Are you craving a hearty, healthy, and delicious dinner that's also quick to make? Look no further! This turkey chili recipe, bursting with flavor and surprisingly easy to prepare, is perfect for busy weeknights. Forget those heavy, bean-laden chilis; this version is lighter, packed with lean protein, and utterly satisfying. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious dish the whole family will love. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's also a great option for anyone looking for the best recipes without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Brown the Turkey: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Chili: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add the chicken broth.
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Cook to Perfection: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Turkey Chili:
- Don't overcook the turkey: Overcooked turkey can become dry. Cook it until it's browned and cooked through, but not tough.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner. It's a perfect example of meal prepping for healthy eating.
- Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer it uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn.
- Use different types of meat: Ground beef or chicken can be substituted for the ground turkey.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a few chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals, making it an excellent addition to your collection of food recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!