I still remember the first time I made this Turkey And Bean Chili Recipe — the way the aroma filled my kitchen made my mouth water before I’d even finished cooking. I wasn’t sure about swapping beef for turkey, but the bold flavors and hearty beans convinced me this version was a keeper.
I tweaked it a bit, added my favorite toppings, and suddenly it became a weekly staple in my house. Every spoonful warms the soul and satisfies like a cozy hug in a bowl. Trust me, you’re going to love this chili as much as I do!
If you enjoy comforting baked dishes, you might also love trying the Quick Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe for another hearty family meal or Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad Recipe is another great option.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this hearty turkey and bean chili. Each ingredient plays an important role in building rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- 16 oz ground turkey – Lean but flavorful, turkey keeps the chili hearty without making it greasy. I prefer 93% lean for the perfect balance of moisture and richness.
- 16 oz crushed tomatoes – Forms the bold, slightly tangy base of the chili. Choose good-quality canned tomatoes for deeper flavor.
- 15½ oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed – These add texture, fiber, and protein. Rinsing removes excess sodium and improves taste.
- 3 oz sour cream – Used for topping; adds creamy contrast to the smoky chili. Full-fat gives the richest result.
- 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese – Freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better than pre-shredded varieties.
- 3 Tbsp chipotle pesto – Brings smoky heat and depth. Adjust quantity depending on your spice preference.
- 4 tsp chicken broth concentrate – Enhances savory flavor without watering down the chili.
- 2 Tbsp chile and cumin rub – The backbone of classic chili flavor. Cumin adds warmth, while chile powder builds body.
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic and parsley – Fresh garlic adds aroma and sharpness; parsley balances the richness.
- 1 oz tortilla strips – Adds crunch and texture contrast right before serving.
Note: This recipe serves 4 generous portions.
Variations
This turkey and bean chili recipe is incredibly flexible. You can easily adjust it to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap sour cream for dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based shredded cheese.
- Extra Protein Boost: Add black beans or pinto beans for more texture and fiber.
- Spicier Version: Stir in diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the beans slightly and add chopped zucchini or cauliflower.
- Vegetable-Loaded Chili: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.
- Smokier Flavor: Add a small splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it takes to make this comforting chili:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35–45 minutes
- Total Time: About 50–55 minutes
This makes it perfect for busy weeknights while still tasting like it simmered all day.
Equipment You Need
You don’t need anything fancy — just a few kitchen basics:
- Large oven-safe baking dish or Dutch oven – For cooking and simmering the chili evenly.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the sour cream and chipotle pesto topping.
- Colander – For draining and rinsing beans properly.
- Measuring spoons – Ensures the spice balance is just right.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For breaking apart and stirring the turkey.
- Oven mitts – Essential for safe handling of hot cookware.
How to Make Turkey & Bean Chili Recipe?
This turkey and bean chili recipe comes together in simple steps. Each stage builds flavor and creates a perfectly balanced dish.
Brown the Turkey
Start by preheating your oven if using an oven-safe method. Add the ground turkey to your baking dish or Dutch oven and break it into small chunks. Cook until it begins to brown and no pink remains. Browning is essential because it creates deeper flavor. I always make sure the turkey gets a little color instead of just steaming it.
Add the Aromatics and Spices
Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the minced garlic, chile and cumin rub, and chicken broth concentrate. Mix well so the spices evenly coat the turkey. This step releases the aromas and infuses the meat with bold flavor. The cumin and chile mixture forms the signature chili taste.
Build the Chili Base
Add crushed tomatoes and rinsed kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed. The tomatoes create the thick, rich base, while the beans provide heartiness and texture. If needed, add a small splash of water to loosen the mixture slightly.
Simmer and Develop Flavor
Cover the dish and let the chili bake or simmer for about 25–30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. During this time, the spices deepen and the chili thickens. I always check halfway through and give it a gentle stir.
Prepare the Chipotle Crema
While the chili cooks, combine sour cream and chipotle pesto in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. This topping adds a smoky, slightly spicy finish that balances the tomato richness perfectly.
Garnish and Serve
Once the chili is hot and bubbly, remove it from the oven or stovetop. Spoon into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of chipotle crema, and crunchy tortilla strips. The toppings add creaminess and crunch, turning a simple chili into something restaurant-worthy.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making this recipe several times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even more delicious:
- I always brown the turkey properly before adding liquids — it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- I let the chili sit for 5–10 minutes before serving; the flavors settle and thicken beautifully.
- I sometimes add a small pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
- I taste and adjust salt at the very end instead of the beginning.
- I grate my own cheddar cheese because it melts smoother and tastes fresher.
- If I want a thicker chili, I mash a small portion of the beans before stirring them in.
How to Serve Turkey & Bean Chili Recipe?
Serving this chili can be just as fun as cooking it. I love presenting it in deep bowls to keep it warm longer. Top it with a swirl of chipotle crema, a handful of freshly shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of tortilla strips for crunch.
For extra color, add chopped cilantro or thinly sliced green onions. Serve alongside warm cornbread, crusty bread, or even over steamed rice for a heartier meal. You can also serve it in bread bowls for a cozy dinner party option.
If entertaining guests, set up a chili bar with toppings like diced avocado, jalapeños, extra cheese, and lime wedges so everyone can customize their bowl.
Nutritional Information
This turkey and bean chili recipe is both satisfying and balanced. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~500
- Protein: ~33g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~28g
It’s packed with lean protein from turkey and fiber-rich beans, making it filling without feeling overly heavy.
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Storing
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time.
Freezing
This chili freezes extremely well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the chili has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave individual servings in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This turkey and bean chili recipe truly checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s a favorite in my kitchen:
- Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal prep make it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty Yet Lean – Ground turkey keeps it lighter than traditional beef chili without sacrificing flavor.
- Family-Friendly – Mild spice level makes it great for both adults and kids.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the heat, toppings, and ingredients to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep – It stores and freezes beautifully, making future meals effortless.
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and reliable dinner option, this turkey and bean chili recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s cozy, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make — and once you try it, I promise it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation too.
