Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal to warm up on a chilly night? Look no further than turkey chili! This classic comfort food can be made in a variety of ways, from traditional beef-based recipes to creative twists featuring turkey as the main ingredient. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering spicy turkey chili recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic chili with beans to unique variations like pumpkin and sweet potato, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with a range of heat levels to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find a recipe that suits your taste buds. So grab your apron, fire up the stove (or slow cooker), and get ready to cozy up with a warm and satisfying bowl of turkey chili.
Classic Turkey Chili with Beans
This hearty turkey chili recipe is a comforting twist on the classic beef version. Made with ground turkey, beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner, this slow cooker turkey chili is an easy and flavorful option that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked turkey, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water to the slow cooker.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
White Turkey Chili with Green Chilies
This creamy and spicy chili is a perfect twist on traditional turkey chili. With the added kick of green chilies, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) great northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 green chilies, diced (depending on desired heat level)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, and green chilies to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for at least 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
This hearty chili combines the smokiness of chipotles with the richness of ground turkey, creating a bold and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With a blend of spices and aromatics, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Turkey Chili
A warm and comforting blend of fall flavors, this Pumpkin Turkey Chili is perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly outdoor gathering. This recipe combines the richness of turkey with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of ground turkey and spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. This dish is also packed with nutrients, including fiber-rich sweet potatoes, lean protein from turkey, and antioxidants from bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes and kidney beans. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Bean Turkey Chili
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This flavorful and nutritious chili is packed with three types of beans, tender turkey, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Quinoa Turkey Chili
This Quinoa Turkey Chili recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chili recipes. The addition of quinoa adds protein and fiber, making it a great option for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked quinoa and chicken broth to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto Turkey Chili with Avocado
This recipe combines the comfort of chili with the creaminess of avocado, all while staying within keto guidelines. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the diced avocado just before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Get ready to warm up with this easy-to-make Instant Pot Turkey Chili recipe! This flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a busy day when you need a nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Mango Turkey Chili
This flavorful chili recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of chipotle peppers and tender turkey. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a unique twist on traditional chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup mango puree
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, chipotle pepper, and mango puree.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Turkey Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey chili with the added bonus of black beans and corn, making it a perfect meal for any time of year. With its rich and slightly sweet flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in black beans, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Chili with Dark Chocolate
This unique recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey chili with the deep richness of dark chocolate, creating a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add dark chocolate chips. Simmer 10 minutes or until flavors meld.
6. Stir in beef broth. Simmer an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Turkey Chili
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this twist on traditional chili! This BBQ turkey chili combines the richness of slow-cooked turkey with the tanginess of BBQ sauce and the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and BBQ sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buffalo Turkey Chili
A spicy twist on classic turkey chili, this Buffalo version combines the bold flavors of hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles with tender turkey and hearty beans. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, and Frank’s RedHot sauce. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Top with crumbled blue cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paleo Turkey Chili
This recipe is a twist on traditional chili, using ground turkey instead of beef and skipping the beans to make it Paleo-friendly. It’s a perfect comfort food for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or satisfying lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups turkey chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the turkey chili and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Turkey Chili Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the best of both worlds – juicy turkey chili and crispy nachos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook turkey chili according to package instructions.
3. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Spoon turkey chili over the chips, followed by shredded cheese and cilantro.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Top with sliced jalapeños and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Chili Stuffed Peppers
Transform traditional stuffed peppers into a hearty and flavorful meal with this twist! Tender bell peppers filled with a savory turkey chili mixture make for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut tops off peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey Chili Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of turkey chili, cornbread, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook turkey, onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up turkey with spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked turkey mixture with diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and cornbread mix.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg; add to turkey mixture.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 delicious and spicy turkey chili recipes, perfect for a chilly night. From classic bean-filled chili to smoky chipotle and sweet potato variations, there’s something for everyone. Try out the slow cooker option or whip up a quick Instant Pot recipe. For those watching their carbs, try one of the keto or paleo options. And don’t forget the fun twists like loaded nachos and stuffed peppers. Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky, spicy, or sweet, there’s a turkey chili recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
