Easy Turkey Chili

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Simple ingredients with big flavor
• Works for both quick stovetop meals and slow cooker days
• Great for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

Chili Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can crushed tomatoes

Spices

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 2½ tsp cumin
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp coriander
• Salt & pepper to taste

Beans

• 2 cans kidney beans (drained)
• OR 3 cups dried beans, soaked and cooked

For Serving

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Saltine or oyster crackers
• Hot sauce (such as Louisiana-style or Frank’s)

Instructions

1. Prepare beans (if using dried)

Soak beans overnight. Boil for about 2 hours until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the turkey

Cook turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Set aside.

3. Build the chili

Heat oil in a large pot. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic. Stir in tomatoes, spices, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Combine

Add turkey and beans. Simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.

5. Serve

Serve warm and let everyone customize their bowl with toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with shredded cheddar, crackers, and hot sauce. Optional: chopped green onions.

Make It Your Way

To make this meal simple and quick, canned beans are a great option.

Our family prefers using dried beans. The texture and flavor are better, and the extra prep time pays off.

This chili also works well in a slow cooker. Prepare everything the same way, then cook on low throughout the day.

Whether made on the stovetop or in a crockpot, this is an easy, reliable family favorite.