Award Winning Turkey Chili

The scent of simmering spices always takes me back. I remember a particularly blustery Tuesday evening, the kind where the wind howls and demands something warm from the kitchen. My youngest, Lily, was curled up on the couch, shivering despite her blanket.

That night, I decided to whip up a new chili recipe, hoping to chase away the chill and bring some cheer. Little did I know, it would become *the* recipe, the one that not only warmed their bellies but also their hearts. This isn’t just any chili; it’s our family’s celebrated dish, what we fondly call our Award Winning Turkey Chili.

Over the years, this incredible turkey chili has graced countless potlucks, comforted us through countless cold snaps, and even won a local chili cook-off (hence the “award-winning” moniker!). It’s hearty, it’s wholesome, and it’s ridiculously simple to make, proving that nourishing your family with love doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re searching for a go-to turkey chili recipe that truly delivers on flavor and comfort, you’ve found it.

This easy turkey chili recipe quickly became a treasured favorite in our home, and I know it will in yours too. We absolutely adore this delicious turkey chili, a true testament to simple ingredients creating something truly special. Get ready to experience the magic of this very best turkey chili!

Why You’ll Love This Award-Winning Turkey Chili Recipe

As a busy mom of three, I live by the motto that food should be both delicious and fuss-free. This Award Winning Turkey Chili perfectly embodies that philosophy. You will absolutely adore this recipe for so many reasons.

First, it’s incredibly nourishing. Lean ground turkey makes it a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili, packing in protein without the extra fat. Then, there’s the flavor profile – rich, complex, and just the right amount of spice, it truly tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even when it hasn’t.

It’s a wonderful, healthy turkey chili option. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, tasting even better the next day, which is a lifesaver for meal prep. Your whole family will embrace this savory turkey chili.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting friends, this Award Winning Turkey Chili disappears fast. This truly is the best turkey chili recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this flavorful turkey chili requires straightforward ingredients you likely already have on hand. Fresh, quality components truly make this Award Winning Turkey Chili shine.

Substitutions & Variations

This Award Winning Turkey Chili recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you don’t have kidney beans, feel free to use black beans or cannellini beans instead.

Any combination of beans works wonderfully in this easy turkey chili. You can also experiment with different bell pepper colors or even add a poblano pepper for a hint of smoky heat. To amp up the spice, include a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the spices.

For a milder version of this turkey chili, simply reduce the chili powder or omit the green chiles. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the chicken broth by half a cup. Vegetarians can easily swap the ground turkey for an equivalent amount of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute, transforming it into a hearty vegetarian chili. This versatile turkey chili truly allows for endless possibilities!

While this turkey chili is wonderfully adaptable to different beans and peppers, don’t limit your culinary adventures. If you enjoy experimenting with hearty, award-winning flavors, you might also love our Award Winning Beef Chili.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Award Winning Turkey Chili is a straightforward process, perfect for any weeknight. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result.

1. Sauté Aromatics: First, heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they soften.
2. Brown the Turkey: Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This step truly unlocks the deep flavors for our turkey chili.
4. Introduce Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, chicken broth, and green chiles. Stir everything together thoroughly.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the Award Winning Turkey Chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Longer simmering times develop deeper flavors.
6. Finish and Serve: Finally, stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you desire a little more heat, add another pinch of chili powder. Serve your delightful turkey chili hot with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving the best possible flavor in your Award Winning Turkey Chili comes down to a few simple tricks. First, don’t rush the browning of your turkey. Allowing it to develop a nice, golden crust adds depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve by simply steaming it.

Second, toast your spices. When you add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano to the hot pan with the cooked turkey and aromatics, let them cook for a minute or two, stirring constantly. This brief toasting releases their full aroma and flavor, making your turkey chili incredibly fragrant.

Third, always use low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes; this gives you complete control over the salt content, allowing you to season to your family’s taste. Fourth, consider a touch of acidity and sweetness at the end. The apple cider vinegar brightens all the flavors, while a tiny bit of brown sugar can balance the acidity from the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded and harmonious taste in your Award Winning Turkey Chili.

This extra step truly makes our turkey chili exceptional. Lastly, remember that chili, especially this healthy turkey chili, tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Make a big batch!

Mastering these flavor-building techniques ensures your turkey chili is a showstopper every time. For another delicious chili experience with its own unique flavor profile, consider trying our Award-Winning White Chicken Chili.

Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this Award Winning Turkey Chili is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store any leftover turkey chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this amazing turkey chili freezes beautifully!

Ladle cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, stirring halfway through. For larger quantities, gently reheat the Award Winning Turkey Chili on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it’s warmed through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. This easy turkey chili is truly a gift that keeps on giving!

