Low-Fat Turkey Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili made with lean ground turkey, beans, and tomatoes. This lighter version is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy meal that's ready in under an hour.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté the vegetables
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Brown the turkey and add spices
- b.Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it's no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
- c.Drain any excess fat if necessary, though 99% lean turkey should have very little.
- d.Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the chili
- b.Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, the rinsed kidney beans, and the chicken broth.
- c.Add the salt and black pepper. Stir everything together well.
- d.Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed.
- c.Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with optional toppings like non-fat Greek yogurt or fresh cilantro.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, let the chili simmer longer. The flavors will deepen and become more complex over time.
- 2Don't skip rinsing the canned beans. This removes excess sodium and starchy liquid.
- 3This chili is great for meal prep. It tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- 4To add more vegetables, consider adding a cup of corn or diced zucchini along with the beans.
- 5For a thicker chili, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 10 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- 6Adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño with the garlic.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the ground turkey with an extra can of black beans or pinto beans, or use 1.5 cups of cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in 1 cup of cooked quinoa during the last 10 minutes of simmering to boost the protein and fiber content.
quickQuick
Use a bag of frozen pre-chopped onions and peppers to cut down on prep time for a weeknight-friendly meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the chili powder to 1 tablespoon and ensure it's a mild variety. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese and tortilla chips on the side.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Lean Protein
Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Rich in Fiber
Kidney beans provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and keeps you feeling full longer.
Packed with Vitamins
Tomatoes and bell peppers are rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, which support immune function and overall health.
Supports Weight Management
The combination of high protein and high fiber in a low-calorie dish makes this chili a perfect meal for weight loss and healthy eating.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this chili is very healthy. It's high in lean protein from the turkey, rich in fiber from the beans, and packed with vitamins from the tomatoes and peppers. Using 99% lean turkey and low-sodium broth makes it a great choice for a heart-healthy or weight-loss diet.