This smoky chipotle turkey chili is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines lean ground turkey with chipotle peppers and beans.
It's perfect for a warming meal, especially on chilly days, offering a satisfying blend of smoky heat and savory depth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Using ground turkey keeps the chili lean yet hearty and packed with protein.
- Chipotle peppers add a smoky, spicy punch that elevates traditional chili flavors.
- Including beans boosts fiber and texture, creating a balanced meal.
- Simmering the chili allows flavors to meld together, enriching the depth of the dish.
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
This turkey chili combines smoky chipotle peppers, tender turkey, and beans for a rich, hearty dish perfect for any occasion.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 45 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (use less for milder chili)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz/411 g) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz/425 g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz/425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the base Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook the turkey and season Add ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in minced chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add liquids and beans Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth. Add kidney beans and black beans. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the chili Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve Ladle chili into bowls and top with chopped fresh cilantro and optional sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve hot.
Helpful Tips
- For less heat, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit cayenne pepper.
- Use lean ground turkey to keep the chili hearty but low in fat.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
You can freeze turkey chili for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this turkey chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the turkey and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this turkey chili are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure canned beans and broth are labeled gluten-free if required.
How spicy is this chili?
This chili has a medium heat level from the chipotle peppers and optional cayenne pepper, but you can adjust heat to your preference.
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