Easy Turkey Chili Recipe: A Flavorful Fall Favorite
Are you craving a warm, comforting, and delicious meal that's also healthy and easy to make? Look no further than this easy turkey chili recipe! This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, a weekend gathering, or a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, customizable to your spice preference, and requires minimal cleanup. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed for simplicity, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean ground turkey is recommended for a healthier option.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works well.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained: For a hearty and protein-rich chili.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds another layer of flavor and texture.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained: Provides spice and acidity.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano: A classic chili seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For extra heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips.
Simple Steps to Chili Perfection:
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
Step 1: Browning the Turkey
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
- Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, Rotel, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
- Serve your delicious turkey chili hot, topped with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground turkey with 1 cup of cooked lentils or 1 (15-ounce) can of vegetarian chili beans.
- Add some sweetness: A tablespoon of brown sugar or molasses can balance the spices and add depth of flavor.
- Slow cooker magic: This recipe is also perfect for a slow cooker! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Meal prep friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
This easy turkey chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy!
