| Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Yield: 6 servings |
January is the month of the “Healthy Reset,” but that doesn’t mean you have to survive on salads alone. This Healthy Turkey Chili is proof that you can have a meal that feels like a warm hug while still hitting all your nutritional goals. It’s thick, savory, and packed with lean protein and fiber to keep you full for hours.
This is a true one-pot meal designed for busy people. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a budget-friendly meal prep for the week ahead, this chili delivers. Because the flavors deepen as they sit, this is one of those rare dishes that actually tastes better on Tuesday and Wednesday than it does on Sunday night.
Why Ground Turkey is a New Year Staple
Switching from ground beef to ground turkey is one of the easiest ways to lower your saturated fat intake without sacrificing volume. When seasoned correctly with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, turkey absorbs all those classic “chili” flavors beautifully. Combined with kidney beans and black beans, this becomes a powerhouse of plant-based fiber and lean animal protein.
Ingredients & Quantities
- 1 lb Lean Ground Turkey (93% lean)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 large Yellow Onion, diced
- 1 Bell Pepper (any color), diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons Chili Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) Diced Tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (15 oz) Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup Frozen Corn (optional, for sweetness and crunch)
- 1 cup Chicken or Beef Broth (low sodium)
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the turkey is browned and the onion is translucent (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced bell pepper and garlic. Cook for 2 more minutes until the pepper begins to soften.
- Bloom the Spices: Add the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir constantly for 1 minute. This “blooms” the spices in the residual heat and oil, significantly deepening the flavor of the chili.
- Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and kidney beans. If using frozen corn, add it now. Stir well to combine.
- Cook: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes. (If you have more time, let it simmer for 30–45 minutes for even deeper flavor).
- Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite healthy garnishes like Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream), sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: This chili is incredibly freezer-friendly. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- The “Thickener” Trick: If you prefer an extra-thick chili, take 1/2 cup of the beans and mash them with a fork before adding them to the pot. The starch will naturally thicken the sauce as it simmers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the turkey and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
How do I make it spicier?
Add a diced jalapeño in Step 2 or a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper in Step 3.
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely. Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
This Healthy Turkey Chili is a “Sunday Reset” essential. It’s a simple, honest, and high-protein meal that makes eating well feel like a luxury rather than a chore.
