Save
This healthy turkey chili hits the mark when you want a cozy, nourishing dinner that comes together without fuss. It balances lean protein with vibrant spices and the comforting heft of beans making it perfect for chilly evenings or weekend meal prep.
I first made this after hunting for a high protein, low fat chili recipe and was surprised how much the spices and masa harina elevated a seemingly simple turkey chili. It quickly became a household favorite on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: to sauté vegetables and build a flavorful base choose a good quality extra virgin for best aroma
- Onion and green bell pepper: add sweetness and freshness focus on firm vegetables with bright skins
- Garlic: offers a pungent depth mince fresh cloves for best impact
- Extra lean ground turkey: is a healthy swap for beef look for packages labeled 97 to 99 percent white meat only
- Chili powder: blends smoky and spicy notes select one without added salt for control
- Ground cumin: gives that earthy warmth pick a fresh jar for maximum aroma
- Dried oregano: lends herbal brightness a staple for chili and Mexican dishes
- Paprika: adds mild smokiness opt for smoked paprika if you like more depth
- Onion powder: enhances savory character best used alongside fresh onion
- Ground cloves: gives a surprising sweet hint use sparingly to avoid overpowering
- Cayenne pepper: is optional for extra heat adjust to your heat tolerance
- Chicken bouillon: boosts umami flavor choose low sodium if preferred
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles: bring acidity and mild heat pick a name brand you trust
- Crushed tomatoes: create a rustic sauce texture look for no added sugar versions
- Chili beans: like kidney or pinto provide body and fiber drain and rinse canned beans for the best results
- Chicken broth: thins and rounds the chili go for low sodium to better control seasoning
- Masa harina: thickens the chili and adds subtle corn flavor use authentic finely ground corn flour
- Salt and pepper: to taste depending on dietary needs and bouillon salt content
- For Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, diced onion, sliced avocado, tortilla chips, and lime wedges offer contrast in texture and flavor
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven until shimmering. Add chopped onion and green bell pepper and cook for about 4 minutes or until onions are soft and translucent. This sweats the vegetables unlocking their sweetness. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook The Turkey:
- Add the ground turkey to the pot breaking it up with a spatula or spoon. Cook thoroughly stirring occasionally until no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes. This ensures a crumbly texture throughout the stew and prevents clumps.
- Add Spices And Liquids:
- Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, paprika, onion powder, ground cloves, cayenne if using, and chicken bouillon. Stir well to coat the meat evenly, releasing the spice aromas. Then add the diced tomatoes with green chiles and crushed tomatoes along with chili beans. Pour in one cup of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce heat to low for flavor melding. Cover and cook for 20 minutes stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Thicken With Masa Harina:
- In a small bowl, combine masa harina with remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth to form a slurry. Stir this into the simmering chili and continue cooking uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes stirring frequently to prevent lumps and ensure thickening. If the chili gets too thick, add more broth a little at a time.
- Season And Serve:
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, diced onions, slices of avocado, tortilla chips, and lime wedges as desired for a fresh and colorful finish.
I love how the masa harina adds a subtle corn flavor and velvety texture helping this chili stand apart from the average weeknight stew. It became a weekly ritual to share this with my family, especially on cold winter evenings when everyone wanted something hearty but not heavy.
Storage tips
Store leftover chili in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth to loosen the texture if needed. This chili also freezes beautifully in portioned containers and thaws quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Ingredient swaps
Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or lean ground beef for different flavor profiles. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian but add extra umami seasonings such as smoked paprika or soy sauce to boost depth. Swap chili beans for black beans or kidney beans depending on preference.
Serving ideas
Serve this chili with warm cornbread or over steamed rice for a heartier meal. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances the spices. Fresh lime squeezed over the top brightens the flavors wonderfully. Add a side salad of chopped tomatoes and avocado for a fresh crunch.
This chili is a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and vibrant spices making it both nourishing and comforting.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What cuts of turkey work best for this chili?
Extra lean ground turkey (97%-99% white meat) provides the best texture and flavor without excess fat.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, reduce or omit cayenne pepper and choose mild diced tomatoes to keep the chili milder.
- → What’s the purpose of masa harina in the chili?
Masa harina thickens the chili and gives it a subtle corn flavor, adding richness and body.
- → How can I make the chili more hearty?
Adding extra beans or increasing the masa harina slightly will give a thicker, heartier texture.
- → What toppings complement this turkey chili?
Shredded cheddar, cilantro, diced onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips, and lime wedges enhance the flavors and add texture.
- → Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, pinto or kidney beans work well alone or combined, offering varied texture and taste.