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Cozy Turkey Chili with Black Beans

turkey chili with black beans - featured image

A quick and easy hearty turkey chili with black beans, perfect for cozy comfort food cravings. This recipe balances flavor, texture, and ease, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: finely chop the onion, dice the green bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the canned black beans. This should take about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Push the veggies to the side and add the ground turkey. Break it up with your spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes, ensuring the turkey is nicely browned.
  5. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their aroma.
  6. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  7. Gently fold in the rinsed black beans. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  8. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired.
  10. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheddar, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

For thicker chili, reduce broth slightly or add more tomato paste. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove lid for last 5 minutes to thicken if desired. Can be adapted for slow cooker by browning turkey and veggies first, then cooking on low for 4-6 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, black beans, comfort food, easy chili recipe, healthy chili, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chili