideas

When it comes to turkey chili toppings there are so many to choose from. Here is a list of common, and not-so-common garnishes.

  • Avocado
  • Onions- red, green, yellow, and white
  • Cheese- cubes and shredded
  • Sour Cream
  • Tortilla Chips
  • Crackers
  • Croutons
  • Corn Bread Crumbles
  • French Bread Pieces
  • Croissant Bites
  • Biscuit Crumbles
  • Fried Onion Crisps
  • Bacon Bits
  • Lime Wedge
  • Greek Yogurt
  • Cocoa Powder
  • Soy Sauce
  • Coconut Aminos
  • Honey
  • Olives
  • Mango
  • Siracha
  • Dried Cranberries
  • Seasonings

You can also pour your easy chili with turkey over baked potatoes, hot dogs, mac and cheese, nachos, and French fries. There are multiple options when it comes to how you can enjoy your turkey chili, and eat it too (pun intended). Hehe!

What to Serve with Chili

Have you ever thought about wanting a side-kick for your chili dish? Here are some yummy ideas that will make this hardy soup mesh well with a partner just like peanut butter goes with jelly. I’m on a roll, now! Lol!

  • Caesar Salad- Click here for our favorite Caesar dressing recipe.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich
  • Corn on the Cob
  • Coleslaw
  • Onion Rings
  • Fried Pickles
  • Quesadillas
  • Potato Skins
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How to Store Turkey Chili

When it comes to storing your chili, it’s best to place it in an airtight container. If you can opt to use glass or stainless steel, I’ve noticed these seem to keep the flavors beautifully blended, as opposed to using plastic.

The chili can last in the fridge for about 4 days. If you are noticing that you are not able to eat all of it within that timeframe, you can put the rest in a freezer bag. Just lay it flat, remove as much air as possible, and freeze. It should last about 3 months in the freezer. I’m confident you will be craving it again by then and have to pull it out for another helping.

Conclusion

When it comes to this easy chili with turkey recipe, there are so many ways to serve and eat your oh-so-delicious dish. From gluten and dairy free, to potato and hot dog toppings, this hardy meal can be served in many ways.

Feel free to use your creativity and make your own chili masterpiece however you see fit. And, let me know in the comments, your creative ideas and how you topped your bowl of goodness. I so enjoy hearing from you!

Related Posts To Check Out

Super Simple Caesar Salad Dressing without Anchovies

Simple Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe

Make and Bake Quick Breakfast Casserole

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P.S. Note of Encouragement

Something I have been pondering lately is the subject of forgiveness. Even though it doesn’t necessarily go hand-in-hand with a turkey chili recipe, it’s still a delicious topic to highlight because it can bring great fruit in our lives.

Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. That is something to keep in mind as you might have to work through this process one day. Sometimes hurt, disappointment, or betrayal, can take time to get over. The key is to intentionally ask God for His help in moving past the offence.

There are times when we have to work through a thought process over and over again, and remember to take every one of those thoughts “captive,” as the Word says, so that the voice of unforgiveness becomes quieter (2 Corinthians 10:5). It’s a process, much like everything else we walk through in life. But, it’s worth it so your heart can remain soft.

Give yourself grace as you forgive. And, the other person, too. Pray for them! You never know what other things they might be walking through to make them respond the way they did.

Hold fast to what God says to do as you work through forgiveness, and be intentional about it. He will make all things new in time. Stay the course and be encouraged. God will turn it to good as you partner with Him and do it His way.

Forgiveness is a tool God gave you, to set you free. You cannot control others and their choices. But, you can choose how you respond. Choose to forgive!

One Pot Wonder- Easy Chili with Turkey Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Can ground turkey be substituted for ground beef in chili? ›

A traditional style chili that can be made with ground turkey or ground beef. I have made this recipe with ground beef and ground turkey, and they both have a similar flavor. Delicious with sweet corn bread and shredded Cheddar cheese.

What is the secret to amazing chili? ›

Elevate your chili recipe by adding an extra layer of flavor. Cocoa powder, bacon, cinnamon, ground coffee and tomato paste will all add a rich sweet & salty flavors that are sure to surprise and delight.

