Easy Turkey Chili Recipe

Hey, I’m John Canel and today we’re making a hearty, delicious turkey chili, so let’s get started.

Ingredients & Prep

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4–8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 lb ground turkey (dark meat, not breast)
• 2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 2–3 stalks celery, sliced (optional)
• 3 cups cooked beans (kidney, black, or pinto; about 2 cans)
• ½–1½ cups chicken broth, as desired
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• Salt & pepper to taste

Spice Blend

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion; cook until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and chopped bell pepper; sauté until crisp-tender.
4. Brown the ground turkey, breaking it into small chunks.
5. Sprinkle in the spice blend; cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
6. Add diced tomatoes, beans, celery (if using), brown sugar, and broth to reach desired consistency.
7. Simmer uncovered 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
8. For a thicker chili, whisk 2–3 tablespoons cornstarch with a little water, stir in, and boil 1 minute.

Serving Suggestions

Top each bowl with sliced jalapeño, creamy avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!