Ground Turkey Chili
A healthier alternative to regular chili. This chili is economical and freezes well. I threw it together with things I already had in my kitchen after ground turkey went on sale at the store.
A healthier alternative to regular chili. This chili is economical and freezes well. I threw it together with things I already had in my kitchen after ground turkey went on sale at the store.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 can cannellini beans
- 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 3 cloves garlic minced (from jar is ok)
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 1 can diced tomatoes with mild green chilies
- 1/2 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 can whole kernel corn (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can fat-free low-sodium chicken broth
- Carbohydrate 5.17832672022798 g
- Cholesterol 73.708760125 mg
- Fat 3.45235866139283 g
- Fiber 0.96057650059519 g
- Protein 25.277490794986 g
- Saturated Fat 1.11409881252236 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 serving(s) (144g)
- Sodium 105.813854927529 mg
- Sugar 4.21775021963279 g
- Trans Fat 0.572922141601298 g
- Calories 157 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large pot over medium heat saute the onion, garlic and ground turkey until turkey is browned.
- Add tomatoes, pepper, cumin, chili powder, oregano, cinnamon, brown sugar and cayenne pepper.
- Saute for 5 more minutes.
- Add black beans, corn and chicken broth to the pot.
- Puree cannellini beans in a blender or food processor.
- Add puree to the pot.
- Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.
- If the turkey mixture seems dry when browning, add a splash of olive oil.
- The spice measurements are approximate. If you want more or less heat, adjust the cayenne and the hot sauce.
- If desired, garnish with sour cream, shredded cheese or green onions.
My Go-To Ground Turkey Chili: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and endless to-do lists, whipping up something from scratch often seems impossible. But I've learned that even with a packed schedule, nourishing my family with home-cooked meals is achievable, and this ground turkey chili is my secret weapon. It's quick, easy, flavorful, and surprisingly budget-friendly – a trifecta for any busy household.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I discovered it almost accidentally, on a weeknight when I spotted ground turkey on sale. I rummaged through my pantry, grabbing whatever looked appealing and tossed it all into a pot. The result? A hearty, comforting chili that became an instant family favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that’s less about precise measurements and more about embracing the flavors you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add your own personal touches. One time I added a can of diced butternut squash because I had some leftover from another meal, and it was fantastic!
This chili is a true weeknight hero. It's incredibly versatile; it can be served as a standalone meal, paired with crusty bread, or even used as a topping for baked potatoes. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option. I often double the recipe and freeze half for those evenings when I'm truly short on time. This way, I always have a healthy, homemade meal ready to go.
What I love most about this chili is its ability to adapt to my ever-changing needs. Sometimes, I'm craving a spicier kick, so I'll add a dash of extra cayenne pepper. Other times, I'm looking for a milder, more family-friendly version, so I'll tone down the heat. The flexible nature of the recipe makes it a go-to for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Often, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
The ingredients are incredibly accessible, many of which I usually keep stocked in my pantry. This ensures I’m always prepared to whip up a batch whenever the craving hits. This chili is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to efficient cooking, delicious flavors, and the joy of nourishing my family with something homemade and heartfelt.
Beyond its deliciousness and convenience, this chili also offers a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili. Ground turkey is lower in fat and cholesterol, making it a smart choice for health-conscious families. And let’s be honest, the ability to freeze half the batch for future meals is a lifesaver! It’s the ultimate in meal prepping, ensuring that even on my busiest days, I can still offer my family a wholesome and comforting meal.
So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal that the whole family will love, give this ground turkey chili a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your weeknight rotation. It's proof that even on the busiest of days, you can still create something delicious and satisfying from scratch, without sacrificing flavor or time. It’s a simple recipe that embodies the heart of home cooking: a blend of convenience, health, and undeniable deliciousness.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground turkey and ground beef.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Experiment with different beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans.
- Top with your favorite chili toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or crumbled tofu.
This chili is truly a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a dash of creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy!
