Turkey Chili with Black Beans

Chili is a timeless comfort food, and this Turkey Chili with Black Beans is a leaner, protein-packed take on the classic. Ground turkey provides a lighter alternative to beef while still delivering a hearty and satisfying base. The addition of black beans adds creaminess, fiber, and a rich texture, making this chili both filling and nutritious. Aromatic vegetables, a medley of spices, and tomatoes come together to create a savory, slightly smoky, and deeply flavorful chili that’s perfect for chilly evenings, weeknight dinners, or game-day gatherings.

This recipe is versatile and approachable, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The aroma of chili simmering fills the kitchen with warmth, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy. Each bite offers a perfect balance of spice, heartiness, and comforting richness that makes it a go-to dish in my household.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this turkey chili because it’s healthy, filling, and utterly delicious. The lean turkey makes it a guilt-free comfort food, while black beans provide a creamy texture and earthy flavor. The spices—smoky paprika, chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cayenne—create a warm, complex profile without overwhelming the natural flavors. It’s one of those recipes where leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. I also love that it’s easy to customize: you can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or switch up the beans depending on what you have on hand.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Healthy & Protein-Packed: Lean turkey and black beans make it nutritious and satisfying.
• Flavorful: A well-balanced mix of spices, tomatoes, and aromatics creates depth and warmth.
• Comforting: Perfect for cold nights, game days, or when you need a cozy meal.
• Versatile: Works with rice, cornbread, or just a bowl on its own.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cooks in one pot and stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 55–60 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American / Southwestern

Ingredients

Turkey Chili with Black Beans

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound (450g) ground turkey
• 1 (15 oz / 425g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5 oz / 410g) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Quick Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot; sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft.
2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
3. Stir in spices and tomato paste; cook 1–2 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and black beans; bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens.
6. Finish with apple cider vinegar or lime juice; adjust seasonings.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

• Dice the onion and bell peppers. Mince garlic. Drain and rinse black beans.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Add garlic and bell peppers, sauté for another 3–4 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Cook Turkey

• Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula.
• Cook 5–6 minutes until turkey is browned and fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

• Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
• Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

• Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Simmer

• Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens and flavors meld.

Step 7: Add Brightness

• Stir in apple cider vinegar or lime juice to brighten flavors.
• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.

How to Serve

• Serve in bowls topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
• Pair with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
• Great for meal prep—portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners.

Recipe Tips

• Lean Turkey: Use lean ground turkey to reduce fat but keep the chili moist with broth.
• Adjust Spice: Increase or decrease cayenne and chili powder to your taste.
• Beans: Black beans are classic, but kidney beans or pinto beans can also be used.
• Thickness: Simmer longer to thicken or add extra broth if you like a soupier chili.

Variations

1. Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, hearty twist.
2. Spicy Chipotle Chili: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat.
3. Vegetable-Loaded Chili: Include zucchini, corn, or carrots for extra fiber and nutrients.
4. Slow Cooker Version: Sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook 4–6 hours on low.
5. Cheesy Turkey Chili: Stir in shredded cheese near the end for a creamy variation.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Can opener
• Measuring spoons and cups

Conclusion

This Turkey Chili with Black Beans is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Lean turkey, black beans, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of spices create a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and healthy. Whether served with rice, cornbread, or enjoyed on its own, this chili is versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a household favorite. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a lean, protein-rich alternative to traditional chili without sacrificing flavor or warmth.