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 (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup bell peppers, diced

Highlighted under: Everyday Kitchen

I became enamored with this Ground Turkey Chili With Beans after my first tasting when I was searching for a light yet hearty meal. I wanted a dish that satisfied my craving for something savory, but didn't weigh me down. The combination of ground turkey, beans, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful, filling meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze after a cozy evening at home.

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-03-31T11:01:05.064Z

When I first made this chili, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. I started with sautéing onions and garlic, which filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The method of simmering the spices with the ground turkey really enhances the depth of flavor, making each bite rich and savory. I found that not only was this recipe quick, but it also held up well as leftovers for my busy week ahead.

I also love how versatile this chili is. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if you prefer a bit of heat. In fact, I often sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness just before serving. It's a comforting meal that never fails to impress!

Reasons to Love This Chili

Lean ground turkey makes it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor
Packed with protein and fiber to keep you full and satisfied
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The seasoning in this Ground Turkey Chili With Beans is crucial for building rich flavors. The chili powder and cumin not only add warmth but also depth to the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the seasoning step. A good trick I use is to toast these spices for about 30 seconds in the oil before adding other ingredients; this enhances their aroma and flavor significantly.

Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to match your taste. After simmering, taste the chili and you might find it needs a touch more salt or a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavors. If you have some smoked paprika on hand, it can add a delightful smoky note that complements the turkey perfectly.

Choosing the Right Beans

The choice of beans in this recipe provides not just texture but also an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. Black beans offer a creamy texture, while kidney beans bring a firmer bite that contrasts wonderfully with the ground turkey. If you’re looking for alternatives due to dietary preferences, you can swap in chickpeas for a different flavor dimension or even lentils, which cook faster and could reduce simmering time slightly.

Be sure to rinse the canned beans well to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid, which can affect the overall taste of your chili. If using dried beans instead, soak them overnight and cook them separately to ensure they're tender before adding them to your chili.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Chili With Beans

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup bell peppers, diced

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Steps to Make Ground Turkey Chili

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it's browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.

Season the Chili

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Beans and Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the black and kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn't stick.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty chili!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding some smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chili is an excellent candidate for meal prep. It stores beautifully, so you can easily make a larger batch and freeze portions for future meals. To freeze, let the chili cool completely first, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat until piping hot.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to four days. Reheating on the stove is ideal to retain the chili’s consistency and flavor. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems too thick after sitting.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Turkey Chili With Beans is versatile when it comes to serving. I love serving it with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, consider topping it with avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add freshness to the rich chili base.

If you're looking to enhance the dish further, a sprinkle of cheese or crushed tortilla chips adds a satisfying crunch. You can also transform leftover chili into a delicious burrito or taco filling, serving it in warm tortillas for a quick meal that’s full of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lean beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef if you prefer, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly richer.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

You can skip the turkey and use additional beans or lentils as the protein source.

→ Can I freeze the leftover chili?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well, so you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ What toppings go well with chili?

I love adding shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado for a creamy contrast!