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Turkey Chili

Bowl of turkey chili topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro, surrounded by tortilla chips.

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This healthy turkey chili is a hearty, protein-packed comfort food loaded with lean ground turkey, beans, vegetables, and bold spices. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 celery ribs, diced
  • 1/2 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup masa harina
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking into crumbles. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pot. Sauté onion, celery, poblano, carrot, and garlic for 5 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix masa harina, cumin, garlic powder, salt, chili powders, paprika, cinnamon, and coriander.
  4. Return turkey to the pot. Sprinkle in the spice mixture and stir to coat evenly.
  5. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and creamed corn. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, green onions, and hot sauce.

Notes

  • Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey by adding chopped meat at the end of cooking.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
  • For extra heat, add jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
  • Masa harina gives the chili a rich, thick texture and mild corn flavor.
  • Let chili rest overnight for deeper flavor the next day.

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