healthy turkey chili recipe

A delicious, hearty bowl of chili is a great way to warm up on a cold day. But if you're looking for a healthier version of this classic comfort food, try making turkey chili. It's packed with protein and is a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet. Plus, it's easy to make and can be customized to fit your tastes.

Ingredients for Healthy Turkey Chili

To make a delicious and healthy turkey chili, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound of ground turkey
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, diced (optional)
1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, with liquid
1 can (4 ounces) of tomato sauce
1 tablespoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Shredded cheese, for topping (optional)
Sour cream, for topping (optional)

Instructions for Making Healthy Turkey Chili

Making turkey chili is easy and can be done in a few simple steps:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeno pepper (if using). Cook, stirring often, until the turkey is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese and sour cream, if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Healthy Turkey Chili

Making the best healthy turkey chili is easy and there are a few tips to keep in mind when making it:

Use lean ground turkey for the best results. You can also use ground chicken or lean ground beef if you prefer.
Feel free to add more vegetables to the chili. Diced zucchini, carrots, and celery are all good options.
If you like it spicy, feel free to add more jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
The chili can be served as is or served over rice or quinoa.
The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make turkey chili without beans?

Yes, you can make turkey chili without beans. Just omit the beans from the recipe and add an extra can of diced tomatoes.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Just add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

What can I serve with turkey chili?

Turkey chili can be served with a variety of side dishes such as cornbread, biscuits, or garlic toast. You can also serve it with a salad or steamed vegetables.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this chili ahead of time. Just allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze turkey chili?

Yes, you can freeze turkey chili. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freezing for up to 3 months.