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High-Protein Turkey Chili for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Youssef Hb

High-Protein Turkey Chili

This nutrient-dense turkey chili is the ultimate comforting, one-pot solution for busy weeknights. Featuring lean ground turkey, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a robust blend of aromatic spices, this recipe achieves a perfect texture by mashing half of the kidney beans. It is a family-friendly, high-protein meal that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor, making it a reliable foundation for your favorite toppings. Perfect for active lifestyles or meal prep, this customizable dish balances hearty depth with simple, wholesome pantry staples.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 teaspoons Olive oil
  • 1 pound Ground turkey (93/7 lean to fat)
  • 1 Onion, chopped
  • 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
  • 28 ounces Crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 16 ounces Kidney beans, drained, rinsed, and mashed
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons Chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper

Method
 

  1. Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned throughout.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat the meat.
  6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
  7. Add the mashed kidney beans, which helps thicken the chili naturally.
  8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Substitute avocado oil for olive oil if preferred. For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.