Is turkey chili healthier than beef chili? ›

Ground turkey, when compared to ground beef, has lower levels of saturated fat—making it a better choice for heart health—and is lower in calories. Lentils are well-known to vegetarians and are a solid option for adding texture, protein, and deliciousness to chili; plus, they're good for you.

Is turkey chili good for type 2 diabetes? ›

Turkey chili is a healthier choice than beef chili for individuals with diabetes because it is low in calories, fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, and it is higher in protein and fiber.

What can I add to ground turkey to make it taste like beef? ›

Whenever I made turkey burgers, I would dissolve some beef bouillon in a little water and add it to the turkey with a little canola oil, then season and form the patties. The bouillon gave it some flavor and the water and oil helped with moisture. Just make sure not to overcook.

Is ground turkey really healthier than ground beef? ›

"Ground turkey contains less saturated fat than ground beef, giving it a more beneficial fat profile," says Beaver. "In its place, ground turkey instead contains more polyunsaturated fat, which is a protective, healthier type of fat."

What not to put in chili? ›

Beans and non-vegetable fillers such as rice and pasta are not allowed." If that sounds a bit uptight, the ICS's Homestyle Chili competition defines chili as: "any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients.

What is the most important spice in chili? ›

Most Common Chili Spices. Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of top notch comfort food.

What adds the most flavor to chili? ›

If you want more of a smoky flavor, add cumin, Spanish paprika, ancho chili powder, or a combination. If you are looking for more heat, add cayenne, crushed red pepper, or Hungarian paprika. If it's too spicy add a little brown sugar and some sweet paprika.

What kind of beans are good for chili? ›

The best beans for chili are pinto, kidney, and black beans, like in this easy and tasty recipe. This 3-bean chili freezes great for meals later in the week. If you prefer thinner chili, add an extra can of tomato sauce. The green chiles are not hot and add a wonderful flavor, so don't be afraid to use them.

Can you mix ground beef and ground turkey? ›

You may not have thought of doing it before, but combining ground beef and turkey into one burger patty creates a nice texture and flavor combination. The beef keeps the burger juicy, and the turkey adds a leaner meat to the mix while reducing the amount the cooked burger will shrink on the grill.

Will chili raise blood sugar? ›

Some studies have indicated that the consumption of chilli-containing foods can influence iron absorption and affect serum insulin and glucose concentrations, which may help to alleviate diabetes or prediabetes.

What is the best turkey for diabetics? ›

While deli turkey is not the best choice, unprocessed turkey breast without the skin is great. Turkey breast has almost no fat to speak of, and no saturated fat. It's an extremely low calorie protein option full of niacin and selenium. This Herbed Roast Turkey Breast is a satisfying dinner recipe to start with.

Does ground turkey spike blood sugar? ›

Turkey is a low glycemic index (GI) food. That means it won't cause the blood sugar spike that you'd get from more sugar-rich and carb-rich foods. If you have diabetes, including turkey in your diet can help you to keep your blood sugar under control.

Can you use turkey instead of beef in chili? ›

Ground turkey: we're adding lean protein with ground turkey (or you can use ground chicken) instead of traditional ground beef. Herbs & spices: the chili gets its incredible flavor from mild chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and plenty of salt.

What is a substitute for ground beef in chili? ›

With a similar texture, ground chicken or ground turkey can be superb substitutes for ground beef. The poultry is a bit paler than beef, which can change the appearance of some dishes, but they still taste equally delicious.

Can you always substitute ground turkey for ground beef? ›

Sure, in many recipes, but turkey is leaner, doesn't have a lot of flavor itself, and can easily dry out because you are often cooking to a higher temp than beef. You simply have to adjust your recipes to accommodate. Ans: Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef in many recipes.

Can you use ground turkey as ground beef? ›

Lean ground turkey is a super versatile protein that works well in lots of recipes. It can be used interchangeably with ground beef and won't dry out with some simple tricks.

References

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