This turkey white bean chili recipe is hearty, healthy, simple and quick to make, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich taste and nutritious ingredients, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious chili in no time.
• Hearty & Healthy: Packed with lean turkey and fiber-rich beans, this chili is not only filling but also good for you.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with various toppings like avocado or cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knives
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the chili evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

This turkey white bean chili recipe is hearty, healthy, simple and quick to make, and packed with flavor. Makes great leftovers!

For the Chili Base

• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds extra lean ground turkey
• 1 (28 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Beans

• 2 (4 fluid ounce) cans diced green chilies
• 2 (14 fluid ounce) cans white kidney (cannellini) beans (drained)

For Serving

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla strips, cilantro, sour cream

How to Make Turkey White Bean Chili

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so they are ready to go when you start cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the olive oil to a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook it until it turns white, which should take about 5 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it up while stirring periodically.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the diced tomatoes along with their juices and stir in all remaining ingredients except for sour cream and salt & pepper.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow the chili to come to a gentle bubble then reduce heat so it’s simmering lightly. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the sour cream until fully combined. Season with salt & pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve immediately either plain or topped with your choice of extras!

How to Serve Turkey White Bean Chili

Turkey white bean chili is not just delicious on its own; it can be enhanced with various toppings and sides to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – Add a handful of your favorite cheese for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Avocado – Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and a fresh taste that complements the chili.
• Tortilla Strips – Crunchy strips provide a delightful contrast to the smooth chili, adding texture with each bite.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro offers a burst of flavor and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spice and adds a creamy element.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of chili.
• Crusty Baguette – Slice a baguette for dipping or spreading, adding an irresistible crunch to your meal.

How to Perfect Turkey White Bean Chili

Achieving the perfect turkey white bean chili involves small tweaks that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh vegetables and spices for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Tailor the heat by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.
• Let it Simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer develops richer flavors, so don’t rush this step.
• Experiment with Beans – Try mixing different beans for varied textures and tastes, such as navy or great northern beans.
• Add More Veggies – Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey White Bean Chili

Complement your turkey white bean chili with delicious side dishes that enhance the meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread – Sweet and buttery, this bread is perfect for soaking up the chili.
2. Guacamole – Creamy and zesty, guacamole adds a refreshing touch that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the chili.
3. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a crisp texture and balances the richness of the chili.
4. Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a hearty base that works well under a scoop of chili.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition while enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
6. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be used for dipping into the chili or enjoyed alongside it for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making turkey white bean chili is easy, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using low-quality meat: Always opt for extra lean ground turkey to ensure your chili is flavorful and not greasy.
• Skipping spices: Chili relies on spices for its signature flavor. Don’t skip or skimp on chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
• Not simmering long enough: Allowing the chili to simmer helps blend the flavors. Make sure you let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pot: Cooking too much at once can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Consider adding shredded cheese, avocado, or cilantro for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the chili cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Turkey White Bean Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating Turkey White Bean Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat on high in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Turkey White Bean Chili?

Turkey white bean chili is a hearty dish made from ground turkey, white beans, and various spices simmered together for rich flavor.

How can I customize my Turkey White Bean Chili?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, adjust spice levels, or use different beans based on your preference.

Can I use another type of meat in this recipe?

Yes! Ground beef or ground chicken can be great alternatives if you want something different from turkey.

How do I make Turkey White Bean Chili spicier?

Add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

This turkey white bean chili is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or your favorite toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl that makes wonderful leftovers!

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Turkey White Bean Chili

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 8

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Description

Enjoy a hearty Turkey White Bean Chili that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Perfect for any occasion—try it today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds extra lean ground turkey
• 1 (28 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 (4 fluid ounce) cans diced green chilies
• 2 (14 fluid ounce) cans white kidney (cannellini) beans (drained)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla strips, cilantro

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned (about 5 minutes), breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), white beans, green chilies, and spices. Mix well.
5. Bring to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize your chili by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Adjust spice levels according to your taste preference by varying the amount of chili powder used.