Turkey White Bean Chili

This turkey white bean chili recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it features tender ground turkey and creamy white beans, making it both filling and nutritious. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this turkey white bean chili is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: A blend of spices including chili powder and smoked paprika creates a robust flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean turkey and fiber-rich beans, this dish is a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day—ideal for meal prep!
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like avocado or shredded cheese to suit everyone’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the chili evenly without splatter.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A good quality knife ensures clean cuts for faster prep time.

Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Turkey White Bean Chili

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Gather all ingredients to make cooking easier.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a large pot over medium-high heat:
1. Add the olive oil and chopped onion.
2. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey:
1. Cook until it turns white, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
2. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in:
1. The diced tomatoes along with their juices.
2. All remaining spices and ingredients except for sour cream and salt & pepper.
3. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Once bubbling:
1. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
2. Let cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in sour cream:
1. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
2. Serve immediately with your choice of optional toppings.

Enjoy your flavorful turkey white bean chili!

How to Serve Turkey White Bean Chili

Serving Turkey White Bean Chili is an opportunity to get creative and elevate your dish. Whether you prefer a simple bowl or a fully loaded plate, there are many ways to enjoy this hearty meal.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese enhances the creaminess and adds rich flavor.
• Avocado: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a fresh and vibrant taste that complements the chili.

Crunchy Additions

• Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips add a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a comforting, sweet addition.
• Crackers: Simple crackers can be crumbled on top for added texture.

Cool Enhancements

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices with its coolness.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili for a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Turkey White Bean Chili

Perfecting your Turkey White Bean Chili can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs boost flavor significantly compared to dried options.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Tailor the heat by adding more chili powder or incorporating jalapeños based on your preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer for 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Broths: Substitute vegetable broth for water when cooking for added depth of flavor.
• Add Beans at Different Times: Incorporate some beans early and reserve others for later. This adds varied textures in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey White Bean Chili

The right side dishes can complement Turkey White Bean Chili perfectly, offering balanced flavors and textures. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory chili, enhancing its comforting nature.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens provides freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the chili.
3. Rice: Serving the chili over rice creates a filling meal that soaks up all the flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add a delicious touch and extra nutrients to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with quinoa or rice for a nutritious side that matches well with the chili’s profile.
6. Guacamole and Chips: A classic pairing that offers both flavor and texture, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making turkey white bean chili can be a delight, but certain mistakes can affect the final dish’s quality. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to a flat flavor. Always start by cooking these aromatics to bring out their sweetness.

• Overcooking the Turkey: Cooking the turkey too long can make it dry. Aim for just until it’s no longer pink, as it will continue cooking in the chili.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland chili. Taste your dish during cooking and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed for the best flavor.

• Using Old Spices: Old spices lose their potency and can diminish your chili’s flavor. Check expiration dates and replace any stale spices before cooking.

• Not Letting It Simmer: Rushing the simmering process doesn’t allow flavors to meld properly. A good simmer for 15-20 minutes enhances taste and texture.

• Skipping Toppings: Toppings like avocado or cheese add texture and richness. Don’t skip them; they elevate the overall experience of your turkey white bean chili.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Turkey White Bean Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey White Bean Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat on low-medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about turkey white bean chili that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of beans in Turkey White Bean Chili?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like great northern or pinto beans if you prefer a different texture or flavor profile.

How spicy is Turkey White Bean Chili?

The spice level depends on the type of chili powder you use. Adjust it according to your preference by adding more or less as desired.

Can I make Turkey White Bean Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it ahead allows flavors to develop even more. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

What toppings go well with Turkey White Bean Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced avocado, tortilla strips, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess!

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This turkey white bean chili is packed with protein from turkey and fiber from beans, making it a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

This turkey white bean chili is not only hearty and healthy but also quick to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices to suit your taste preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Turkey White Bean Chili

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Savor the comforting warmth of this Turkey White Bean Chili, a wholesome and robust dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining lean ground turkey with creamy white beans and a medley of spices, this chili is not only filling but also nutritious. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful meal that will satisfy your family or guests. The best part? It makes fantastic leftovers that taste even better the next day! Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado or shredded cheese for a personalized touch.

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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 (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 by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground turkey to the pot; cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, spices, and drained beans; mix well.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
6. Stir in sour cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with desired toppings.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg