Savory Turkey Chili Recipe

A Simple yet Savory Recipe

This easy-to-make turkey chili recipe is perfect for warming up on a cool day. Despite the long list of ingredients, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Just sauté the vegetables, add the spices, turkey, broth, and beans, and let it simmer for 30 minutes. The secret ingredient that adds depth and richness to the dish is a hint of dark chocolate.

Customize to Your Taste

If you like a little heat, add some extra jalapeños to spice things up. You can also make this chili ahead of time, as it only gets better with time. Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

Game Plan: Make Ahead and Refrigerate

This recipe makes 6-8 servings and can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate it in a container with a tight-fitting lid and reheat when you’re ready.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, medium dice
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and medium dice
• 3 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 pounds shredded, cooked turkey or chicken (about 6 cups)
• 4 cups (1 quart) chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can stewed or diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (do not drain)
• 1 (15-ounce) can small white beans, such as cannellini (do not drain)
• 1/4 cup small-dice pickled jalapeños
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 ounce bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 tablespoons fine- or medium-ground cornmeal (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat and Sauté: Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the vegetables have softened, about 5-8 minutes.
2. Add Spices and Turkey: Add the chili powder, thyme, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg, stir to combine, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the turkey or chicken and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
3. Simmer and Combine: Add the stock or broth, tomatoes and their juices, beans and their liquid, and jalapeños. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the flavors have melded, about 30 minutes.
4. Finishing Touches: Turn off the heat, stir in the cilantro, chocolate, and cornmeal (if using), and let sit for 10 minutes. Stir once more to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.