One-Pot Turkey Chili
This One-Pot Turkey Chili is the perfect combination of affordable, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Lean ground turkey simmers with bell peppers, jalapeño, Rotel, pinto chili beans, and black beans in a warm, smoky blend of spices.
A pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar rounds everything out, and it all comes together in one pot in about 40 minutes. Pile on your favorite toppings and dinner is done.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Turkey Chili
- One pot: fewer dishes and big flavor.
- Lighter but hearty: lean turkey and lots of beans and veggies.
- Budget friendly: mostly canned goods and pantry spices.
- Meal prep star: even better the next day.
One-Pot Turkey Chili Ingredients
Ground Turkey
Lean and mild, it soaks up all the spices.
Tomatoes
Petite diced tomatoes plus Rotel with green chilies for a little heat.
Beans
Bush’s Mild Pinto Chili Beans and black beans make it thick and filling.
Peppers, Onion and Garlic
Red and orange bell peppers, jalapeño, onion, and garlic.
Spices
Chili powder, cumin, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon.
Good to Know: This chili is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free before toppings. Check your canned goods if you need certified gluten-free.
How to Make One-Pot Turkey Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add the onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño and sauté until softened.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Add the garlic and ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Simmer
Add the Rotel, pinto chili beans, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Simmer 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Bloom the spices. Cooking them with the turkey for a minute deepens the flavor.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon. It adds warmth, not a dessert flavor.
- Seed the jalapeño. Remove the seeds for a milder chili.
- Simmer longer if you can. More time means more flavor.
Make It Your Own
- Different meat: Use ground beef or chicken.
- Spicier: Add chipotle in adobo or cayenne.
- Slow cooker: Brown the turkey, then cook on low for 6 hours.
- Veggie boost: Add corn or diced zucchini.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: This chili is perfect for meal prep. Portion into containers with toppings on the side for easy lunches all week.
What to Serve With One-Pot Turkey Chili
Top with shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, and plain Greek yogurt. Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a baked potato, with an ice-cold Coca-Cola on the side.
Storing and Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if thick.
What People Ask About One-Pot Turkey Chili
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes. Ground beef, chicken, or pork all work.
Is turkey chili healthy?
It is a lean, high-protein, fiber-rich option.
How do I thicken turkey chili?
Simmer it uncovered longer or mash some of the beans.
Can I freeze turkey chili?
Yes. It freezes well for up to 3 months.
One-Pot Turkey Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and ground turkey. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, Bush’s Mild Pinto Chili Beans, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Stir to combine.
- Let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld.
- Serve with toppings of choice and an ice-cold Coca-Cola.
Nutrition
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before dicing.
- Use plain Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream for topping.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
