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Hearty Turkey Chili

This comforting turkey chili is made by simmering lean ground turkey with crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and bell peppers, seasoned with smoked paprika and brightened with lime juice. The dish develops a rich, thick texture with a vibrant color and inviting aroma, perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping. It’s forgiving and easily customizable, making each bowl feel like a warm hug.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 red bell pepper bell pepper diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 lime lime juiced
  • fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Can opener
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering and fragrant, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Stir in the ground turkey, breaking it apart with the wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes, until it starts to brown and develop a bit of caramelization.
  4. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften and become slightly translucent, filling the kitchen with a fresh aroma.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the drained kidney beans along with the smoked paprika. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows flavors to meld and develop a rich, thick texture.
  7. Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  8. Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 10 minutes; this helps deepen the flavors and allows the texture to thicken slightly.
  9. Serve the turkey chili in bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Enjoy the warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper. This chili tastes even better the next day, so leftovers are highly recommended.