Ground Turkey Chili With Beans

Name: Ground Turkey Chili With Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Classic Hearty Meals

I love preparing Ground Turkey Chili With Beans on cozy evenings when I want something hearty and satisfying. This dish combines the lean protein of turkey with the rich flavors of spices and beans, creating a delightful meal that's both nutritious and comforting. After experimenting with different ingredients, I've found that using a mix of black and kidney beans really enhances the texture and flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for my family.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:17:35.937Z

When I first made this Ground Turkey Chili, I wanted a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili without sacrificing flavor. The lean ground turkey, combined with a variety of beans and spices, created a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that quickly became a family favorite.

I learned that letting the chili simmer for longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth that really makes this meal shine. Pairing it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips enhances the experience, making it a fulfilling dinner that everyone enjoys.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein to keep you satisfied
Rich and warming flavors are perfect for cold evenings
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Ingredient Insights

The choice of beans is crucial for achieving the right texture in Ground Turkey Chili. Black beans provide a creamy consistency while kidney beans add a firm bite, creating a delightful contrast. If you’re looking for a change, pinto beans can also work well and bring a different flavor profile. Just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce excess sodium and prevent the chili from becoming overly salty.

Using lean ground turkey keeps this dish light without sacrificing flavor. It’s essential to brown the turkey properly, which adds depth to the dish. When cooking, aim for a golden brown color to enhance the richness of the chili. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using ground turkey with chili seasoning mixed in or opt for a leaner cut that may retain more moisture.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onion and garlic, it's important to keep an eye on the heat level. Medium heat is ideal to ensure the onion becomes translucent without burning. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid a bitter flavor in your chili. Cooking the aromatics until they are soft and fragrant will lay a solid flavor foundation for the entire dish.

To develop the chili's flavors, allowing it to simmer is non-negotiable. As it simmers, the ingredients meld together, creating a harmonious flavor profile. I often let mine simmer for up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the spices to bloom fully. If you find the consistency too thick, add an additional splash of chicken broth to achieve your desired texture.

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Chili With Beans

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth

Preparing the Ingredients

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes.

Mix in the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for 2 minutes to enhance their flavors.

Add Beans and Tomatoes

Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve Warm

Serve the chili warm, topped with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Enjoy Your Chili!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking. This chili also freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Ground Turkey Chili is perfect for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to make it ahead, prepare the entire dish and cool it completely before refrigerating. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in 30-second increments.

For longer storage, consider freezing your chili. It can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, allow the chili to cool, then place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions

One of the wonderful aspects of Ground Turkey Chili is its versatility when it comes to toppings. I love adding shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of fresh avocado, which not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture that complements the chili’s warmth. Chopped green onions and fresh cilantro can also brighten up the dish.

Serve the chili alongside crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner option. For those who enjoy some crunch, tortilla chips make an excellent side, allowing for a fun way to scoop up the chili.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even beef if you prefer.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

You can omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and diced avocados.

→ Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your tastes, adding things like oregano or cayenne pepper.