Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that comes together in no time? This Easy Turkey White Bean Chili is the perfect answer! It's a lean, protein-packed dish that doesn't compromise on flavor. With the rich taste of ground turkey, the subtle heat from diced tomatoes with chiles, and the creamy texture of white beans, this chili is both satisfying and wholesome.
This Easy Turkey White Bean Chili is a go-to recipe for any gathering, whether it's a cozy dinner with family or a lively tailgate party with friends. As someone who enjoys hosting and sharing good food, chili has always been a favorite, especially during the cooler months. While traditional chili for a crowd can be heavy, this version stands out for its lean, protein-packed ingredients that satisfy without the guilt. It's what I like to call a "no chop chili" because it's incredibly easy to prepare—just a few simple steps and you're on your way to a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ground turkey chili is a healthier alternative that doesn't skimp on taste. The combination of tender ground turkey, creamy white beans, and a perfect blend of spices creates a dish that's both comforting and nutritious. It's proof that good food doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious—sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
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Ingredients
- Olive Oil – Turkey is super lean so using a little oil helps it to cook well. Use your favorite light, neutral-flavored oil.
- Ground Turkey – I chose turkey because it's lean but you could also use ground chicken or ground turkey.
- Diced Tomatoes with Chiles – While you can use plain diced tomatoes, I prefer the mild heat from the ones with added chiles.
- Frozen Pepper and Onions – Frozen vegetables are super convenient, especially on busy nights. You can use fresh diced peppers and onions if you prefer.
- White Beans – Rinsed and drained canned white beans add creaminess and protein.
- Water
- Chili Powder – This jarred spice gives the chili its characteristic flavor and heat.
- Salt and pepper – Sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the overall taste of the chili.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Turkey Chili
Step 1 - In a Dutch oven or large pot, saute the ground turkey for 5 minutes or until it is starting to brown. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to make sure the meat is broken up.
Step 2- Add the canned tomatoes, frozen peppers and onions and beans. Stir well.
Step 3 - Simmer for 30 to 40 minutes or until turkey is fully cooked and veggies are desired tenderness.
Step 4- Garnish with optional toppings as desired and serve.
Hint: It's easy to adjust the thickness of this chili. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes or add a bit less water. For a thinner consistency, add more water as needed.
Variations/ Substitutions
- Swap the Meat – Instead of ground turkey you can use ground chicken or ground beef.
- Make it Vegan – To make this vegan, eliminate the turkey and add more beans.
- Swap the Beans – Substitute white beans with black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans for a change in texture and flavor. You can also use a combination of different beans for a more varied chili.
- Use Fresh Vegetables – Use fresh bell peppers, onions, and even corn for a fresher taste. Add chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
Storage
To store Easy Turkey White Bean Chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate leftover chili and use within 3-4 days.
To freeze, divide the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to leave some room for expansion. Frozen chili can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator or defrost in the microwave. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Leftover chili is versatile and can be used in various ways: spoon it over baked potatoes, mix into pasta for a hearty sauce, or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. It also makes a flavorful addition to salads.
Cooking Tips
- Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the chili low in fat and high in protein.
- Using frozen pepper and onion strips saves time and effort, making this a true "no chop chili."
- Ensure your white beans are well-rinsed and drained to reduce excess sodium and improve texture.
- Add optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, and chopped green onions to customize each bowl to your taste.
- Adjust the chili powder amount based on your preference for heat. You can also add more diced tomatoes with chiles or a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- If you're feeding a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe is easy to double.
FAQ
Yes, this chili can be adapted for both. In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the turkey, then pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
To make the chili milder, use plain diced tomatoes instead of those with chiles and reduce the amount of chili powder. For more heat, increase the chili powder or add a splash of hot sauce.
The healthy turkey chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While this ground turkey chili is delicious enough to stand on it's own, I am a toppings girl and love to pile them on top of the chili before I dive in with my spoon. Some of my favorite toppings include:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Hot Sauce
- Sour Cream
- Chopped Green Onions
- Cilantro
- Diced Avocado or Easy Guacamole
- Pickled Onions
- Pickled Jalapenos
Turkey white bean chili can be enjoyed simply with cornbread casserole or cheesy beer bread and serve Mexican street corn and cabbage slaw on the side.
If you like this Ground Turkey Chili recipe, please leave a 5-star rating.
RECIPE
Easy Turkey White Bean Chili
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 16 ounces ground turkey I use a lean ground turkey
- 15 ounce can of diced tomatoes with chiles
- 1 16 ounce bag frozen pepper and onion strips
- 14 ounces can white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup water
- 3 Tablespoons chili powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings
- shredded cheddar cheese
- hot sauce
- sour cream
- chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat the olive oil on medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and saute for 5 minutes or until turkey is starting to brown. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to make sure the meat is broken up.
- Add the canned tomatoes, frozen peppers and onions and beans. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 30 to 40 minutes or until turkey is fully cooked and veggies are desired tenderness. Add extra water if necessary. Let the pot cook uncovered the last few minutes of cooking if you would like the chili thicker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste then serve in bowls with optional toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
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