Turkey Chili with Kidney Beans (Print Version)

A hearty dish combining lean turkey, kidney beans, corn, and spices for a flavorful dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb lean ground turkey

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels, drained
06 - 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
07 - 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

08 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
09 - 2 tbsp tomato paste

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
13 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
14 - 1 tsp dried oregano
15 - 1 tsp salt
16 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Optional Toppings

17 - Chopped cilantro
18 - Sliced green onions
19 - Shredded cheese or sour cream

# Steps:

01 - Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
02 - Add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes.
03 - Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes with juices, kidney beans, corn, and broth. Stir to combine thoroughly.
05 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld together.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Everything cooks in one pot so cleanup is practically nonexistent
  • The turkey keeps it light but the spices make it feel indulgent and satisfying
  • Leftovers somehow taste better each day, making it perfect for meal prep
02 -
  • I learned the hard way that rinsing the kidney beans makes a huge difference in the final flavor
  • Letting the spices cook in the hot fat for that minute releases their oils and prevents a raw powdery taste
  • The chili needs that 25 minute simmer to really come together so don't rush this step
03 -
  • Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the liquid
  • If it's too thick for your liking, just add a bit more broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency

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