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At the core of any great chili is its protein source, and in this recipe, ground turkey takes center stage. Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative to traditional beef or pork, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. It's rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it contains fewer calories and fat than its red meat counterparts, making it a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Veggie-Packed Turkey Chili

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of Veggie-Packed Turkey Chili, a hearty dish that blends lean ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices. Perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious, loaded with protein and micronutrients. Discover how to create layers of flavor and customize it to your liking, making it a satisfying option for any health-conscious foodie. Enjoy the comfort of homemade chili today!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup mushrooms, chopped

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 cups vegetable broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Shredded cheese and avocado slices, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Turkey: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    Sauté the Veggies: Once the turkey is cooked, add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

      Combine Ingredients: Stir in the drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato paste. Then add the vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.

        Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps to thicken the chili and allows the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

          Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If you prefer a spicier chili, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes.

            Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, and top with shredded cheese and avocado slices, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings