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Hearty Turkey Chili Bowl Recipe with 5 Easy Spicy Flavor Boosts

turkey chili bowl - featured image

A quick and easy hearty turkey chili with a spicy flavor boost, perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings. This lean, protein-packed chili combines smoky spices, fresh lime, and wholesome ingredients for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if available)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chipotle powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and drain and rinse the kidney beans (about 10 minutes).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
  3. Add diced onion and bell pepper; cook for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add ground turkey and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until no longer pink and breaking up clumps.
  6. Sprinkle chili powder, smoked paprika, chipotle powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper over the turkey and veggies; stir well to coat evenly.
  7. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
  8. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Add rinsed kidney beans and lime juice; cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
  10. Adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or lime juice.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.

Notes

If chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. If too thin, simmer longer to thicken. Toast spices lightly in the pot before adding liquids to enhance aroma. For slow cooker adaptation, brown turkey and onions first, then cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, hearty chili, spicy chili, easy chili recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food, lean protein, healthy chili