Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this white turkey chili comes together quickly for a hassle-free meal.
- Healthy and Hearty: Packed with lean protein from turkey and fiber from white beans, this chili is both nutritious and filling.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a warm, satisfying dish perfect for any time of year.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings to make this recipe your own.
- Versatile: Great for meal prep, freezing, or serving a crowd, this chili is a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
- Ground turkey: Opt for 93% lean to keep the chili healthy without sacrificing taste.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the chili.
- Green chilies: Adds a mild heat and unique flavor; choose mild or hot based on your preference.
- Spices: Cumin, oregano, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper create a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Chicken broth: Use low-sodium to control the saltiness of the chili.
- White beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work well; they add creaminess and nutrition.
- Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture; you can use fresh corn when in season.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance.
- Sour cream, cilantro, and lime: Optional toppings that enhance the flavor and presentation.
For substitutions, consider using ground chicken instead of turkey or black beans in place of white beans. If you’re avoiding dairy, skip the sour cream or use a non-dairy alternative.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Browning the Turkey: Ensure the turkey is well-browned for maximum flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pot to allow proper browning.
- Spice Blooming: Cook the spices with the aromatics for a minute or two to enhance their flavors before adding liquid.
- Simmering: Let the chili simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld without overcooking the ingredients.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the chili by adding more broth if needed. The chili should be hearty but not overly thick.
- Visual Cues: Look for the chili to thicken slightly and the flavors to deepen as a sign it’s ready.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for a spicier chili.
- Creamy Version: Blend half of the beans before adding them to the chili for a creamier texture.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese just before serving for added richness.
- Slow Cooker Method: Brown the turkey and sauté the aromatics, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.
- Autumn Twist: Include diced butternut squash or sweet potato for a seasonal variation.
- Herbaceous Touch: Add fresh chopped parsley or oregano at the end for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Cornbread: Serve alongside warm cornbread for a classic pairing.
- Over Rice: Spoon the chili over cooked rice for a more substantial meal.
- With Tortilla Chips: Use as a dip with tortilla chips for a casual gathering.
- Topped with Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy, rich topping.
- In a Bread Bowl: Serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and filling presentation.
- With a Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chili up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to thin the chili.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely, you can freeze this chili for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield similar results.
Q: What can I use instead of white beans?
You can use black beans or pinto beans if you prefer, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Q: How can I make this chili spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the chili for more heat.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the turkey and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Q: What are some good toppings for this chili?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges.
Q: How do I know when the chili is done?
The chili is ready when it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together, typically after simmering for 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion
This white turkey chili recipe is a perfect example of a comforting, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and customize to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at your next gathering, this chili is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious white turkey chili!
White Turkey Chili
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 4 oz can green chilies diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 2 15 oz cans white beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream optional, for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for serving
- 1 lime cut into wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the green chilies, cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to become fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the white beans and frozen corn, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the chili is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the white turkey chili hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.