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–+ servings

The Ultimate White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe

Lisa Street
As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, there's nothing better than a warm bowl of chili to comfort the soul. But let’s be real—chili isn’t just for winter nights. You can relish a good chili any time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 330 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot, Cup

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds lean ground turkey 93% lean
  • Olive oil cooking spray
  • 4 15.5-ounce cans cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 small yellow onions finely chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 4.5-ounce can diced mild green chilies
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ tablespoon dried oregano
  • ½ tablespoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder adjusted to taste
  • ½ to 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes according to preference
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Toppings:

  • Thinly sliced jalapeños
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Diced ripe avocado
  • Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Spray it lightly with olive oil cooking spray. Toss in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent—this fragrant base will set the tone for your chili.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

  • Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, stirring until it’s thoroughly cooked and browned. This may take about 7-10 minutes.

Step 3: Spice It Up

  • Once the turkey is browned, stir in the salt, dried oregano, cumin, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. This step is vital because it allows the spices to bloom in the heat, releasing their full flavor potential.

Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Broth

  • Add the drained white beans and the can of diced green chilies. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that all ingredients are well mixed. Let it come to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

  • Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

  • Just before serving, stir in the lime juice and smoked paprika. This brightens up the chili and adds a subtle complexity.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Ladle your chili into bowls and top it with your favorite garnishes. I recommend a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a few slices of jalapeño for a kick!

Notes

  • Adjust Spiciness: If you're not a fan of heat, start with just ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. You can always add more later!
  • Future Freezer Meal: This chili freezes well. Prepare it in advance and store portions in airtight containers for easy meals down the road.
  • Beans: Feel free to mix in other types of beans such as great northern or chickpeas if white beans are not available.
  • Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
  • Slow Cooker Version: You can make this chili in a slow cooker by sautéing the turkey and onions first, then adding all other ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 28gFat: 8gFiber: 9g
Keyword he Ultimate White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe
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