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Award Winning Turkey Chili is a meal in itself, but it truly shines with the right accompaniments and toppings. Think of it as a canvas for delicious customization!

Toppings (essential for the full experience!):

• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Freshly chopped cilantro or green onions
• Diced avocado
• Crushed tortilla chips or Fritos
• A dash of your favorite hot sauce

Sides (to complete the meal):

• Warm, buttery cornbread or corn muffins
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Steamed white or brown rice for a heartier bowl
• Crusty bread for dipping

Whether you’re serving this turkey chili for a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering, these additions elevate the entire experience. Enjoy this fantastic turkey chili!

Elevating your turkey chili with these perfect toppings truly completes the meal. If you’re looking for another fantastic chili recipe that pairs wonderfully with a variety of garnishes, explore our Award Winning White Chicken Chili Recipe.

FAQs

Is this Award Winning Turkey Chili spicy?

This Award Winning Turkey Chili has a mild to medium spice level, perfect for most families. The green chiles and chili powder provide a warmth rather than an intense heat. However, you can easily adjust the spice.

For more heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version of this turkey chili, reduce the chili powder by half.

Can I make this Award Winning Turkey Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Award Winning Turkey Chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. Prepare it a day or two in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or entertaining. It’s truly a perfect make-ahead turkey chili.

What’s the best way to thicken turkey chili?

Our Award Winning Turkey Chili naturally thickens as it simmers and cools. If you prefer an even thicker consistency, you have a few options. You can continue to simmer it uncovered for an additional 15-30 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Alternatively, mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon; their starch will help thicken the chili. Some people also stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) during the last 10 minutes of simmering, but I find it’s rarely necessary for this robust turkey chili.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use ground chicken in place of ground turkey for this recipe. The cooking method remains the same, and it will still yield a delicious, healthy chili. Ground chicken offers a very similar lean profile and texture, making this Award Winning Turkey Chili just as satisfying with either poultry option. So, feel free to adapt this fantastic turkey chili!

Is this Award Winning Turkey Chili healthy?

Indeed! This Award Winning Turkey Chili is packed with lean protein from the ground turkey and fiber from the beans and vegetables. It’s a wholesome, nourishing meal that will keep you full and satisfied.

By controlling the amount of added salt and using fresh ingredients, you’re making a genuinely healthy turkey chili choice for your family. This nourishing turkey chili is a guilt-free indulgence.

Chili con carne, often simply referred to as chili, is a beloved and versatile dish typically featuring a blend of chili peppers, meat, and other ingredients like beans and tomatoes. While traditionally made with beef, variations like turkey chili provide a leaner and equally flavorful experience, reflecting the dish’s rich and adaptable culinary history.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of our Award Winning Turkey Chili. Please note, these are approximate values and can vary based on specific brands and exact quantities of ingredients used.

Award Winning Turkey Chili

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This Award Winning Turkey Chili is a hearty, wholesome, and ridiculously simple dish that has become a family favorite, even winning a local cook-off. Made with lean ground turkey, beans, and vegetables, it's a healthier, protein-packed alternative to traditional beef chili. Rich, complex, and perfectly spiced, it tastes like it's been simmering all day. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, and feeding a crowd, this versatile and comforting chili is a true testament to simple ingredients creating something truly special.

• Total Time: 65 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

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1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1.5 pounds Ground Turkey
1 large Yellow Onio
2 Bell Peppers (any color)
3 cloves Garlic
3 tablespoons Chili Powder
1 tablespoon Ground Cumi
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Salt
0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 28-ounce can Crushed Tomatoes
1 14.5-ounce can Diced Tomatoes
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 15-ounce can Kidney Beans
1 15-ounce can Pinto Beans
1.5 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth
1 4-ounce can Mild Diced Green Chiles
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon Brown Sugar (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they softe
2. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot
3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, chicken broth, and green chiles. Stir everything together thoroughly
5. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Longer simmering times develop deeper flavors
6. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings

Notes

To achieve deeper flavor, don't rush browning the turkey to develop a golden crust.

Toast spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano) for 1-2 minutes in the hot pan to release their full aroma and flavor.

Use low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes to control the salt content.

A touch of apple cider vinegar brightens flavors, and brown sugar can balance tomato acidity.

This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld, making it excellent for meal prep.

Substitutions are flexible: use black or cannellini beans, different bell peppers, or add a poblano for heat. Adjust spice by adding jalapeño/cayenne or reducing chili powder/omitting green chiles. Reduce broth by half a cup for a thicker chili.

For a vegetarian version, swap ground turkey for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or water if too thick.

• Author: Ashley Chen
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg